Aspects of the distribution and community structure of isopods in the Mediterranean coastal desert of Egypt

Abstract

The distribution of desert isopods was studied in three contrasting sites in the western Mediterranean coast of Egypt. Six species, were found, of which Armadillo sp., Porcellio oliveri and Hemilepistus reaumuri were dominant. The largest number of species occurred in a site which sloped gently. Differences were found in soil moisture content, percentage of calcium carbonate and total soluble salts in the three sites, indicating that these factors are important in controlling distribution. The phenology of the six species was also studied, all species reaching peak numbers during winter at the time of maximum rainfall.