Pronunciation: [sˈə͡ʊ bˈʌɡ] (IPA) 
The spelling of "sow bug" may seem confusing due to the way it is pronounced. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /saʊ bʌɡ/. The "sow" part is pronounced like "cow," and the "ow" sound is similar to the one heard in "ouch." The "b" in "bug" is pronounced more like a "p," hence the alternative spelling of "pill bug." Despite the confusion in spelling, these tiny crustaceans are a fascinating part of the natural world.
A sow bug, also known as a woodlouse or pill bug, is a small terrestrial crustacean belonging to the family Armadillidiidae. Sow bugs are characterized by their oval-shaped bodies and the ability to roll up into a tight ball when disturbed, resembling a tiny pill. They are typically gray or brown in color and measure about 0.5 to 1.5 centimeters in length.
Sow bugs are common inhabitants of moist environments, such as gardens, leaf litter, and under stones or logs. They are detritivores, primarily feeding on decaying organic matter, including dead plants, fungi, and algae. Their diet also includes some live plants, making them a potential nuisance in gardens, as they may feed on seedlings or young plants.
These crustaceans are distributed worldwide, with most species found in temperate regions. Sow bugs play a crucial role in the ecosystem by helping to break down dead plant material and recycling nutrients back into the soil. They also serve as a food source for predators like birds, spiders, and amphibians.
While sow bugs are harmless to humans and do not cause any direct damage, their presence in large numbers may be an indication of excessive moisture or decaying organic matter, potentially signaling other underlying issues in a particular environment.
The word "sow bug" is derived from the Old English term "sūga-buga", where "sūga" means sow and "buga" translates to beetle or insect. The name "sow bug" likely refers to the bug's resemblance to a pig or sow due to its segmented body shape. Additionally, the term "sow" might also refer to the bug's association with damp habitats, as "sow" has historically been connected to the concept of humidity or moisture.
