A sloth moth is a coprophagous moth which has evolved to exclusively inhabit the fur of sloths and to use sloth dung as a substrate for the early stages of reproduction.

As many as 120 moths have been counted on a single sloth. Moths fertilize sloth fur with nutrients, like nitrogen, whether by delivering fecal matter there or dying and decomposing.

Time goes slowly in the realm of sloths, where a secret dance between moths and algae reveals the wonders of nature's cooperation. Through their support of biodiversity and ability to hide, …

Once adult moths emerge from the dung, they fly to the canopy to mate in the sloth's fur, and the whole cycle begins all over again. Sloths also have a special, symbiotic relationship with green …

Jul 8, 2025 · The moths increase the nitrogen content of the sloth’s fur, helping lipid-rich algae grow, which the sloth needs to supplement its limited diet. While the sloth is on the ground, …

Jan 22, 2014 · Scientists have uncovered a mutually beneficial relationship between sloths, moths and algae which enables sloths to maintain their leaf-eating lifestyle.

Mar 9, 2025 · Sloth moth (Bradypophila garbei) is a coprophagous moth that has adapted to live exclusively in the fur of sloths, utilizing sloth dung as a substrate for reproduction.

When they become adult moths, they fly up into the canopy and find a sloth in whose hair they live and hide. There are 3 species of sloth moth, found only on three-toed and two-toed sloths. …

Apr 12, 2022 · Studies have shown that the more moths living in sloth fur, the more nutrients — or “fertilizer” — that can be found there as well, which leads to more tasty algae.

May 22, 2023 · The Brown-throated three-toed sloth’s metabolism, as per its general reputation, is slow. This leads to very specific latrine habits, which some scientists believe enables an …