Isopods

Isopods look similar to their close land relatives the wood lice. They are very common and are to be found on every beach in Cornwall. Isopods come in a wide variety of forms and over 50 species can be found in Cornwall.

Common Slater Ligia oceanica

The best known isopod must be the common slater Ligia oceanica. This is a large wood louse that can reach over three centimetres.

They are nocturnal scavengers. They can be found above the high tide mark under stones or seaweed. They live high up the shore, rarely covered by the tide, however they are good swimmers. If disturbed they are only briefly seen, as they move very fast and quickly find shelter.

Other isopods to be found are the green or red tinged species of the Idotea. Another isopod of interest is Sphaeroma serratum which when disturbed rolls readily into a ball.