Armadillidium flavoscutatum

Armadillidium flavoscutatum– Redhead woodlouse from Europe

The species Armadillidium flavoscutatum originates from warmer regions of southern Europe, especially the Mediterranean. In its natural habitats – such as sparse deciduous forests, garrigue zones or rocky habitats – it prefers to live under stones, between roots and close to the ground, where it withdraws into crevices and under foliage. It is not strictly nocturnal like many other isopod species, but can often also be observed during the day – especially in stable climatic conditions in the terrarium.

Their high-contrast coloration is striking: the body is usually dark brown or greyish purple with a clearly contrasting yellow-ocher head shield and occasionally lighter segment edges. These color characteristics, which are already visible in young animals, make them a popular species among collectors and nature lovers.

Like all representatives of the genus Armadillidium also possesses A. flavoscutatum the ability to curl up completely into a ball – an effective protective mechanism against predators and dehydration. The animals reach a medium size and show a rather calm but clearly observable behavior. They are quite loyal to their habitat, use fixed hiding places and can be observed there regularly if conditions remain constant.

When kept in a terrarium, this species prefers a well-ventilated setup with a dry main area and optionally a moist retreat – for example under bark, moss or in the substrate floor. A sufficient supply of lime is important, as this is essential for the shell structure. White rotten wood, food leaves, cuttlebone and a protein-rich isopod food form the basis for a species-appropriate diet.

The behavior of this species is calm, but not shy – if the habitat is well structured, the animals regularly show themselves at the surface, even during the day. This makes Armadillidium flavoscutatum an ideal choice for nature observations, school projects or as an introduction to keeping Mediterranean isopods.

Armadillidium flavoscutatum is a robust, diurnal puffer isopod from the Mediterranean region with striking coloration and exciting biological characteristics. It combines adaptability with high observability – ideal for near-natural terrariums and structure-rich microhabitats.