Idotea balthica
This record describes Idotea balthica (species). Recorded family: Idoteidae. Recorded order: Isopoda.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
subcosmopolitan; in our area, abundant south of Cape Cod, less common to the north
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Idotea balthica (Pallas 1772)
About Isopods: the wider group
Order-level background for Isopoda, the group containing Idotea balthica. 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 Idotea balthica (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Aaron Hunt; Additional contributions by Robert Lord Zimlich , v belov , metrioptera