Porcellionidae
Porcellionidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Crustacea
- Class: Malacostraca
- Superorder: Peracarida
- Order: Isopoda
- Suborder: Oniscidea
- Infraorder: Holoverticata
- Family: Porcellionidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Porcellionidae: /pɔːrˌsɛliˈoʊnɪˌdiː/
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Summary
Porcellionidae is a terrestrial family of isopods that has a broad distribution and plays key roles in terrestrial ecosystems as decomposers.
Physical Characteristics
The ventral plate of the thoracic exoskeleton flares out slightly over the legs, called the epimeron. The uropods are flattened out and spear-like, extending beyond the last exoskeletal plate.
Identification Tips
Look for the distinct flare of the thoracic exoskeleton over the legs and the elongated, flattened uropods.
Habitat
Terrestrial habitats, found on every continent except Antarctica.
Distribution
Found globally except for Antarctica, with a total of 530 species.
Diet
Detritivorous, feeding on decaying organic material.
Life Cycle
Typical isopod life cycle includes egg, juvenile, and adult stages with multiple molts in between.
Reproduction
Reproduction is ovoviviparous; females brood eggs and release juveniles.
Predators
Predators include various birds, amphibians, and other invertebrates.
Ecosystem Role
They play a significant role in the decomposition of organic material and soil aeration.
Collecting Methods
- Hand collecting
- Pitfall traps
- Baited traps
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Freeze drying
- Dry preservation
Similar Taxa
Tags
- Isopoda
- Porcellionidae
- terrestrial crustaceans
- ecology