Woodlice in focus: Chemical defense against spider attacks discovered!

Woodlice in focus: Chemical defense against spider attacks discovered!

A research team from the University of Greifswald and Simon Fraser University in Canada has made a remarkable discovery in the behavior of the common woodlice (Porcellio scaber). When attacked by spiders, these small crustaceans use chemical defense mechanisms that have so far been little researched. The results of this study were published in the scientific journalThe Journal of the Royal Society Interfacepublished.

When threatened, the woodlice secretes a cocktail of four quinoline-based chemicals. These chemical compounds are not only intended to ward off spiders, but also appear to form a sticky, viscous liquid that repels attackers. Dr. Andreas Fischer, the lead researcher, emphasizes the importance of this discovery, especially since chemical defense strategies in crustaceans are so far little known compared to insects.

King of the woodlice

The woodlice belongs to the family of woodlice (Porcellionidae) and to the suborder of landlice (Oniscidea). It originally comes from southwestern Europe, but due to its adaptability it has spread throughout Europe and has even been introduced worldwide. It is particularly common in Central Europe.

With a body length of 9 to 18 mm and a mostly dark gray to slate gray color, the woodlouse is easy to recognize. Their lively social behavior is reflected in the formation of colonies in which they live sociably. The woodlice are classic saprophages, which means they feed mainly on dead organic material.

Behavior and habitat of the woodlice

Woodlice are nocturnal and hide under stones or wood during the day, often near people in cellars and gardens. When threatened, they play dead. However, this strategy is not always effective because they cannot curl up.

The woodlice reproduces by the females carrying 25 to 90 eggs on their ventral sides for around 40 to 50 days. Sexual maturity is reached after 14 molts and the animals become adults in about three months.

Prevention and control of woodlice

Since woodlice are indicators of high humidity, preventive measures against them are important. This includes ventilation measures such as shock and cross ventilation, avoiding poorly ventilated rooms and closing cracks in walls and floors. The use of chemical control measures should be avoided and instead sustainable methods such as reducing humidity and changing storage practices should be pursued.

Woodlice are not harmful animals and are not considered to be carriers of disease. However, they can be perceived as a nuisance and contaminate food. Their appearance can also indicate problems with humidity, which may be related to mold.

Overall, research on woodlice expands knowledge about chemical strategies in the fight for survival between predator and prey. This discovery could not only be important for biological research, but also help deepen our understanding of ecosystems.