Rolly pollies, commonly known as pill bugs, are terrestrial crustaceans. They thrive in damp, dark environments, frequently found under rocks, decaying logs, and leaf litter worldwide. Their unique adaptations allow them to live entirely on land, unlike most crustaceans, which are aquatic.
Animals That Hunt Rolly Pollies
A variety of animals include rolly pollies in their diet. Ground beetles and centipedes are among the invertebrate hunters that actively pursue these crustaceans. Centipedes are quick hunters that can overpower a rolly polly, while ground beetles often forage at night for available prey.
Amphibians such as frogs, toads, and salamanders readily consume rolly pollies. These amphibians typically use their sticky tongues to capture prey. Small reptiles, including various lizards and garter snakes, also prey on rolly pollies.
Ground-feeding birds, such as robins, thrushes, and sparrows, frequently peck through leaf litter and soil to uncover rolly pollies. Small mammals like shrews and certain rodents also consume rolly pollies.
Their Unique Predators
Some predators have developed specialized methods for hunting rolly pollies. The Woodlouse Spider, Dysdera crocata, is a notable example, specifically adapted to prey on these armored crustaceans. This spider possesses unusually large, powerful fangs that protrude from its jaws, enabling it to pierce the tough exoskeleton of a rolly polly.
The Woodlouse Spider is a nocturnal hunter that does not rely on webs to capture its prey. Instead, it actively stalks rolly pollies in their damp habitats. Its specialized fangs are designed to penetrate the hard outer shell, allowing the spider to inject venom and immobilize its meal.
How Rolly Pollies Protect Themselves
Rolly pollies employ defense mechanisms to evade predators. Their ability to roll into a tight ball, known as conglobation, protects their vulnerable underside and presents a hard, armored exterior to potential threats. The segmented plates of their exoskeleton interlock, forming a compact sphere that is difficult for many predators to penetrate or grasp.
Their hard exoskeleton acts as a physical barrier. This shell provides a significant protective layer against bites or crushing forces. Beyond physical defenses, rolly pollies also exhibit behavioral strategies by seeking out damp, dark, and secluded places to hide during the day. This nocturnal habit and preference for concealed environments reduce their exposure to daytime predators, enhancing their chances of survival.
Rolly Pollies in the Ecosystem
Rolly pollies play a role in their ecosystems beyond being a food source for various animals. They are primarily detritivores, meaning they feed on decaying organic matter such as dead leaves, rotting wood, and other plant debris. This dietary habit makes them contributors to the decomposition process in soil environments.
By breaking down organic materials, rolly pollies help to recycle essential nutrients back into the soil. This nutrient cycling supports soil health and makes nutrients available for plants to absorb, contributing to the overall fertility of the ecosystem. They are part of the complex food web. Positioned at lower trophic levels, they convert dead organic matter into a food source, supporting the diverse array of predators that consume them.