Excirolana chiltoni
This record describes Excirolana chiltoni (species). Recorded family: Cirolanidae. Recorded order: Isopoda.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Malacostraca
- Order
- Isopoda (Isopods)
- Suborder
- Cymothoida
- Family
- Cirolanidae
- Genus
- Excirolana
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Shallow waters
Geographic Range
Japan through the Aleutian Islands and down to the coast of Southern California
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Mating usually occurs before and sometimes during the parturial molt. Sperm transfer is indirect. Eggs are brooded in the marsupium, which later hatch into postlarva before developing into adults
About Isopods: the wider group
Order-level background for Isopoda, the group containing Excirolana chiltoni. 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 Excirolana chiltoni (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by John S. Ascher; Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset