"Rough Roly Poly" isopods (Armadillidium peraccae)

Armadillidium peraccae, widely known as Rough Roly Poly, is an intriguing isopod species from the Armadillidiidae family. These terrestrial crustaceans are a favorite among exotic pet enthusiasts and bioactive terrarium keepers due to their distinct, rugged look and resilient nature.

Appearance and Traits:

• Length: Reaches about 12–15 mm at full maturity.
• Color: Displays earthy tones of gray, brown, or tan, often with spotted or marbled patterns for natural camouflage.
• Surface: Features a coarse, bumpy exoskeleton, setting them apart from smoother relatives like Armadillidium vulgare.
• Protection: They curl into a compact ball (volvation) as a defense when disturbed.

Environment and Maintenance:

• Natural Habitat: Native to Mediterranean areas, they do best in moderately moist settings with proper airflow. A substrate resembling forest floor debris and soil works well.
• Climate Needs: Keep temperatures at 68–78°F (20–25°C) and humidity levels around 60–70%.
• Substrate Mix: Combine coconut fiber, sphagnum moss, and fallen leaves, adding bark pieces and calcium sources like cuttlebone for enrichment.
• Diet: As omnivorous scavengers, they consume decomposing matter, leaf debris, and leftover vegetables. Offer protein treats like fish flakes occasionally.

Behavior and Reproduction:

• Daily Habits: Primarily active during nighttime, foraging and wandering in their surroundings.
• Reproduction: They reproduce easily in captivity, with females nurturing eggs in a specialized pouch (marsupium) until the offspring emerge fully formed.
• Life Expectancy: Can live 2–3 years with proper care.

Perfect Applications:

• Bioactive Setups: Excellent as a cleanup crew in enclosures for reptiles or amphibians.
• Exotic Pets: Their striking look and engaging behavior attract hobbyists and collectors alike.