Some species roll up into a ball when disturbed. Juveniles look like adults and are soon liberated from pouch. Molting is in two stages. First the back half molts, then two to three days later, the front half molts. Coloration of both halves may be different at this time.
Many species are fast walkers, but can be easily observed when held in the palm of the hand.
In their immediate vicinity, isopods do minimal soil improvement. Isopods are also a food source for other animals. In greenhouses and southern states, large populations can eat and damage plants. Isopods live where it is moist and usually in a shaded area. To attract them, water soil or leaf litter in the shade and cover with plastic, piece of plywood or cardboard.