Pest Expert Overview: Pillbugs in Bryan & College Station
Pillbugs, Armadillidium vulgare, also known as roly-polies, are terrestrial crustaceans that are grey in color and about 18 mm in length. Unlike insects that have 3 pairs of legs and breathe through spiracles along their body, pillbugs have 7 pairs of legs and breathe through modified gills. Their common name comes from their ability to roll up into a ball, which they do to protect themselves from predators. Pillbugs are native to Europe, but can now be found around the world.
Life Cycle
Pillbugs can be found hiding out in moist environments outdoors during the day. They venture out at night to forage on decaying vegetation. They occasionally will feed on living plants.
Pillbugs lay their eggs in a brood pouch on the underside of their bodies. Each brood can contain up to 200 eggs. After the eggs hatch, they remain in the pouch for as long as 2 weeks, where they are provided nutrition through marsupial fluid produced in the pouch. Once they leave the pouch, their first 2 molts add their 7th segment and then 7th pair of legs. They continue to molt until they reach maturity after about 18 weeks.
Why are they Pests?
Pillbugs play a beneficial role in decomposition in nature. They can become quite numerous under the right conditions and create a nuisance for homeowners when they accidentally enter homes.
Pillbug Prevention
- Reduce moisture around the home
- Make sure doors and windows seal properly
Professional Pillbug Control
If you are dealing with an infestation of pillbugs, Venus Pest Company can help. Founded by Aggie Entomologist Dr. Scott Lingren, we provide expert, eco-friendly Integrated Pest Management solutions in Bryan and College Station. To get started, fill out the contact form, call/text 979.774.0486 or email [email protected]. Don’t let nuisance pests take over your home!
