Pill bugs breathe through a tracheal system made up of spiracles and tubes known as tracheae, which directly provides oxygen to their cells. This chitinous structure efficiently facilitates gas exchange without involving the circulatory system.
Pill bugs, also known as woodlice, breathe through structures called spiracles which are connected to a network of fine tubes known as the tracheal system. This system directly carries oxygen to their body cells. The spiracles are openings situated on the sides of their body, which allows for the regulation of gas exchange, including the intake of oxygen and the release of carbon dioxide. Unlike aquatic insects, pill bugs do not have gills but have adapted their tracheal system to live in terrestrial environments.
As active land-dwelling arthropods, their use of a tracheal system is one of the most efficient methods for respiratory gas exchange in small organisms. The tracheal tubes are made of chitin, a polymeric material that provides both flexibility and support. This system is independent of their circulatory system, meaning their blood does not directly transport oxygen, which is an adaptation that offers great advantages in their terrestrial habitat.