Ligia pallasii
This record describes Ligia pallasii (species). Recorded family: Ligiidae. Recorded order: Isopoda.
Identification and Appearance
The eyes are separated by a distance equal to twice the greatest diameter of an eye. They have short uropods, and a basal segment as long as broad.
Classification
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Caves and crevices on rocky sea cliffs.
Geographic Range
Northwestern US; Central California to Alaska.
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Ligia pallasii feed on dead plants and animals, and the algal film from upper intertidal rocks.
Life History
The life span of these isopods is about 1.5-2 years with the breeding period in the spring and early summer months.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Author of species is Brandt, 1833.
About Isopods: the wider group
Order-level background for Isopoda, the group containing Ligia pallasii. 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 Ligia pallasii (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Ted Kropiewnicki; Additional contributions by Astrobirder
Frequently Asked Questions About Ligia pallasii
What is Ligia pallasii?
Ligia pallasii is a species in the family Ligiidae, within the order Isopoda.
How big is Ligia pallasii?
Up to 35 mm in length.
How do you identify Ligia pallasii?
The eyes are separated by a distance equal to twice the greatest diameter of an eye. They have short uropods, and a basal segment as long as broad.
Where is Ligia pallasii found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Caves and crevices on rocky sea cliffs. |
| Range | Northwestern US; Central California to Alaska. |
What does Ligia pallasii eat?
The diet of the Ligia pallasii includes Ligia pallasii feed on dead plants and animals, and the algal film from upper intertidal rocks..
What is the life cycle of a Ligia pallasii?
The life span of these isopods is about 1.5-2 years with the breeding period in the spring and early summer months.