Distribution Patterns of Isopod Species in Different Habitats

Abstract

One of the most striking aspects of isopod biology is their wide distribution pattern. They are most commonly found in cryptozoic micro-habitats under stones or bark of trees or in the upper layer of soil within mesic habitats (Fig. 10.1). Rather rarely, they are abroad on the ground’s surface during the daytime (exceptions to this will be discussed later). Thus, most of the earlier studies (Herold 1925; Verhoeff 1931; Miller 1938; Meinertz 1944) were largely concerned with the different patterns of distribution exhibited by various isopod species. Herold (1925) tried to arrange the various isopod species found in different habitats and relate their distribution to moisture conditions or other climatic factors. This was followed by Verhoeff’s (1931) attempt to demonstrate an ecological meaning to the isopod distribution pattern in Germany and the Mediterranean lands. Thus, Porcellio laevis was found under warmer conditions than P. dilatatus, or Armadillidium vulgare was found in more stony habitats than A. zenckeri, inhabiting mostly meadows.