The Gem Mix represents a carefully curated collection of Armadillidium vulgare colour morphs, bringing together various genetic expressions of the common pill bug in one diverse colony. These classic European isopods offer the perfect introduction to the world of isopod keeping, combining hardiness with visual variety. Each culture contains a mix of colors that may include orange, yellow, grey, and pied variations, creating a living kaleidoscope that evolves as your colony grows.
A Glimpse
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Origin: Europe (Captive Bred)
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Scientific Name: Armadillidium vulgare 'Gem Mix'
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Difficulty Level: Easy
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Adult Size: Up to 20mm (0.79 inches)
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Rarity: Common
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Temperature: 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C)
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Humidity: 40% to 60% with moisture gradient
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Favorite Foods: Hardwood leaf litter, decaying wood, vegetables
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Supplements: Fish flakes, dried shrimp, calcium sources
Overview
The Gem Mix brings together multiple color morphs of the reliable Armadillidium vulgare, one of the most widespread terrestrial isopods in the world. True to their "roly-poly" nickname, these isopods can roll into a perfect ball when threatened - a defense mechanism that never gets old. What makes the Gem Mix special is the genetic diversity within each culture, offering the excitement of seeing different colors emerge with each new generation. While individual morphs may breed true, the mixed nature of these colonies means you'll always have visual variety in your enclosure.
These Mediterranean natives have adapted brilliantly to life across Europe and beyond, making them exceptionally forgiving of minor husbandry mistakes. They're active during both day and night, providing plenty of opportunities to observe their social behaviors and feeding patterns.
Basic Care
Enclosure Setup:
- Minimum 5-litre container for starter colonies (10-15 individuals)
- Well-ventilated lid essential - these isopods prefer good airflow
- 2-3 inch substrate layer (avoid overly moisture-retentive substrates)
- Mix of dry and moist zones crucial for proper molting
- Cork bark and egg cartons for hiding spots
- Leaf litter layer for food and shelter
Substrate Recommendations:
- 40% organic compost or forest humus
- 30% decomposed hardwood
- 20% crushed leaf litter
- 10% calcium source (crushed limestone or cuttlebone)
Environmental Conditions: Unlike tropical species, A. vulgare prefers moderate conditions with excellent ventilation. Maintain one end of the enclosure slightly moist while keeping the other end dry. This species is particularly susceptible to overly wet conditions, which can lead to bacterial infections. Mist lightly once or twice weekly, focusing on one side only.
Feeding: Feed once or twice weekly with portions consumed within 24-48 hours. Remove uneaten fresh foods promptly to prevent mold. Primary diet should consist of dried oak and beech leaves, supplemented with vegetables like carrot, squash, and potato. Protein supplements such as fish flakes or dried minnows should be offered sparingly, once every two weeks.
Breeding Notes
Gem Mix colonies typically establish well within 2-3 months. Females carry eggs in a marsupium (brood pouch) for approximately 4 weeks before releasing fully formed young. With proper conditions, expect steady reproduction year-round, though breeding naturally slows during cooler months. The mixed genetics mean offspring colors can be somewhat unpredictable, adding an element of surprise to each new generation.
The PostPods Difference
Our Gem Mix cultures are established from multiple genetic lines to ensure maximum diversity. Each culture contains a minimum of 10 individuals with varied colour expressions, giving you the best start for a thriving, visually interesting colony.
