Isopods, commonly known as rolly pollies or pill bugs, are familiar crustaceans found in gardens and damp environments. These small, segmented creatures are often observed scurrying under rocks or decaying leaves. A common question is whether they dig.
The Digging Habits of Isopods
Isopods are capable diggers, a natural behavior integral to their survival. They use their many legs and body to maneuver through soft substrates, creating shallow tunnels and small chambers within the soil or leaf litter. While they do not construct deep, extensive burrow systems like some other animals, their digging is purposeful and effective. Some species, such as the dairy cow isopod, are known for more extensive burrowing habits.
Their digging typically involves pushing aside loose material, forming pathways just beneath the surface. The depth of their tunnels usually spans a few inches, providing them with a hidden network within the substrate.
Why Isopods Dig
Isopods engage in digging for several biological reasons, driven by their physiological requirements and defensive strategies. One motivation is moisture regulation, as isopods breathe through gills that must remain moist. Burrowing allows them to escape dry surface conditions and find humid pockets within the soil, preventing desiccation.
Digging provides shelter and protection from threats. Subterranean spaces offer refuge from predators, such as birds, spiders, and other invertebrates. These burrows shield them from harsh environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures or excessive dryness.
Accessing food sources is another reason for their burrowing activity. As detritivores, isopods feed on decaying organic matter like dead leaves, wood, and plant debris. This material is often abundant beneath the surface, and digging enables them to reach these nutritional resources, contributing to decomposition.
Digging plays a role in their reproductive cycle. Female isopods may burrow to create secure and moist locations for their brood pouch, known as a marsupium, where they carry their developing young. These sheltered spots provide a safe environment for new isopods to develop away from predators and harsh conditions.
Creating an Environment for Digging
For those providing habitats for isopods, accommodating their natural digging instincts supports their overall well-being. A suitable substrate should be loose and allow for easy burrowing. Good choices include organic topsoil, coco fiber, or peat moss, which offer a crumbly texture. A mixture of these materials can create a diverse and nutrient-rich environment that mimics their natural habitat.
Incorporating layers of leaf litter and decaying wood is also beneficial, as isopods can burrow under and into these materials. These elements not only provide burrowing opportunities but also serve as a food source. Sufficient substrate depth, at least a few inches, is important to allow for effective tunneling.
Maintaining varying levels of moisture within the substrate encourages isopods to explore and dig for damp spots. A moisture gradient, with some areas more humid than others, allows them to self-regulate their hydration levels. Allowing isopods to engage in their natural digging behavior contributes to a healthy and thriving environment for these crustaceans.