Sow Bugs Eating Carrot Seedlings: A Common Phenomenon

Carrots, a crunchy and sweet vegetable, are often left unattended in the kitchen, unaware of the tiny insects that might be lurking nearby. Sow bugs, also known as isopods or pill bugs, are one such insect that can be found chewing on carrots without any intention to eat the shredded pieces. But why do they do this?

The answer lies in the composition of carrots. These vegetables have a high water content, making them an ideal source for hydration. The mandibles of sow bugs allow them to suck out the juice from the carrots, quenching their thirst. It may seem illogical that these insects would choose to eat carrots over other nutritious food sources, but they simply avoid pieces of these vegetables when left openly in the kitchen.

In fact, sow bugs have a diverse diet that includes artificial products after fermentation, as well as dead bodies of cockroaches, lizards, frogs, termites, caterpillars, spiders, and more. They can also consume stem sap and leaves, fruits loaded with natural sugars like fructose and glucose, and even small quantities of minerals like magnesium and iron.

However, sow bugs are not primary consumers; they are omnivores that can eat both plant-based foods and animal sources. When plant-based foods are scarce, they quickly shift their diets to animal sources. In addition, the fiber material obtained after extracting juice from carrots is of no value to them.

When sow bugs find a spilled drop of carrot juice on the floor, you may see them crawling in a long trail as they try to collect as much moisture as possible. The high amount of sugar in their juices also attracts other insects, making it a low-nutritional-value food source for them.

In conclusion, sow bugs do not eat carrot seedlings or seeds because they prefer foods with high energy value. Carrots are heavily loaded with fiber and water, which can create digestive problems for these insects. As a result, they avoid eating carrots altogether and instead opt for carbohydrate-rich foods that can provide them with the energy they need.

To keep ants away from carrots, it is essential to store them properly in an airtight container or bag. Additionally, you can place bay leaves or cinnamon sticks near the carrots as these insects detest their smell. Finally, avoid leaving carrots out in the open for extended periods, as this can attract other pests and create an ideal environment for sow bugs and ants to thrive.

By understanding the eating habits of sow bugs and ants, we can take steps to prevent them from infesting our kitchens and gardens, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable food supply.

Sow bugs eating carrot seedlings