Discover the spectacular clowns of the isopod world! Giant Omis isopods represent one of the most vibrant and eye-catching locality variants of the legendary Armadillidium klugii species, showcasing incredible size and dazzling coloration patterns that earned them their "clown" nickname. Originally from the beautiful coastal city of Omiš in Croatia, these remarkable specimens combine impressive adult size with stunning color displays featuring bright spots, vivid patterns, and complex markings that make them absolutely mesmerizing to observe. Perfect for beginners ready to experience premium Armadillidium beauty with manageable care requirements.
A Glimpse
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Origin: Omiš, Croatia
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Scientific Name: Armadillidium klugii 'Omiš'
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Difficulty Level: Beginner
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Adult Size: Up to 15mm+ (0.6+ inches)
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Rarity: Medium-High
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Temperature: 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C)
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Humidity: 50% to 70% with moisture gradient
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Favorite Foods: Leaf litter, vegetables, fish food, rotting wood
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Supplements: Calcium sources and protein
Overview
Giant Omis isopods represent one of the most spectacular and sought-after locality variants of the famous Armadillidium klugii "clown" isopods, originating from the stunning Adriatic coastal city of Omiš in Croatia. These captivating specimens showcase the incredible genetic diversity within the klugii species, displaying vibrant coloration patterns that range from striking spotted designs to complex geometric markings in brilliant yellows, oranges, reds, and whites against darker base colors. True to their "Giant" designation, they reach impressive sizes that make them substantial and easily observable specimens. Their nickname "clown isopods" perfectly captures their whimsical, colorful appearance that instantly draws attention and brings joy to any bioactive setup. Despite their premium appearance, they maintain the beginner-friendly characteristics that make Armadillidium species legendary - incredible hardiness, reliable breeding, and forgiving care requirements.
Basic Care
Giant Omis isopods are excellent for beginners ready to step up to more colorful species while experienced keepers will appreciate their stunning beauty and reliable nature. They thrive in slightly elevated room temperatures between 65-85°F, with the higher end of this range promoting faster establishment and breeding. Unlike tropical species, they prefer temperate to semi-arid conditions with moderate humidity between 50-70%. The key to success is creating distinct moisture gradients - approximately one-third of their enclosure should remain consistently damp while the majority stays well-ventilated and moderately humid. These robust isopods actually prefer good airflow and can handle drier conditions than many species, making them forgiving for keepers still learning proper ventilation balance. They may take 3-4 months to fully establish and begin breeding, but patience is rewarded with stunning displays of colorful offspring.
Feeding
Calcium
- Cuttlefish bone pieces (essential for their colorful exoskeletons)
- Crushed eggshells mixed into substrate
- Crushed oyster shell
- Limestone granules for ongoing supplementation
Protein (Twice Weekly)
- Freeze-dried shrimp (place on dry side)
- High-quality fish flakes or pellets
- Freeze-dried minnows
- Dried bloodworms
- Commercial isopod protein supplements
Primary Diet
- Abundant dried leaf litter (oak, maple, magnolia preferred)
- Soft rotting wood pieces
- Fresh vegetables (carrot, cucumber, squash, sweet potato)
- Commercial isopod pellets as supplements
- Forest materials and organic matter
Appearance and Behaviour
Giant Omis isopods are absolutely spectacular specimens that perfectly demonstrate why Armadillidium klugii earned the "clown" nickname. Adults reach impressive 15mm+ lengths with robust, dome-shaped bodies that showcase brilliant coloration patterns unique to each individual. Their most striking features are the vivid colored spots, stripes, and geometric patterns that cover their carapaces in combinations of bright yellows, oranges, reds, and whites against darker backgrounds. The specific patterns and color intensity can vary significantly between individuals, making each specimen a unique work of natural art. They exhibit the classic Armadillidium conglobation ability, rolling into perfect colourful spheres when threatened. Initially shy, they become more confident and active as colonies establish, displaying fascinating social behaviors and surprisingly bold foraging activities. Their larger size makes them excellent for observation and handling when necessary.
Habitat
A minimum 6-quart container works for starter colonies, while established groups thrive in 12+ quart setups or 10+ gallon terrariums that showcase their impressive size and colorful displays. Substrate depth should be 2-3 inches to support their natural behaviors and provide adequate moisture retention zones. Create distinct environmental gradients with approximately one-third of the enclosure maintained as consistently damp using quality sphagnum moss, while the remainder stays well-ventilated and moderately humid. Cork bark pieces are absolutely essential - they're the preferred hiding spots that help these initially shy isopods feel secure and regulate their moisture needs. Magnolia pods and leaves are particularly appreciated additions. Excellent ventilation is crucial to prevent stagnation while maintaining proper humidity zones.
Substrate Mix
Create the ideal environment with this proven mixture:
Base Layer (70%):
- Quality organic topsoil (pesticide and fertilizer-free)
- Aged deciduous leaf mold for natural decomposition
- Small amount of peat moss for moisture retention
Organic Amendments (20%):
- Soft rotting wood pieces (10% - essential nutrition source)
- Aged bark pieces
- Earthworm castings for soil fertility
Mineral Supplements (10%):
- Limestone granules (essential for their colorful exoskeletons)
- Crushed oyster shell pieces
- Optional: Fine sand for drainage
Moisture Management:
Maintain substrate that feels like a well-wrung sponge in the designated damp zones, never waterlogged. The dry areas should remain just slightly humid to the touch but well-aerated. Giant Omis prefer drier conditions overall with localized wet areas for regulation, making them more forgiving than tropical species. Monitor with gentle substrate compression - damp areas should produce a drop when squeezed, while dry areas should feel barely moist and spring back quickly. Place protein foods exclusively on the dry side to prevent spoilage.
Special Considerations:
Giant Omis isopods have higher calcium and protein requirements than many species, which supports their impressive size and vibrant coloration. They benefit from varied hiding spots including cork bark flats, rotting wood slabs, and leaf litter coverage on both damp and dry sides. Their Croatian coastal origins mean they're adapted to temperate Mediterranean conditions with seasonal variations, making them quite adaptable to standard room temperatures. Consistency in care promotes the best coloration development and breeding success in these stunning specimens.
