IsopodaCymothoidae

Anilocra acuta

This record describes Anilocra acuta (species). Recorded family: Cymothoidae. Recorded order: Isopoda.

Identification and Appearance

Anilocra acuta - Anilocra acuta
Contributed by Edward L. Ruden

Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Malacostraca
Order
Isopoda (Isopods)
Suborder
Cymothoida
Genus
Anilocra

Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.

Habitat and Range

Habitat

Ectoparasite of various fishes

Geographic Range

River-ocean interfaces from western Louisiana to New York

Diet and Behavior

Diet: Hosts: Lepisosteus spp. , Bairdiella chrysura , and Esox niger

Additional species information

Species notes from the sources

Etymology: Anilocra acuta Richardson, 1910

About Isopods: the wider group

Order-level background for Isopoda, the group containing Anilocra acuta. Species-specific details appear above.

Group overview

Isopoda includes ~10,000 described species of woodlice, pill bugs, and sea slaters. Woodlice are the only crustaceans to have fully adapted to life on land. Pill bugs (roly-polies) can roll into a perfect ball for defense.

Ecological role of the group

Woodlice are critical soil decomposers, breaking down dead plant material and recycling calcium and other nutrients. They breathe through gill-like structures and require moist environments. Giant deep-sea isopods (Bathynomus) can grow up to 50cm long.

Economic and practical significance of the group

Woodlice are generally beneficial in gardens as decomposers, though they can occasionally damage seedlings and soft fruits in large numbers.

Recorded sources for this group: Soil ecology research, marine biology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.

Explore Isopoda families and species →

Frequently Asked Questions About Anilocra acuta

How big is Anilocra acuta?

34 mm long and 12 mm wide

Where is Anilocra acuta found?
FeatureDetails
HabitatEctoparasite of various fishes
RangeRiver-ocean interfaces from western Louisiana to New York
What does Anilocra acuta eat?

The diet of the Anilocra acuta includes Hosts: Lepisosteus spp. , Bairdiella chrysura , and Esox niger.

How we use and review source data. Source count does not imply independent verification.

Photo credits: Contributed by Edward L. Ruden. Contributors retain copyright over their individual contributions.