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Sloth and Moths: A Mutually Beneficial Relationship

November 6, 2014

The three-toed sloth (Bradypus variegatus) has one of the most nutritionally poor diets of any mammal species. Most of its calories come from jungle leaves, which are tough, rubbery and filled with toxins. Moths living in the sloth’s fur are thought to help provide additional sustenance by supporting the growth of algae, which the sloth eats.