WOODLOUSE

The Latin name for the woodlouse is Oniscus asellus.

Woodlouse is a common name for a number of species of various terrestrial crustaceans. They are nocturnal animals and are found frequently in gardens, under stones or in any damp place. They feed on decaying animal or vegetable matter. 

The woodlouse has a flattened body, reaching a body length of 1.5 to 2cm. It is greyish-brown in colour, usually with a paler fringe surrounding the body, and sometimes marked with lighter spots. It has seven pairs of legs, with the respiratory organs being completely enfolded by perforated plates. 

The female carries her young in a pouch below the body at first. 

Some varieties, often known as Pill bugs, are capable of rolling themselves up into a ball when they are disturbed.