What are pill bugs?
Pill bugs are able to form their bodies into a ball shape, in a process known as conglobation. Not all species of isopods can roll into a pill like shape. Armadillidiidae is the family of pill bugs that are able to roll into a perfect ball. This behavior is their only defense from predation. Pill bugs are native to Europe, but can now be found in America.
What do pill bugs eat?
Pill bugs diet consists mainly of decomposing organic materials such as leaves, rotting wood, and plant materials. Pill bugs will eat live plants on occasion, depending on how humid the environment is. They will eat roots, leaves, stems, and even flowers if given the opportunity. Pill bugs will eat many vegetables such as corn, beans, squash, carrots, peas, beet, cucumber, potato, spinach, lettuce, and even strawberry. Some species of pill bugs will also consume decaying animals, feces, shed skin, and even dead pill bugs.
How do Pill bugs help the environment?
Pill bugs help the environment by being some of the best decomposers. They are capable of taking in heavy metals such as copper, zinc, lead and cadmium and crystallize these out as spherical deposits in the midgut. This allows them to temporarily remove many of the toxic metal ions from the soil. They also provide a food source for birds, toads, spiders, and other insects.
Are pill bugs harmful?
Pill bugs do not bite, sting, or carry any harmful diseases. They do not damage household items. Pill bugs cannot harm you in anyway. However, they may damage the roots of plants when feeding.
What do pill bug habitats consist of?
A pill bug’s habitat is typically under mulch, fallen leaves, rotting wood and rocks. Pill bugs are nocturnal and require humid conditions during the day. Pill bugs can live anywhere there is moisture and dead plants to eat. They are normally found in forests and other humid habitats. A few species of pill bugs live along the seashore, close to their marine relatives. They prefer to hide in damp and dark places.
