Roly-poly bugs are decomposers. They digest waste like scat as well as decaying matter from dead plants and animals, and then return the essential nutrients back into the soil. Because roly-polies are sensitive to changes in the environment, they also serve as biological indicators for the health of ecosystems.

What is the purpose of a roly poly bug?

They play an important role in the ecological process because they help speed up the decomposition of dead vegetation and plants. Roly poly bugs also eat live plants and can damage young plants and seedlings in gardens.

What do roly polys need to survive?

Roly-polies are detritivores who consume a wide variety of organic material. They primarily consume dead plants or animals, but they will occasionally eat live plants. In captivity, they will thrive on a diet of raw fruit and vegetable slices. Potatoes, carrots, apples and pears are good choices.