How do sowbugs and pillbugs differ in terms of their physical capabilities?

Pillbugs, commonly known as roly-polies, have a unique ability to curl up into a tight ball when threatened. This physical capability acts as a defense mechanism against predators. By rolling into a ball, they reduce their profile and protect their softer undersides, making it more difficult for predators to consume them.

In contrast, sowbugs do not have this ability and remain flat or slightly curved in appearance. This distinction highlights the differences in their defensive strategies and adaptations. While both sowbugs and pillbugs are wingless and belong to the same order of crustaceans, the rolling behavior is a key characteristic that sets pillbugs apart. The other options do not accurately present unique capabilities related to their physical structure or behavior, as neither sowbugs can roll up nor can either beetle jump; hence, this reinforces why the ability of pillbugs to curl up is a significant and distinguishing feature.