Rolly pollies, also known as pill bugs or woodlice, are common inhabitants of gardens and yards. Often mistaken for insects, these creatures are actually terrestrial crustaceans, making them distant relatives of crabs and shrimp. Their distinctive ability to curl into a tight, protective ball when disturbed gives them their common name.
Primary Food Sources
Rolly pollies primarily function as detritivores, meaning their diet largely consists of decaying organic matter. They break down dead plant material, such as fallen leaves, grasses, and wood fibers. This dietary preference is linked to their physiological needs, as their gill-like structures require a moist environment. Consuming damp, decomposing material helps them meet moisture requirements while extracting essential nutrients.
Diverse Dietary Preferences
Rolly pollies consume a variety of decaying organic materials found in their habitats. These include rotting leaves, soft decaying grasses, twigs, and fungi. They may also feed on spoiled fruits, dead animal flesh, animal feces, and shed animal skins. This broad palate allows them to adapt to different available resources.
While their main diet centers on dead matter, rolly pollies occasionally consume live plant parts. This can include tender seedlings, roots, or lower leaves, especially when decaying food sources are scarce or during very wet conditions. Such instances are generally opportunistic, not a primary dietary choice. Damage to healthy plants is often minimal.
Ecological Contribution
Through their feeding habits, rolly pollies play a significant role as natural recyclers and decomposers. Their consumption of detritus facilitates the breakdown of organic matter, returning essential nutrients to the soil. This nutrient cycling improves soil health and supports plant growth. They have even been observed to consume heavy metal deposits, aiding in their removal from the soil.
Providing Food in Captivity
For those keeping rolly pollies in controlled environments, providing a suitable diet is straightforward. Decaying leaves (oak or maple) and small pieces of rotting wood are excellent staples. Fresh vegetable scraps, such as carrot, potato peels, cucumber, zucchini, or lettuce, can supplement their diet. Avoid processed foods or anything treated with chemicals.
A consistent source of calcium, like crushed eggshells or cuttlebone, benefits their exoskeletons. Ensure a moist environment alongside their food, as they absorb moisture through their bodies and gills. Regularly replacing uneaten fresh foods prevents mold growth.