A. Vulgare Isopods
Updated: Aug 27, 2023
A. vulgare isopods, also known as the common rough woodlouse or pillbug, are small land-dwelling crustaceans that are commonly kept as pets in terrariums or as clean-up crews in bioactive setups. Here is a general care sheet for A. vulgare isopods:
Habitat:
A. vulgare isopods prefer a moist and humid environment, with temperatures between 68-77°F (20-25°C).
They are social creatures and should be kept in groups of at least 10-15 individuals.
Provide a substrate that retains moisture, such as coconut fiber, sphagnum moss, or a mix of organic soil and sand.
Add a layer of leaf litter for them to forage and hide under, as well as pieces of wood or bark for climbing.
Feeding:
A. vulgare isopods are detritivores, meaning they feed on decaying organic matter such as fallen leaves, wood, and fruit.
You can feed them a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, such as apples, carrots, and spinach.
Provide a source of calcium, such as crushed eggshells or cuttlebone, to help with their exoskeleton growth.
Maintenance:
Mist the enclosure with water regularly to maintain humidity levels and prevent the substrate from drying out.
Avoid overfeeding as excess food can cause mold growth and attract pests.
Clean any uneaten food or waste to prevent bacterial buildup and keep the enclosure clean.
Avoid handling them too much, as they are delicate and can easily be injured.
Breeding:
A. vulgare isopods breed readily in the right conditions and can produce offspring quickly.
To encourage breeding, maintain a stable environment with plenty of hiding spots and a consistent food source.
The female will carry her eggs in a brood pouch on her underside until they hatch into tiny juvenile isopods.
To prevent overpopulation, it may be necessary to remove excess isopods or provide a larger enclosure.
Overall, A. vulgare isopods are easy to care for and make fascinating pets or additions to bioactive setups. With proper care, they can live for up to 2-3 years.
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