Caring for Armadillo officinalis

Armadillo officinalis is a robust pill bug native to the Mediterranean region. It likes to stay hidden and can remain perched on wood for long periods of time, curled up into a tight ball.

Armadillo officinalis at a Glance

Origin	France, Greece, Spain
Temperature	18–24 °C
Size	2.0 cm
Substrate	Nutrient-rich soil with decomposed leaves and decayed hardwood
Humidity	Moist hiding places and a less moist alternate location

The temperature figures are approximate values based on previous experience. Measure the temperature at the location of the box. Direct sunlight and an uncontrolled heat source can quickly cause the container to overheat.

The product card shows you the variety available and its current availability.

Caring for Armadillo officinalis: Enclosure and Climate

Choose an escape-proof box with securely covered ventilation openings. Larger species and growing groups require more floor space. Fill the enclosure with several centimeters of nutrient-rich soil and cover it with decomposed leaves. Flat pieces of bark provide hiding places. Pure coconut fiber is not a sufficient food source.

Keep part of the substrate slightly moist under the leaves or moss, and let the other side remain drier. Water specifically in the moist corner. This allows the Isopods to choose where they want to stay. Permanently wet soil and stagnant air are not suitable for this type of care.

Food for Armadillo officinalis

Leaves and white-rotten hardwood should always be kept in the box. They serve as both food and shelter. You can collect clean, suitable leaves yourself; if you don’t have a safe place to collect them, pre-prepared leaf litter is a practical alternative.

A source of calcium supplements their diet. Cuttlefish powder can be offered sparingly in an easily accessible spot. Small portions of earthworm food are a supplement, not a substitute for leaves and wood. Check for leftovers the next day and remove any perishable items promptly.

Behavior and Offspring

The light-colored edges of the dorsal plates define their appearance. Specimens from different strains may differ in appearance. Therefore, document any location information and keep such lines separate.

In our care, this species reproduced readily but took several months to reach full maturity. It is not possible to determine consistent litter sizes or hatching dates based on this.

Check the food and humidity levels regularly without rearranging the entire setup. If you find mold, first remove the affected food dish and check the amount of food and the ventilation. A complete bedding change is usually unnecessary for a group that is otherwise stable.

Discover More Isopods

Here you’ll find a selection from our store. Before purchasing, make sure the specific species’ needs are compatible with your terrarium.

Still unsure? Feel free to ask us your question in the comments section below the article.