Sphaeroma quadridentatum
This record describes Sphaeroma quadridentatum (species). Recorded family: Sphaeromatidae. Recorded order: Isopoda.
Identification and Appearance
Differs from Sphaeroma papillae in several notable ways: telson is more rounded, outer margin of second uropod is serrated, coloration is much different, and abdominal segments are differently shaped in a number of places.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Malacostraca
- Order
- Isopoda (Isopods)
- Suborder
- Sphaeromatidea
- Superfamily
- Sphaeromatoidea
- Family
- Sphaeromatidae (Typical Seapills)
- Genus
- Sphaeroma
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Mudflats
Geographic Range
Cape Cod to Gulf of Mexico
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Sphaeroma quadridentatum Say, 1818
About Isopods: the wider group
Order-level background for Isopoda, the group containing Sphaeroma quadridentatum. 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 Sphaeroma quadridentatum (2)
Photo credits: Contributed by Aaron Hunt
Frequently Asked Questions About Sphaeroma quadridentatum
What is Sphaeroma quadridentatum?
Sphaeroma quadridentatum is a species in the family Sphaeromatidae, within the order Isopoda.
How do you identify Sphaeroma quadridentatum?
Differs from Sphaeroma papillae in several notable ways: telson is more rounded, outer margin of second uropod is serrated, coloration is much different, and abdominal segments are differently shaped in a number of places.
Where is Sphaeroma quadridentatum found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Mudflats |
| Range | Cape Cod to Gulf of Mexico |