10-12 Count Per Culture

Clown isopods, scientifically known as Armadillidium klugii, are a captivating species of terrestrial isopods prized for their vibrant colors and unique patterns. Here's a comprehensive overview of their characteristics, care requirements, and benefits:  

Appearance:

• Distinctive Colors: Clown isopods are aptly named for their bright, contrasting colors, typically featuring a base of yellow or cream with bold black or reddish-brown spots. This striking pattern resembles that of a clown's costume, hence their name.

• Size: They are medium-sized isopods, reaching about 0.5 inches (1.2 cm) in length.  

• Body Structure: Like other isopods, they have a segmented body with seven pairs of legs, two antennae, and a protective exoskeleton.

Habitat and Care:

• Enclosure: A glass or plastic container with good ventilation is suitable for housing clown isopods. The size of the enclosure depends on the population size.

• Substrate: A mix of coconut coir, sphagnum moss, and leaf litter provides a comfortable and humid environment.

• Humidity: Clown isopods thrive in moderate to high humidity levels (60-80%). Regular misting is necessary to maintain proper moisture.  

• Temperature: They prefer temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C).

• Hiding Spots: Provide cork bark, rocks, or other decorations to create hiding spots and simulate their natural habitat.

Diet:

• Detritivores: Clown isopods are primarily detritivores, feeding on decaying organic matter such as leaf litter, wood, and vegetable scraps.  

• Supplementation: They can also be supplemented with occasional feedings of fruits, vegetables, and protein sources like dried shrimp or fish flakes.

Benefits in Bioactive Setups:

• Clean-up Crew: Clown isopods are excellent additions to bioactive terrariums and vivariums. They act as a "clean-up crew," consuming waste and decaying matter, which helps maintain a healthy ecosystem.  

• Soil Aeration: Their burrowing activity helps aerate the soil, preventing compaction and promoting healthy plant growth.

• Nutrient Cycling: By breaking down organic matter, they contribute to nutrient cycling, making essential elements available to plants.  

Breeding:

• Relatively Easy: Clown isopods are relatively easy to breed in captivity, given proper conditions.

• Reproduction: Females carry eggs in a pouch on their underside until they hatch into miniature versions of the adults.

Interesting Facts:

• Social Creatures: Clown isopods are social animals and prefer to live in groups.

• Nocturnal Activity: They are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night.

• Lifespan: Clown isopods can live for 2-3 years with proper care.