Roly-polies, those fascinating little crustaceans that curl into a ball when disturbed, are known by a variety of names across different regions and contexts. The most common and officially recognized alternative name is pill bug.
Beyond "pill bug," these intriguing creatures have garnered a host of other monikers, reflecting their appearance, behavior, or local dialect. While Armadillidium vulgare is their scientific name, their informal names are quite diverse.
Common Alternative Names for Roly-Polies
Many people refer to roly-polies by several other descriptive names. These names often highlight their habitat (wood) or their appearance (shrimp-like):
- Pill bugs: This is considered their official common name, referring to their ability to roll into a tight "pill" shape.
- Doodlebugs: While also sometimes used for antlions, this name is applied to roly-polies due to their sometimes erratic movements.
- Wood shrimp: This name reflects their preference for damp, woody environments and their segmented, shrimp-like bodies.
- Woodlice: This term is quite common, especially in scientific or more general biological contexts, referring to their classification as terrestrial crustaceans that resemble tiny lice.
Regional and Informal Names
In some parts of the world, particularly within the United Kingdom, roly-polies are known by even more unique and charming names. These terms often originate from local folklore or specific characteristics observed by communities:
| Region/Context | Alternative Name(s) | Description/Origin |
|---|---|---|
| General/Official | Pill bug | Refers to their defensive rolling action. |
| General | Doodlebug | Describes their crawling or "doodling" movement. |
| General | Wood shrimp | Connects their appearance to marine shrimp and their habitat in wood. |
| General | Woodlouse | A broad term for terrestrial isopods, highlighting their habitat and small size. |
| United Kingdom | Chiggypigs | A playful, regional term. |
| United Kingdom | Penny sows | Likely refers to their round shape (like a penny) and association with pigs (sows). |
| United Kingdom | Cheesybugs | Another whimsical, regional name. |
These varied names underscore the widespread presence and the curious nature of the roly-poly, a creature that continues to fascinate both scientists and the general public.
