Armadillidae sp.

Armadillidae sp. Isopod Care Guide

Overview:
Armadillidae sp. isopods, often referred to as pill bugs or rollie pollies, are well-known for their ability to roll into a ball when threatened. These fascinating creatures are hardy and make excellent additions to bioactive terrariums, vivariums, or as pets for isopod enthusiasts.

Habitat Setup:

  • Enclosure:
    A 10-gallon tank is suitable for small to medium-sized colonies of Armadillidae sp. Make sure the enclosure has adequate ventilation and a secure lid to prevent escapes.

  • Substrate:
    Use a moist, well-draining substrate like coconut coir, peat moss, or organic potting soil. A 2-4 inch layerallows them to burrow and forage naturally.

  • Humidity:
    These isopods thrive in moderate to high humidity (60-80%). Mist the enclosure regularly to maintain moisture levels and use a hygrometer to monitor humidity.

  • Temperature:
    Maintain a temperature range of 65-75°F (18-24°C). Avoid fluctuations in temperature, as they can stress the isopods and affect their health.

  • Hiding Spots:
    Provide plenty of hiding spots with cork bark, rocks, and leaf litter. Armadillidae sp. isopods are nocturnal and enjoy being out of sight during the day.

Feeding:

  • Primary Diet:
    These isopods are detritivores, feeding on decaying organic matter like leaf litter, rotting wood, and coconut husk. Providing a variety of decaying plant material is ideal for their diet.

  • Supplementary Food:
    Occasionally offer fresh vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini), fruits (apple, banana), and calcium supplements(crushed eggshells or cuttlebone) to help with molting.

  • Feeding Frequency:
    Feed small amounts every 2-3 days and remove any uneaten food to avoid mold or pest buildup.

Care Tips:

  • Moisture & Ventilation:
    While Armadillidae sp. enjoys a moist environment, it’s important to maintain proper airflow to avoid mold. Ensure the substrate is moist but not soggy, as excessive moisture can lead to mold growth.

  • Tank Cleaning:
    Perform monthly cleanings by removing uneaten food and replacing moldy substrate. If mold appears, reduce misting and replace the affected substrate.

  • Breeding:
    Armadillidae sp. isopods breed well in captivity. Females carry their eggs in a marsupium until they hatch into small juveniles. A stable, well-fed environment will encourage breeding.

Common Issues to Watch:

  • Mold and Excess Moisture:
    Too much moisture can cause mold. If mold appears, reduce the humidity slightly and ensure there’s sufficient ventilation.

  • Pests:
    Keep an eye out for pests like mites or springtails. Maintaining proper substrate care and not overfeeding will help prevent pest infestations.

Conclusion:

Armadillidae sp. isopods are low-maintenance, hardy creatures that make a fantastic addition to any isopod collection. With the right humidity, temperature, and food, these fascinating isopods will thrive in your care, providing both aesthetic beauty and ecological benefits to your setup.