Water Hog-louse - Asellus aquaticus

This crustacean is closely related to woodlice but lives entirely in water.

Often found in stagnant water as they can tolerate low oxygen levels. They do not swim well but tend to crawl around weed and mud.

All year round.

They are detritus feeders, eating decaying organic matter. The species breeds throughout the vegetation period, most frequently in spring. Females carry eggs in brood pouches underneath their body.

It is common and widespread in Britain.

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.