Isopods For Sale (180)

One of the most popular Porcellio isopods, the Porcellio Echinatus isopods also known as Pill Bugs originate from the European region. These spikey isopods are Portugal natives and make a great option for isopod collectors who want to house medium-sized isopods. They are prolific breeders and easy to keep isopod species. These high-end Porcellio isopods have a bumpy and drastically textured appearance. They are ultimate clean up crew members. The Porcellio Echinatus Isopods are even more bumpy than the Porcellio Scaber species.  A Glimpse Origin: Portugal, Europe Scientific Name: Porcellio Echinatus Difficulty: Low Rarity: Low Temperature: 72 to 82℉ Size: 8mm Humidity: 70 to 80% Favourable Foods: Leaf litter, decaying wood, fish food, calcium An Overview Porcellio Echinatus isopods are beginner-friendly isopods well-known to be an easy to care addition to terrarium and vivarium setups. These spiky isopods are acclaimed by collectors as well as enthusiasts for their distinctive appearance.    Porcellio Echinatus isopods make an excellent choice for beginners. These textured Porcellio isopods have a rugged and charming appeal. They have a hardy texture that can add a touch of intrigue to your isopods’ collection.    Porcellio Echinatus isopods can be low-maintenance pets. These hardy isopods are smaller than scaber isopods. They are excellent cleaners. These European isopods can tolerate semi-arid environments.    These Porcellio isopods can also thrive in moist tropical environments. The Porcellio Echinatus isopods can grow up to a length of 8mm. The Porcellio Echinatus isopods look like someone took the Scaber isopods and compressed them.    These European Porcellio isopods feed on leaf litter as well as dead insects. You can regularly feed these Porcellio isopods rotting wood as well as shrimp. Basic Care You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to the Porcellio Echinatus isopods. You can use terrariums with semi-arid setups to house the Porcellio Echinatus isopods. Maintain the container’s temperature within 72 to 82℉. Don’t keep the enclosure in direct light.  The Porcellio Echinatus isopods can also tolerate moist and tropical setups. You can feed them a balanced diet which includes different types of forest materials and additional supplements of calcium. Feeding Porcellio Echinatus eat materials such as decaying wood as well as decaying matter like leaf litter. You can also feed them additional supplements such as calcium and fish food. Porcellio Echinatus isopods are cuttlefish bone lovers. Food items like limestone can help isopods grow. You can always feed the Porcellio Echinatus isopods ample sources of calcium.  Appearance And Behavior The Porcellio Echinatus isopods are medium-sized isopods. It can grow up to 8mm. Porcellio Echinatus isopods have a spiky appearance. Their dark brown colored bodies with a textured appearance resembles the Scaber isopods a lot.  These Porcellio isopods are the ultimate clean-up crew members.  Porcellio Echinatus isopods are easy to maintain. Porcellio Echinatus isopods have a prolific nature. Habitat Porcellio Echinatus isopods prefer semi-arid to tropical environments. They need moderate ventilation in order to thrive. These Porcellio isopods grow well in groups. You can house the Porcellio Echinatus isopods in warm as well as dry environments. These little creatures love hiding spots in a terrarium setup.  Substrate Mix The substrate mix of Porcellio Echinatus isopods include leaf litter and decaying wood. These Scaber-like isopods can thrive in a bioactive setup with a substrate mix that includes sphagnum moss. You can also add coconut fiber as well as organic compost in the substrate mix of the Porcellio Echinatus isopods. Add sufficient sources of calcium inside the enclosure, like limestone, as well.

Troglodillo Sunset Isopod is one unusual and exotic isopod that is native to Thailand. These beautiful and flat isopods have a yellow face that can sometimes be orange, too. The back colour of the Troglodillo Sunset Isopods can range from dark orange to dark brown. They are precious pets that were previously known as the Sunset Queen. The Troglodillo Sunset Isopods are a beginner-friendly option for first-time isopod collectors. These clean-up crew members thrive in medium-humidity environments.  A Glimpse Origin: Thailand Scientific Name: Troglodillo sp. Difficulty: Low Rarity: High Temperature: 65 to 75℉ Size: 12 mm - 20 mm Humidity: Medium To High Favourable Foods: Decaying organic matter, rotting white wood, forest moss An Overview Troglodillo Sunset Isopods make interesting and beloved pets that are rare to find. These Troglodillo isopods are Thai species characterized by their unique yellow, orange, and dark brown colour combination.    These Thailand origin isopods have a somewhat flat appearance. These bright and elegant pets were previously called the Sunset Queen. These easy to keep and easy to breed isopods are medium body species that can grow from 12 mm to 20 mm in size.    Being a dark cave-like environment thrivers, the Troglodillo Sunset Isopods need a terrarium setup with medium to high level of humidity along with plenty of hiding spaces. Higher temperatures can stress the Troglodillo Sunset Isopods and even lead to death.    The Troglodillo Sunset Isopods can make ideal pets because of their amiable and photogenic appearance that resembles the colours of sunset. Feeding the Troglodillo Sunset Isopods is not difficult either. These detrivores can be fed decaying organic matter, calcium, and forest moss.    The Troglodillo Sunset Isopods are staple food eaters. They love eating decaying leaves of walnut and black berry. The stunning and rare species are available in various color combinations of yellow, orange, and dark brown.  Basic Care You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to the Troglodillo Sunset Isopods. You can use an enclosure setup with 50 to 70 per cent humidity to house the Troglodillo Sunset Isopods.  Maintain the container’s temperature within 65 to 75℉.  It is essential to ensure medium to high humidity within the enclosure.  Don’t keep the enclosure in direct light.  Make use of lichen and forest moss to meet the Troglodillo Sunset Isopods. You can give them a protein-based diet twice a week.  Feeding Troglodillo Sunset Isopods are primarily detrivores. These isopods can be fed rotting white wood and decaying leaves. Troglodillo Sunset Isopods can feed on protein sources from small animals as well as fresh vegetables for hydration. They are fond of sweet fruits and dried flowers. These Troglodillo isopods consume oyster seashells and cuttlebone. They also feed on the excrement of bats and pieces of charcoal. Appearance And Behaviour Troglodillo Sunset Isopods thrive in medium to high humid environments.  They can be a suitable choice for beginners because they are easy to keep as well as easy to breed.  These Troglodillo isopods need leaf litter and flat bark cover in order to thrive in the best way.  These Troglodillo isopods have a somewhat flattened appearance.  They have yellow face that can also be orange sometimes. The Troglodillo Sunset Isopods have dark orange to dark brown bodies. Habitat The Troglodillo Sunset Isopods is a species that adores staying active at night. The Trogodillo isopod owners can keep their bioactive terrarium setup moist with the help of rotting white wood and pieces of moss. Substrate Mix The Troglodillo Sunset Isopods will need a substrate mix with decaying leaves and rotten white wood. You can add forest moss and calcium carbonate inside the terrarium. A great substrate mix for Trogodillo Sunset Isopods can also include rocks and bone pieces. 

One of the most popular Spanish isopods, the Venezillo Parvis Dalmation Isopods, originates from the Southwest European region. This dwarf-sized species are not arguably beginner friendly and make a great fit for distinguished collectors. They are visually striking. They need low maintenance and upkeep. Venezillo Parvis Dalmation Isopods are one of the rarest isopod species that can be kept as pets. A Glimpse Origin: Spain Scientific Name: Venezillo Parvis Dalmation Isopods Difficulty Level: Medium Size: Dwarf Rarity: High Temperature: 70°F to 80℉ Humidity: 70% to 85% Favourite Foods: Decaying Wood, Cucumber, Squash, Carrots An Overview Venezillo Parvis Dalmation Isopods are well-known to be a great addition to vivarium and terrarium setups. These Southwest corner of Europe natives are acclaimed by correctors and enthusiasts alike for their cleanup abilities.    They won’t make an excellent choice for beginners because of their slow reproductive process as well as sensitivity in the terrarium. They possess all the essential cleanup crew abilities.    They help in decomposition of organic matter and maintaining a healthy environment within an enclosure. Being endemicto Spain, Venezillo Parvis Dalmation isopods thrive in moist environments, especially naturalistic and bioactive terrariums.   Venezillo Parvis Dalmation Isopods feed on many different types of foods like vegetables, plant matter, and calcium-rich foods. You can provide a varied diet to these isopods to ensure they get all the essential nutrients to reproduce and grow.  Basic Care You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to Venezillo Parvis Dalmation Isopods.  You can use vivariums and terrariums for housing Venezillo Parvis Dalmation Isopods. There need to be a balanced humidity between 70 to 80 per cent inside. Container’s temperature can be between 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a substrate to avoid loss of moisture. Make sure it consists of biodegradables, leaf litter, and rotting wood. Don’t keep the enclosure in direct light. You can provide hiding places and maintain optimum moisture levels to mimic Venezillo Parvis Dalmation Isopod’s natural habitat. Feeding Venezillo Parvis Dalmation Isopods are critical decomposers. You can feed them with supplements like calcium bones and eggshells to maintain a balanced diet. Leftover food can deteriorate really quickly in moist environments and encourage mold growth. Take out leftover food within 24 hours of application. Appearance And Behavior Venezillo Parvis Dalmation Isopods are dwarf-sized and won’t become increasingly noticeable in a vivarium or terrarium’s environment. They have a white body with dark spots. These isopods love to hide and prefer to burrow deeper into healthy living soil, and improve the soil structure month after month. These isopods can curl themselves up in a rolly-polly ball.  Habitat Venezillo Parvis Dalmation Isopods prefer moist environments, but you will need to retain humidity for them to thrive. They require adequate ventilation, so their locking tub contains abundant biodegradables and appropriate substrate. They make great cleaning enthusiasts and help enrich the soil. Substrate Mix You can add eggs shells, oyster shells, and moss to the substrate mix. You can use a deep natural substrate that includes leaf litter, various barks, and rotten wood. The substrate should be deep enough to prevent them from getting easily hunted.

Bioactive enclosures have become increasingly popular recently, especially among reptile enthusiasts and herpetologists. The good thing about these enclosures is that they are self-sustaining, meaning they use natural microfauna and plants to create a more natural habitat for captive animals. Speaking of which, isopods are a key component of bioactive enclosure. If you plan to include these tiny creatures in your bioactive terrarium, consider Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods. These isopods are known for their beautiful bright colour and flat body. Plus, they are drier than other isopod species. A Glimpse Origin: Coros, Sardinia Scientific Name: Porcellio Spatulatus Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate Size: Up to 20 mm Rarity: Rare Temperature: 18°C - 28°C Humidity: 45-55% Favourite Food: Fruits, greens, veggies, decaying leaves, fish food An Overview Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods are comparatively rarer than other isopod species. They are mostly found in Coros, Sardinia and boast an impressive, flat body. But the most unique thing about these isopods is the bright colour that is unlike any other. These terrestrial crustaceans belong to the Porcellionidae family and are known for their spatula-shaped bodies. Many people prefer to keep these isopods because they are excellent decomposers. They feed on organic matter and play a crucial role in breaking down decaying plant materials in their natural habitat.  Due to their unique appearance, they make a great addition to a bioactive enclosure. Additionally, they contribute to nutrient cycling, which is another great reason to have these isopods. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros Isopods: Basic Care Keeping these isopods can be a great experience. But before you get them home, you should educate yourself about their care requirements. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods require a slightly drier setup than other isopods. So, you can use a well-ventilated container or terrarium to house these isopods.  Ensure the enclosure is large enough for the isopods to move around and provide hiding spots using bark, leaves, and logs. The ideal temperature for these isopods is between 18°C and 28°C. By maintaining this temperature range, you can ensure that your isopods are happy and stress-free. Since these isopods require less humidity, the ideal range is between 45 and 55%. To maintain the correct humidity level, you can lightly mist the enclosure. It is important to maintain adequate airflow inside the enclosure at all times. Failure to do so can lead to mould growth, harming your isopods. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros Isopods: Feeding Whether it is Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods or any other species, providing them with a balanced diet is important. Speaking of which, these isopods feed primarily on decaying plant material. But they also like fresh fruits, greens, and vegetables. You can provide them with decaying wood and leaf litter for primary food. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods love rotting white wood, so offer plenty for those who don't know. These organic materials mimic what they consume in the wild and are also good for their health. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods also enjoy fresh vegetables and fruits. It's a good idea to provide them in small amounts so they don't get wasted. You can add fish food, dried shrimp, and fish flakes to their diet for protein. This is important to ensure that they receive a balanced nutrition. Also, don't forget to add different forms of calcium, like limestone granules and oyster seashells. Last but not least, remove uneaten food to prevent bacterial and mould growth inside the enclosure. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros Isopods: Appearance And Behaviour Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods are visually striking creatures and can grow up to 20 mm. Besides the bright colour, Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods have a unique body shape, which makes them stand out from other isopods. The uropods found at the end of their bodies are wide and flat, which helps them to balance and move with ease. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods have a hard, segmented exoskeleton that protects them from predators. Additionally, they exhibit a wide range of colours, which makes them even more appealing. These isopods are highly active in the night. They will likely explore their surroundings, especially during dusk or dawn.  Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods are known to cluster together under leaf litter or bark. That's where they seek shelter during the day. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros Isopods: Habitat Porcellio Spatulatus Coros requires a suitable environment to thrive and grow. To replicate their natural habitat in a terrarium, mimicking the forest floors they are accustomed to is important. When setting up their habitat, you should start with hiding spots. You can use bark, stones, and wood pieces to create hiding areas for your isopods. These tiny creatures use hiding spots to seek shelter and feel safe when threatened. You must also add a layer of leaf litter to make them feel more comfortable inside the enclosure. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods use leaf litter as food and also to burrow in. As mentioned, Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods don't require high humidity levels. This means you can use damp moss to slightly moist the enclosure. Also, make sure that there are dry parts inside the terrarium. This way, you can provide a range of humidity levels to your isopods. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros Isopods: Substrate Mix It is essential to use a proper substrate mix, be it Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods or any other species. That's because it helps maintain the correct humidity and temperature levels inside the enclosure. A suitable substrate mix can provide your isopods with a comfortable environment to live and reproduce. Coco fibre is a great base substrate for isopods because it allows them to burrow and retain moisture. Adding a layer of leaf litter on top of the substrate can provide your isopods with food and shelter. Decaying wood is essential as it mimics their natural habitat and provides additional food. Additionally, you can add crushed eggshells or cuttlebone to give a rich calcium source for your isopods. This is essential for the development of their exoskeleton.

Armadillidium Beieri Isopods are gaining popularity in the hobby due to their energetic nature and appearance. It doesn't take a lot of effort to have these isopods as pets. All you have to do is provide them with a safe environment and meet the care requirements. Armadillidium Beieri Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Greece Scientific Name: Armadillidium Beieri Difficulty Level: Easy Size: 12-18 mm Rarity: Medium Temperature: 17 – 28°C Humidity: 60 – 70% Favourite Foods: Veggies, fruits, greens, decaying leaves, fish food, forest moss, rotting white wood, lichen, moulting of reptiles and invertebrates Armadillidium Beieri Isopods: An Overview Armadillidium Beieri happens to be a unique isopod species that is commonly known as "pill bugs." An interesting thing about these isopods is that they roll into a tight ball whenever threatened. This particular species belongs to the Armadillidiidae family, known for its rolling defence mechanism that sets them apart from other isopods. Many collectors and hobbyists prefer Armadillidium Beieri mainly because of its behaviour and striking appearance. This species originated in Greece, but it is also found in other regions of Europe, most commonly in mountainous areas where the weather is cool and humid. If you are considering adding Armadillidium Beieri to your collection, you must understand the requirements for taking care. Unlike other isopods, Armadillidium Beieri is not difficult to care for but needs the right humidity and temperature to thrive. Armadillidium Beieri Isopods: Basic Care Let us now talk about the basic care requirements of Armadillidium Beieri. Following the instructions is important if you want your isopods to be happy and healthy. You need a well-ventilated enclosure to keep Armadillidium Beieri isopods. In this case, you can use a plastic or glass terrarium, especially those with lids. This will help retain moisture and allow proper airflow within the enclosure. The ideal temperature for Armadillidium Beieri is between 17°C and 28°C. You can maintain the right temperature by keeping them away from extreme cold or heat. During winter, you can use heating pads or lamps to keep the enclosure warm. As far as the humidity level is concerned, make sure it is between 60-70%. You can easily achieve this by misting the enclosure regularly. Alternatively, you can use a moisture-retaining substrate. It is important to make sure that the enclosure is big enough for the isopods to roam and explore freely. It is recommended you choose 10 gallons for a small colony. Like other isopods, Armadillidium Beieri enjoys hiding places in their enclosure, providing them with a sense of security and courage. Also, they need hiding spots to rest. In this case, you can use items like cork bark, leaf litter, or rocks to create a safe environment within the enclosure. , Armadillidium Beieri needs proper ventilation, so look for one with adequate ventilation. This is crucial to preventing mould growth or excess dampness, which can hurt your isopods' health. Armadillidium Beieri Isopods: Feeding Before you include them in your collection, you must know that Armadillidium Beieri isopods are natural detritivores. This means they feed on decaying organic matter like leaf litter, decaying wood, and plant matter. The primary diet of Armadillidium Beieri isopods includes plant matter, leaf litter, and decaying wood. They prefer oak, beech, and magnolia leaves the most in leaf litter. In addition to the primary diet, you should also provide them with fresh vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and cucumbers. As for their protein source, you can give them fish flakes, dried shrimp, or cuttlebone. It is also crucial to provide them with sufficient calcium. A cuttlebone or a calcium-rich supplement would be fine for this. Armadillidium Beieri Isopods: Appearance And Behaviour Armadillidium Beieri isopods have a segmented body with a hard, greyish exoskeleton that is slightly rounded. This helps them to roll into a ball when threatened. They are usually grey or brown, but some of them may display subtle colour variations depending on their diet and environment. These isopods can grow up to 12-18 mm when fully mature. This makes them a medium-sized species. They are mainly active at night and enjoy creating burrows in the substrate. They tend to hide under objects to rest and protect themselves from enemies. Since isopods are social animals, they tend to thrive in groups. Armadillidium Beieri Isopods: Habitat Armadillidium Beieri isopods are commonly found in forest areas and mountainous regions with cool and humid climates. They are native to Greece and tend to thrive in the areas with plenty of leaf litter, decaying wood, and other organic matter. This provides a perfect environment for these small creatures to grow and multiply. Talking about their natural habitat is similar to a forest floor environment, where they can hide under rocks, logs, or leaves. To keep these isopods in a terrarium, it is important to create a similar habitat. This way, you can keep them happy and healthy in your home. Another important thing to note is the humidity level. Unless you maintain the right humidity within the enclosure, they may not survive. In the wild, they live in a habitat with plenty of moisture, so make sure you do the same when keeping them in an enclosure. Armadillidium Beieri Isopods: Substrate Mix The substrate mix you choose for Armadillidium Beieri plays a crucial role in maintaining the environment for these isopods. A well-prepared substrate helps retain moisture and provides a safe place to thrive and maintain good overall health. You can use a mix of coco fibre, organic topsoil, and sand for the base substrate. This mixture helps retain moisture and allows them to burrow in, extending their life while managing their health. You can use leaf litter and spread it over the base substrate to provide an extra layer of moisture retention and shelter. Adding crushed eggshells or cuttlebone to the substrate is also a good idea, as it offers a natural source of calcium.

Armadillidium peraccae isopods are broad and bulky and are established quickly in terrariums and vivariums. They are active and social and are great bio-cleanup agents. Due to its unique color and shell and ease of maintenance, it has gained popularity among isopod lovers.  Armadillidium Peraccae Isopods: Key Points Place of Origin: Greece Scientific Name: Armadillidium peraccae Temperature Range: 68℉-77℉ Breeding Rate: Moderate Difficulty level: Easy Size: 1.8 cm Rareness: low Humidity Range: 45%-55% Preferred Diet: potatoes, squash, carrots Supplements in Addition: limestone, cuttlebone, supreme isopod chow Armadillidium Peraccae Isopods: Introduction The Armadillidium Peraccae is native to Greece. The species name “peraccae” is named in honor of Italian herpetologist Mario Giacinto Peracca around the 19th and 20th centuries. Armadillidium Peraccae is a unique species that is relatively easy to care for and has an intriguing shell texture and color. This fascinating and common species is a wonderful addition to the isopod collection. Armadillidium Peraccae Isopods: Characteristics and Physical Traits The genus name “Armadillidium” means “little armored one.”  These species are blueish slate grey in color. They are broad, have a unique-looking shell, and have small bumps on their carapace. These species are roly polies, i.e., they roll into a ball when threatened.  This species has a primordial appearance and is reminiscent of trilobites.   These medium-sized isopods are active and social.  Peraccae isopods thrive in both arid and temperate environments. These critters are highly active during the night and early morning. These are not widely distributed outside of their native land, although they are common among isopod enthusiasts. Due to its ease of maintenance and tolerance to various climates, they are common among hobbyists. Larger amphibians and reptiles consume the adult isopods, except poison dart frogs. They are highly prolific species, and they produce before reaching adulthood.  These species are hardy and grow reasonably quickly. Armadillidium Peracce Isopods: Diet These species are primarily detritivores in nature. In the wild, these creatures have a large appetite and consume dried leaves, rotting wood, and feces. For a balanced diet, these species are fed with a wide range of food. These include potatoes, fruits, vegetable scraps along with isopod food mix to meet all the nutritional requirements. Make sure to feed them twice a week to avoid overfeeding.  The Armadillidium Peracce isopods require lots of calcium and protein for their diet. This is to maintain their tough exoskeleton and for molting. Therefore, these species require protein three times a week, along with calcium supplements like calcium powder and cuttlebone. This helps to keep the isopods healthy and produce offspring.  Armadillidium Peracce Isopods: Breeding They are one of the most proficient species among other isopod species.  They produce offspring throughout the year.  The young isopods are hearty, and they grow pretty quickly.  They reproduce before reaching adulthood and, therefore, may produce large broods.  When culturing these species, make sure to provide the necessary moisture, around 50%, to make the environment ideal for breeding. When the population exceeds, make sure to prepare another enclosure and separate new broods from old ones.  Armadillidium Peracce Isopods: Care These critters are easy to maintain and are less demanding when compared to other species. They require a basic organic compost as a substrate mix with leaf litter scattered on top of the substrate mix. Provide suitable hides such as bark slabs and moisture. These species require medium to high ventilation. Temperature for the enclosure may not affect the isopods as they are tolerant in nature. It is crucial to avoid extreme temperatures as it may stress these critters.  When providing moisture, it is important to maintain a moisture gradient. The inconsistent atmosphere may affect the species during molting. Therefore, it is important to maintain a damp and dry environment by 30/70. To maintain the moisture, mist the area with sphagnum moss and leave the rest dry.  Armadillidium Peraccae Isopods: Artificial Setup For a successful setup, use plastic shoe box tubs of 6 qt to 32 qt. Locking tubs is optional, but it may provide added security.  Glass containers with ventilations provided can also be a better alternative, as they help people see better. It is best for those who like to watch these critters crawl around in the enclosure.  Make small holes on the side of the container for cross-ventilation and to prevent mold.  Add pre-soaked substrate mix into the container. Make sure to provide a thick bedding of 1-3 inches.  Distribute dried leaves inside the enclosure. Make sure to clean the leaves with water and dry them before adding them to the enclosure. Add ⅕ th of the container with sphagnum moss and mist the area with moss. This gives isopods the room they need to osmoregulate and maintain homeostasis. Add plenty of rotten white wood as they prefer hiding underneath bark. Provide a calcium supplement into the enclosure. Adding a cuttlebone piece can help if the substrate doesn’t have any other calcium supplement.  Add egg shells or crushed calcium carbonate as a substitute for the cuttlebone.  Armadillidium Peraccae Isopods: Substrate These species prefer a less humid habitat; therefore, one must make sure to maintain the moisture accordingly. When providing substrate mix for the peraccae isopods, it is important to provide the best, especially for molting. Providing organic compost soil can act as a base for the substrate. Apart from the soil, you can opt for ABG substrate mix or other premium isopod mix for the substrate. These pre-mixed substrates include all the elements that will help an isopod breed and live. They consist of:  Organic potting soil Flake soil Sphagnum moss Dried and decayed leaves Oyster sea shell as a supplement Pour the substrate into an enclosure and make sure the depth is right. It is crucial that you never let the substrate get too dry. When the substrate starts to seem more like frass than the substrate, replace it entirely and add more when needed. Take care not to disturb the isopod in molting. In order to prevent attracting harmful pests, any uneaten food items added within 24 hours must always be removed.  

Armadillidium ruffoi isopod is an extraordinarily striking species of isopods found in the mountains of Northern Italy. The distribution armadillidium ruffoi is highly restricted, as it is endemic to Northern Italy and has been primarily recorded in the Province of Verona. All the known specimens have been collected from this limited area, highlighting the species' rarity and restricted range. These species breed very slowly and take time to populate. Therefore, they are ideal for hobbyists and isopod enthusiasts who prefer brood-size animals that don’t overpopulate. Armadillidium ruffoi isopods like moisture and humidity and are not tolerant to drought. These species require regular monitoring and care. Therefore, they are moderately difficult to care for. Armadillidium ruffoi is considered the southernmost variety within its group. The following sections will provide a detailed description armadillidium ruffoi, covering its physical and ecological characteristics. Overview Place of Origin: Northern Italy Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Arthropoda Subphylum: Crustaceans Order: Isopoda Family: Armadillidiidae Genus: Armadillidium Species: Armadillidium ruffoi The taxonomy Armadillidium ruffoi belongs to places it within the 'Marginiferae' section of its genus, a group characterized by distinctive morphological features such as the shape of the telson and margin of the pereion, and it is closely related to similar species like A. germanicum, with which it may be conspecific. Key Points Maintenance Effort: low to medium Ideal Temperature Range: 62℉-78℉ Reproduction Rate: Slow Ventilation: high General Size: Armadillidium ruffoi is a medium sized species, reaching maximum dimensions of approximately 16 × 6.5 mm. This represents the species' maximum dimensions. Rareness: High Humidity Range: 60%-75% Preferred Diet: fruits, vegetables, meat scraps Supplements in Addition: limestone, cuttlefish bone Abstract Armadillidium ruffoi, or Ruffo’s Pill Woodlouse, falls under the “Marginiferae” section of the genus. Armadillidium ruffoi is closely related to other species within this section. The Armadillidium genus are the true pill bugs, that roll into a ball when they sense danger or any disturbance. These species have side edges that bend upwards, forming a lobe. Their dark exoskeleton with bright yellow spots and white skirts makes them appear strikingly beautiful and widely sought after. The body consists of well-defined tergites, distinctive coloration patterns, and prominent lateral lobes. A distinct longitudinal groove is present behind the frontal shield, serving as a key identification feature. These species are endemic to Italy and hence they are super rare. These isopods are collected among enthusiasts that love to collect various rare species across the world. Physical Traits of Armadillidium Ruffoi Isopods Shiny Gator Isopods have a dark carapace with yellow irregular spots and white skirts. These spots are formed in three longitudinal rows. Its tergites are smooth with slight granulation or humps on the exterior part. They are medium to large-sized isopods with beautiful shapes. The skirts of the isopods are bent upwards and have various morphs ranging from white to yellowish orange. They are roly polys, i.e., they roll into a ball when they are threatened. These species are not drought tolerant; therefore, moisture is important for them. They are detritivores in nature. They are shy creatures, but they become active when in large numbers. These species require ample ventilation and high humidity for their survival. They reproduce slower than other species and have large broods. These species grow very slowly to reach adulthood. Have an average lifespan of 2.5 years. The head features a prominent frontal shield with a slightly convex upper margin that surpasses the anterior edge of the head, and its lateral angles are nearly right angles. The side edges of the forehead bend upwards into distinct lobes and triangular lobes with rounded upper margins, forming a frontal brim where the lobes lie against the frontal shield. The secondary antennae are characterized by triangular lobes and rounded upper margins. The tergites display a faded gray background with irregular whitish spots; these spots form three longitudinal rows, with the median one being more prominent, and a spot occurs in the middle of the posterior margin of the head. The posterior parts of the tergites may have a few small granulations or small granulations. The epimera are noted for their whitish corners and are irregularly brightened, especially along the hind margins. The telson is shaped with straight sides and a broadly truncated tip, with a distinctive apical or apical part. In males, the seventh pereiopod has a ventrally straight ischium and a hair field, which are important sexual characters. The first pair of pleopods features a posterior lobe with an acute exopodite. Stock of Armadillidium ruffoi is available for breeding or sale. Armadillidium Ruffoi Isopods: Diet Though these species consume on dead and decaying organic debris, maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for an isopod's health. Especially if these species are kept in a closed setting. It is important to provide nutritious food like vegetable pieces, greens and vegetable scraps in small quantities to maintain their health. These isopods require high calcium and protein for a healthy exoskeleton. Therefore, meat scraps and dried shrimp pieces help them provide the necessary protein and calcium powder; cuttlebone, eggshells, and limestone help to provide calcium. It is crucial to provide small quantities of food in the beginning. After analyzing their food intake, one can gradually increase the quantity. Although these species have a voracious appetite, it is important to feed them a necessary amount to prevent any excess and avoid attracting molds and pests.  Morphs of Armadillidium Ruffoi Isopods There is a morph of Armadillidium Ruffoi called "Orange Skirt" isopods.  These species are rare and are newly discovered near Verona, Italy.  These critters have dark exoskeletons with white spots on their exoskeleton, unlike the regular yellow spots in wild species.  The skirt is yellowish-orange and is thus named the "orange skirt."  Armadillidium Ruffoi Isopods: Natural Habitat In Northern Italy, during the summer season, the temperature is typically between 65℉ and 85℉. Almost nothing is known about the detailed ecology and behavior of Armadillidium ruffoi in the wild. The specimens collected for study have primarily been found in and around caves in Northern Italy. Due to this temperature, it is ideal for the isopods to thrive in the wild. They are typically found in and around caves where moisture and humidity is available. These species tend to hide but are active under leaves and bark of rotting hardwood. Armadillidium Ruffoi Isopods: How to Build an Enclosure To make an enclosure, it is important to start off with a basic 14.1-liter plastic box as an enclosure. Provide three ventilation windows around the enclosure, leaving one side, and cover the openings with wire mesh.  Adding egg crates creates barriers between old and new isopod colonies while providing them with a surface to climb and explore. When adding food into the enclosure, as necessary quantity depending on the size of the culture. Add vegetables and fruits, an isopod bug burger for overall nutrition, calcium powder, eggshells, and cuttlebone for calcium.  Place large pieces of decaying hardwood flat on the substrate in the enclosure for the isopod colonies to hide. Add lots of dried rotting leaves to the enclosure, as the leaves are the primary source of food and act as a hiding space. The leaves and bark also help elevate the enclosure's aesthetics and mimic the isopod colonies' natural surroundings. Clean the enclosure to prevent pests. Molds, gnats, and fruit flies affect the health of isopods. Mist the enclosure occasionally with water to keep it moist. Make sure to prevent water from accumulating in the base. Monitor the temperature and humidity of the enclosure for a healthy living isopod brood.  Combining all the elements, you can provide a suitable home for the isopods to breed and thrive. Armadillidium Ruffoi Isopods: Substrate Mix for the Isopod For the substrate mix for Armadillidium Ruffoi, one can opt for a basic ABG substrate mix. These mixes are pre-made and have all the necessary elements to support the biodiversity inside the enclosure.  The ABG mix includes fur bark, black earth soil, hummus, and organic compost soil. Worm castings can be included in the mix as they provide a nutritious food source for the isopods. Crunched-up leaf litter and charcoal can be included in the mix. Charcoal is porous in nature, and it can help with water retention and aeration, which is necessary for the isopods. Sea soil can also be included in the mixture as it may contain decomposed fish emulsion, providing nutrition to the isopods. After adding the substrate mix into the enclosure, add elements like wooden bark, sphagnum moss, and dried leaves for a touch of aesthetics and to mimic their natural environment.  When combining them, you get a complete substrate mix that retains moisture, replicates their natural habitat and provides a healthy ecosystem within the biosphere.  Care and Maintenance Tips for Armadillidium Ruffoi Isopods Caring for Armadillidium ruffoi isopods requires attention to detail and a commitment to replicating their natural environment. As terrestrial isopods, they thrive in enclosures that maintain a consistent humidity level and a stable temperature between 18-22°C. Using a substrate mix designed for armadillidium species—such as a blend of peat moss, soil, and sand—helps create a supportive base for their daily activities. A key aspect of their care is providing a moisture gradient within the enclosure. By keeping one side of the habitat drier and the other more humid, you allow the isopods to self-regulate their body moisture, which is essential for their health. Including a shallow water dish with a rough surface ensures they have access to water without the risk of drowning. Feeding should be approached with variety and moderation. Offer small quantities of decaying plant matter, vegetable scraps, and commercial isopod food to keep your Armadillidium ruffoi healthy and active. Regularly remove uneaten food to prevent mold and bacteria, which can be harmful to isopods. Routine cleaning of the enclosure is vital to maintain a healthy environment. Remove waste and replace substrate as needed to avoid the buildup of harmful microorganisms. When it comes to handling, remember that Armadillidium ruffoi are sensitive to stress and can be easily injured, so limit direct contact and observe them in their enclosure as much as possible. With the right mix of care and attention, these isopods will thrive and display their fascinating natural behaviors. Purchase and Availability of Armadillidium Ruffoi Isopods Armadillidium ruffoi isopods are a prized addition to any collection of terrestrial isopods, but their rarity means they are not always easy to find. When looking to purchase this unique species, it’s best to seek out reputable breeders or specialty pet stores with experience in armadillidium care. Researching the seller’s background and reviews can help ensure you receive healthy, well-cared-for isopods. The price of Armadillidium ruffoi isopods can vary significantly based on the quantity you wish to purchase, the size and quality of the specimens, and the current availability in the hobby. As a rare and exotic species, they often command a higher price than more common armadillidium species, reflecting their unique characteristics and the challenges involved in breeding them. When buying, always confirm that the isopods are active, healthy, and come with clear care instructions. Many reputable sellers offer a health guarantee and ongoing support, which is especially valuable for those new to keeping this species. For dedicated enthusiasts, the opportunity to work with Armadillidium ruffoi isopods is both rewarding and educational, offering a chance to observe one of the most distinct and sought-after members of the armadillidium genus. Whether you’re expanding your collection or starting out, acquiring these isopods in the right quantity and from a trusted source is key to a successful and enjoyable experience.