Philoscia muscorum
This record describes Philoscia muscorum (species). Recorded family: Philosciidae. Recorded order: Isopoda.
Identification and Appearance
Brownish mottled with pale patches and a clear dark stripe along the back
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Malacostraca
- Order
- Isopoda (Isopods)
- Suborder
- Oniscidea
- Family
- Philosciidae
- Genus
- Philoscia
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
native to Europe, adventive in NA (widespread in the east: map )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Philoscia muscorum (Scopoli 1763)
About Isopods: the wider group
Order-level background for Isopoda, the group containing Philoscia muscorum. 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 Philoscia muscorum (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by tom murray; Additional contributions by Beatriz Moisset , Ted Kropiewnicki , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Philoscia muscorum
What is Philoscia muscorum?
Philoscia muscorum is a species in the family Philosciidae, within the order Isopoda.
How big is Philoscia muscorum?
up to 11 mm
How do you identify Philoscia muscorum?
Brownish mottled with pale patches and a clear dark stripe along the back
Where is Philoscia muscorum found?
Range: native to Europe, adventive in NA (widespread in the east: map )