No.57 woodlouse

Woodlice are a type of crustacean adapted to life on land, inhabiting moist places like under fallen leaves and dead wood. Their bodies are covered in a hard exoskeleton, and they are known for their “playing dead” behavior, curling into a ball to protect themselves when sensing danger. They are believed to have evolved from marine isopods, achieving unique adaptations for terrestrial life, such as modifying their gill structures.

CT scans revealed a tightly sealed structure where the dorsal plates forming the exoskeleton fit together precisely, minimizing gaps even when curled into a ball. The digestive tract and respiratory organs are positioned centrally within the body for protection. This allows them to maintain vital functions while in their defensive posture, demonstrating a highly evolved adaptation for life as a terrestrial crustacean.