Technical Sheet: Isopod Merulanella Tricolor
Taxonomy:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Malacostraca
- Order: Isopoda
- Family: Trichoniscidae
- Genus: Merulanella
- Species: Merulanella tricolor
Description:
- Size: Generally between 3 to 5 mm in length.
- Coloration: As the name suggests, it has a distinctive tricolor pattern, consisting of shades of red, yellow, and black.
- Body Shape: It has an oval, segmented body typical of terrestrial isopods, with a protective exoskeleton. Its antennae are relatively long and thin.
- Color Pattern: The colors are arranged in bands or spots evenly distributed across the body, although the exact pattern may vary between individuals.
Distribution:
- Habitat: It is a terrestrial isopod found in tropical regions, particularly in areas with high humidity and dense vegetation. It is found in Southeast Asia, in places like Malaysia and Borneo.
Habits and behavior:
- Diet: It feeds mainly on decaying organic material, such as leaves, wood, and other plant debris.
- Behavior: They are nocturnal, seeking shelter during the day under logs, stones, and leaf litter. They move slowly and are harmless to humans.
Reproduction:
- Reproduction: Like most isopods, Merulanella tricolor reproduces by laying eggs. The female carries the eggs in a special brood pouch under her body until the young are ready to emerge.
Ecological importance:
- Role in Ecosystem: It contributes to the decomposition of organic material, helping to recycle nutrients in the ecosystems where it lives.
