Miktoniscus medcofi
Van Name, 1940
Small Alabama Sowbug
A small terrestrial isopod in the Trichoniscidae, found in both North America and South America. This belongs to a characterized by reduced body pigmentation and small size. It inhabits moist microhabitats in forested environments. The 'Small Alabama ' reflects its documented occurrence in the southeastern United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Miktoniscus medcofi: //mɪk.toʊˈnɪs.kəs mɛdˈkɒ.fi//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other Trichoniscidae by its minute size and pale, unpigmented or lightly pigmented body. Members of Miktoniscus can be separated from related by the structure of the male pleopods and the shape of the . Specific identification of M. medcofi requires examination of these genital structures. The lacks the dark coloration seen in many larger .
Images
Habitat
Moist, sheltered microhabitats in forested areas, including decaying wood, leaf litter, and soil crevices. Requires high humidity to prevent desiccation.
Distribution
North America (present, with records from the southeastern United States including Alabama); South America (Brazil: Amapá, Pará, Paraná, Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande do Sul, and São Paulo states).
Ecological Role
Contributes to decomposition of matter in forest floor through feeding on decaying plant material.
Similar Taxa
- Trichoniscus spp.Similar small size and pale coloration, but Trichoniscus have different pleopod structure and
- Miktoniscus other speciesCongeneric require examination of male for reliable separation; geographic distribution may provide additional clues