Because these gills require moisture to function, roly-polies are typically found in damp environments such as under rotting logs, rocks, or mulch.

The signature "roll" (scientifically called conglobation) is a defensive behavior that protects their soft undersides from predators and prevents their breathing organs from drying out. Ecological Importance Roly-polies play a vital role as nature's "composters":

petition to bring back jam roly poly!!! what should we make next?