Armadillidium nasatum

Budde-Lund, 1885

Nosy Pill Woodlouse

Armadillidium nasatum is a large to Western Europe, particularly Britain, that has been to North America and other regions. It reaches up to 21 mm in length and is distinguished from by a rectangular protrusion ("nose") at the of the and a rounded tail tip with incurved sides. Unlike some relatives, it does not form a complete ball when enrolled. The species exhibits tendencies and prefers drier than most woodlice.

Armadillidium nasatum by (c) Katja Schulz, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Katja Schulz. Used under a CC-BY license.Armadillidium nasatum by (c) Cole Shoemaker, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Cole Shoemaker. Used under a CC-BY license.Armadillidium nasatum by (c) Kathy Richardson, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Kathy Richardson. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Armadillidium nasatum: /ˌɑːr.mə.dɪˈlɪd.i.əm næˈseɪ.təm/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Distinguished from Armadillidium vulgare by the prominent rectangular "nose" protrusion at the and the rounded, incurved tail () tip; A. vulgare has a smaller, flat tail. Unlike A. depressum, does not form a complete ball when enrolled. Dark grey coloration similar to A. vulgare; pale longitudinal stripes occasionally present but variable and non-diagnostic.

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Habitat

Occupies drier microhabitats than most . ; frequently found in non-inhabited areas including railway and industrial waste ground. Shelters under stones and wood.

Distribution

to Western Europe, particularly Britain ( in southern England, sporadic in Ireland). to North America and other parts of Europe.

Behavior

Exhibits and shelter-seeking responses when exposed to fluorescent and ultraviolet light; demonstrates negative /photophobia in laboratory conditions.

Human Relevance

associated with human-modified environments; beyond range.

Similar Taxa

  • Armadillidium vulgareSimilar dark grey coloration and general appearance, but distinguished by lack of "nose" protrusion and flat (not rounded/incurved) tail tip
  • Armadillidium depressumAlso does not form complete ball when enrolled, but lacks the distinctive "nose" and has different tail

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Sources and further reading