Ligia exotica, commonly known as the sea slater, is a marine isopod found in coastal regions. It thrives on rocky shores and is adapted to living in moist environments. This species is known for its flattened, oval-shaped body and long antennae, which help it navigate its habitat. It is a scavenger, feeding on organic debris washed ashore.

Ligia exotica, commonly known as the sea roach, is originally native to the coastal regions of the Indo-Pacific. This includes areas such as the coastal waters of East Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands.

Ligia exotica typically inhabits intertidal zones, which are areas that are above water at low tide and under water at high tide. These zones are often characterized by rocky shores, breakwaters, and jetties where the animal can find crevices for shelter. The species thrives in warm, humid climates with temperatures usually ranging from 20°C to 30°C.

As a detritivore, Ligia exotica plays an important role in the ecosystem by feeding on decaying plant and animal matter, which helps in nutrient recycling. Its ability to live in the harsh conditions of the intertidal zone allows it to exploit a niche that is less accessible to predators, although it still faces threats from birds and larger marine animals.