Orkin Exterminator & Termite Control

All amphipod species prefer moist habitats. Most members of the amphipod species have flat bodies with large, compound eyes on the sides of their heads. The majority of amphipods utilize a defense mechanism known as a tail flip, wherein they use their abdomens to propel themselves away from a predator. However, because amphipods belong to an order comprised of over 8,000 species, their habitats, characteristics and feeding habits vary. 

While the word amphipod translates to "two kinds of legs," different species of amphipod have varying leg counts. Each species also walks differently, as their movements depend upon leg arrangement. Some amphipods walk upright and very slowly, while others swim and some move quickly through the use of three of their pleopods, or legs.

Adult amphipods range from five to 20 millimeters in length. Amphipods that live in water are primarily white, although some may also exhibit light brown, green, dark brown or black coloration. Most amphipods become red in color when they die.

Amphipods can thrive in marine settings and on moist land. Other species are found in home gardens and beneath flowerpots. Some amphipods, such as whale lice, make their homes on the skin of marine mammals.

Some amphipods are herbivores, while others are carnivores. Sand-, mud- and moist-soil-dwelling amphipods feed on bacteria. Other species are scavengers that feed on dead plants and animals.

For reproductive purposes, male amphipods typically have large, bulging eyes or chemical receptors on their antennae. Male amphipods search for females and grasp them using their legs. The male and female remain attached during their consummation ritual.  While most amphipod females produce a single generation of offspring, there are species that can produce several generations within a five-month period.