Armadillidium gestroi – a striking pill bug for terrariums with contrasting yellow spots on a dark background. This species is popular in pill bug boxes, terrariums, and bioactive setups due to its distinctive markings, its calm to lively activity, and its ease of observation.
What makes Armadillidium gestroi special:
– Striking markings : bold yellow spots on a dark body
– Woodlouse : can roll itself up protectively when disturbed
– Easily observed : an interesting species for keepers who are looking not only for “ground police” but also for an attractive show animal.
– Suitable for structured setups : fits well in terrariums and separate isopod boxes
Climate & furnishings:
A loose, humus-rich substrate containing leaves and white-rotted wood has proven effective. A humidity gradient is beneficial: one corner should be consistently moist, while the rest of the area should be moderately moist to slightly drying. This allows the animals to choose their preferred area. Good ventilation remains important. The temperature range commonly used in the hobby is approximately 21–26 °C .
Feeding & Care:
The diet consists primarily of leaves and soft, decomposed wood . Fresh food such as zucchini, carrot, or sweet potato can be offered once or twice a week as a supplement. A small protein source and a consistent calcium source, such as cuttlebone, are also beneficial. Uneaten food should be removed regularly.
Reproduction & Development:
Armadillidium gestroi is considered a robust species with reliable, rather moderate reproduction . After acclimation, the colony usually establishes itself stably. Juveniles often tend to stay in the more humid areas of the setup.
Who this species might be of interest to:
– for owners looking for a decorative woodlouse
– for terrariums with a structured base
– for woodlouse keepers who value appearance, observability and stable handling
Matching accessories:
Depending on the setup, a woodlouse bowl , a double woodlouse bowl or a suitable BioFaunaCube is suitable for clean feeding and structured housing.
| Experience |
Humidity |
temperature |
| ★★☆☆☆ |
moderately humid with a humidity gradient |
21–26 °C |
Is Armadillidium gestroi suitable for beginners? +
The species is generally considered to be rather robust and hardy , provided the substrate, moisture gradient, foliage and calcium supply are suitable.
What does Armadillidium gestroi eat? +
The diet consists mainly of leaves and white-rotted wood . Small amounts of fresh food, protein, and calcium can be added.
Which facility makes sense? +
Beneficial elements include a humus-rich base substrate , plenty of leaves , white-rotted wood , hiding places and a clear moisture gradient .
How quickly does the species reproduce ?
Armadillidium gestroi usually multiplies reliably, but not extremely quickly . Good basic conditions are more important than frantically tinkering with individual parameters.