Pill bugs
Scientific name: Armadillidiidae
Pill bugs
Scientific name: Armadillidiidae
Description
Members of the family Armadillidiidae are fascinating creatures which charmingly roll into tight balls when threatened—a defensive maneuver that has earned them the nickname 'roly-polies'. Contrary to popular belief, they are not insects but terrestrial crustaceans, closely related to shrimp and crabs. Thriving in moist environments, they play a crucial role in ecosystems by recycling nutrients as they decompose organic material. Intriguingly, they can absorb heavy metals from the soil, serving as bioindicators for environmental health and detoxification. This dual role enhances soil fertility and monitors ecological conditions.