Amphipods

Important Considerations:

• The amphipods get their name, “scud” because of their ability to move and jump quickly
• Scuds are considered to be nuisance pests, and there are roughly 90 species throughout the US and Canada
• Eggs hatch in 1-3 weeks after being deposited into the brood pouch of the scrud, on the underneath side of the body
• Most species complete the cycle of life (egg to egg) within one year or less
• Scuds have to stay in moist habitats because they cannot lose too much water due to the fact that they don’t have a waxy layer on their exoskeleton
• If scuds get exposed to too much water however, they will dessicate

Where to Find Them on Your Property?

You will find scuds in moist habitats, which could include places like under ivy or inside leaf mold beneath shrubs. Most species stay active only at night, which can also help reduce their water loss. They invade buildings or structures when outdoor conditions become wet, like after a heavy rain. Scuds normally die within 24 hours after invading structures because it usually ends up being too dry for them inside.