Peltidae

Common Name

Sowbugs and Pillbugs

Overview

Peltidae is a family of terrestrial crustaceans within the order Isopoda. These creatures are often referred to as sowbugs or pillbugs and are notable for their segmented exoskeletons and ability to roll into a ball (a behavior more common in pillbugs, which are from the closely related family Armadillidiidae).

Taxonomy

Key Characteristics

  • Segmented, flat bodies with a rigid exoskeleton
  • Seven pairs of legs
  • Antennae used for sensing the environment
  • Ability to roll into a ball in certain species
  • Color ranges from gray and brown to occasionally more vivid hues

Life Cycle

  • Egg: Laid in a brood pouch on the female's underside
  • Juvenile: Miniature versions of adults, emerging after hatching
  • Adult: Reach maturity in several months and can live up to two years

Behavior and Ecology

  • Mostly nocturnal, avoiding light
  • Prefer moist environments like leaf litter and soil
  • Detritivores, feeding on decaying plant material
  • Play a role in soil health by breaking down organic matter

Notable Species

  • Peltis ferruginea : One of the more studied species within this family, known for its rust-colored exoskeleton

Conservation

  • Generally not of conservation concern due to their abundance and widespread distribution
  • Play an ecological role in nutrient cycling

Significance to Humans

  • Contribute to soil fertility and the decomposition process
  • Sometimes considered pests in gardens due to their occasional feeding on young plant shoots

Fun Facts

  • These creatures can survive in dry conditions for several days by conserving moisture in their bodies.
  • Some can release a defensive odor to deter predators.
  • They are commonly known as “roly-polies” in North America due to their ability to roll up into a ball when threatened.
  • Peltidae can absorb water vapor directly through their exoskeleton.