Ideal terrarium cleanup crew (with springtails)
This is for 5 isopods
 
We recommend you add a polystyrene box for live arrival – 6 pack Link HERE or Berry box Link HERE

Armadillidium Vulgare Care Sheet:
Introduction: Armadillidium Vulgare, commonly known as the Common Pillbug or Roly-Poly, is a fascinating and hardy isopod species often kept in captivity for educational purposes and as cleanup crews in terrariums. These small, armored crustaceans are renowned for their ability to roll into a ball when threatened. Proper care is essential to ensure their well-being and thriving in a captive environment.
 
Housing:
1.  Enclosure: Provide a well-ventilated enclosure with secure lids to prevent escapes. A terrarium, plastic container, or glass tank with a secure lid works well.
2.  Substrate: Use a substrate with a mix of coconut coir, sphagnum moss, and decaying leaves. Maintain a substrate depth of at least 2 inches to allow for burrowing.
 
Environmental Conditions:
3. Temperature: Maintain a temperature range between 70-75°F (21-24°C). Avoid extremes and rapid temperature changes.
4.  Humidity: Keep humidity levels around 70-80%. Mist the enclosure regularly to maintain proper moisture levels, ensuring a humid environment.
 
Feeding:
5. Diet: Armadillidium Vulgare are detritivores, feeding on decaying organic matter. Provide a balanced diet of vegetables, fruits, and calcium-rich foods. Leaf litter and bark also serve as a supplementary food source.
6.  Calcium Source: Ensure a steady supply of calcium, such as cuttlebone or crushed eggshells, to support molting and overall exoskeleton health.
OUR Isopod food are a COMPLETE diet for you Isopods - when combined with Nr5 as suplement.
 
Social Structure:
7.  Group Dynamics: Armadillidium Vulgare is social and thrives in groups. Keep multiple individuals together, ensuring a balanced sex ratio to promote a healthy population.
 
Maintenance:
8. Cleaning: Regularly remove uneaten food and feces to maintain a clean environment. This helps prevent mold and bacterial growth.
 
Behavior and Handling:
9. Burrowing Behavior: Provide hiding spots and substrate depth to allow for natural burrowing behavior. This promotes a sense of security for the isopods.
10.  Handling: Minimize handling as much as possible. If handling is necessary, do so gently and with moist hands to avoid injuring the isopods or removing their protective cuticle layer.
 
Breeding:
11. Breeding Conditions: Armadillidium Vulgare reproduce through direct development, meaning they give birth to fully-formed young. Maintain optimal environmental conditions to encourage breeding.
12.  Observation: Observe and document breeding behaviors, such as the appearance of offspring and molting patterns. This can provide valuable insights into the health of the colony.
 
Health Monitoring:
13. Signs of Stress: Watch for signs of stress, such as a decrease in activity, changes in color, or erratic behavior. Adjust environmental conditions accordingly.
14.  Parasite Prevention: Keep a close eye on the isopod colony for any signs of parasites. Isolate and treat affected individuals promptly to prevent the spread of infections.
 
Conclusion: With proper care and attention to their environmental needs, Armadillidium Vulgare can thrive and contribute positively to a captive ecosystem. Regular observation, maintenance, and adherence to their natural behaviors are key to ensuring a happy and healthy colony of these unique isopods.