Trichorhina tomentosa explained

Trichorhina tomentosa, known informally as the dwarf white isopod, is a species of woodlouse in the family Platyarthridae. It is a parthenogenetic species, and only female individuals are known. Native to tropical regions throughout the Americas, dwarf white isopods have been introduced to other tropical regions worldwide.[1]

Description

Dwarf white isopods can grow to around in length.[2] They are uniformly white in color, and like other members in its family, cannot roll into a ball. Like many other woodlice, dwarf white isopods prefer moist soil, feeding on detritus. Dwarf white isopods give birth asexually.[3]

Relationship with humans

As clean-up crews

Due to their prolific nature, ease of care, and ability to consume waste, dwarf white isopods are widely favored and used in bioactive setups, along with other isopods and springtails. Not only are they used as clean-up crews; they may also provide a food source for other terrarium animals, such as dart frogs and geckos.

Notes and References

  1. Alien terrestrial crustaceans (Isopods and Amphipods). Chapter 7.1. 10.3897/biorisk.4.54. 2010. Cochard. Pierre-Olivier. Vilisics. Ferenc. Sechet. Emmanuel. Biorisk. 4. 81–96. free.
  2. Web site: Dwarf White Isopod (Trichorhina tomentosa. PDF. Crittersdiect.com. 28 March 2022. dead. https://web.archive.org/web/20180219031653/https://www.crittersdirect.com/assets/images/Dwarf%20White%20Information%20Guide.pdf. 19 February 2018.
  3. Web site: Schmalfuss . Helmut . 2004 . World Catalog of terrestrial Isopods . dead . https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20090224212510/http://www.oniscidea-catalog.naturkundemuseum-bw.de/Cat_terr_isop.pdf . 2009-02-24 . 2020-09-08.