Vosnesensky’s Isopod (Pentidotea wosnesenskii)

Other Names: Green isopod, kelp isopod, rockweed isopod

Description: The Vosnesensky’s isopod is one of the largest intertidal isopods in the region, growing up to 4 cm long. Their body is segmented, untapered, and flattened. Their color is depended upon the algae it eats, and can range from tan, brown, green, black and even red (along coralline algae). They also have a few white sports on their body. 

Habitat: This species of isopod can be found along the coast in mid intertidal zones from Alaska to Northern Mexico. They are often abundant in kelp, mussel beds and underling rocks within the intertidal zone. 

Diet: Their diet mainly consists of algae, but they will occasionally consumes dogwinkle egg capsules.

Tide Pool Tidbits:

• This species of isopod can swim using specialized legs called pleopods.

• These isopods are also found along the coast of Siberia.

• Male Vosnesensky’s isopods are larger, paler, and have thicker legs than females.

References: Biodiversity Of The Central Coast