sand isopod
Chiridotea coeca
This record describes Chiridotea coeca (species). Recorded family: Chaetiliidae. Recorded order: Isopoda.
Identification and Appearance
Telson pointed; antennae roughly equal in size; mottled, sand colored
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Malacostraca
- Order
- Isopoda (Isopods)
- Suborder
- Valvifera
- Family
- Chaetiliidae
- Genus
- Chiridotea
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Intertidal on sandy shores
About Isopods: the wider group
Order-level background for Isopoda, the group containing Chiridotea coeca. 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.
Photos of sand isopod (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Charley Eiseman; Additional contributions by Blocky
Frequently Asked Questions About sand isopod
What is sand isopod?
sand isopod (Chiridotea coeca) is a species in the family Chaetiliidae, within the order Isopoda.
How do you identify sand isopod?
Telson pointed; antennae roughly equal in size; mottled, sand colored
Where is sand isopod found?
Habitat: Intertidal on sandy shores