Armadillidium granulatum is a fascinating species of terrestrial isopod prized by hobbyists for its unique appearance and hardiness. These isopods are ideal for both dedicated bioactive enclosures and standalone isopod colonies.
Key Features:
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Appearance:
- Smooth, segmented exoskeleton with subtle textured granules.
- Light gray to beige coloration, often with a faint pattern, blending well with naturalistic setups.
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Behavior:
- Excellent at rolling into a ball (conglobation) when disturbed, offering a defense mechanism against predators.
- Active foragers and decomposers, making them great for maintaining a bioactive substrate.
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Size:
- Medium-sized isopod species, typically reaching up to 1.5 cm when fully grown.
Care Requirements:
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Habitat:
- Thrive in well-ventilated containers or terrariums with moderate to high humidity (60%-80%).
- Provide a mix of coco fiber, leaf litter, and decaying wood as substrate.
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Temperature:
- Prefer temperatures between 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C).
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Diet:
- Omnivorous: Feed on decaying leaves, wood, fruits, vegetables, and supplementary protein (e.g., fish flakes or dried shrimp).
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Special Needs:
- Require plenty of calcium for healthy exoskeleton development; offer cuttlebone or powdered calcium.
Breeding:
Armadillidium granulatum is a prolific breeder under the right conditions. Provide plenty of hiding spaces like cork bark and ensure consistent humidity to encourage reproduction. Juveniles are small but grow quickly with adequate food and care.
Fun Fact:
Unlike some other isopod species, Armadillidium granulatum prefers moderate moisture levels, making them more tolerant of drier conditions.
Perfect for hobbyists looking for a unique addition to their terrariums or those building bioactive reptile and amphibian enclosures. These little crustaceans are both functional and beautiful!
