The Armadillidium vulgare 'Red & Orange' refers to captive-bred colour morphs of the common pill bug (Armadillidium vulgare) that display a range of vibrant red and orange hues. These are popular in the isopod hobby and are often sold under specific trade names like 'Orange Vigor' or 'Punta Cana'.
Key Characteristics
- Appearance: The intensity of the colour can vary significantly, even within the same strain. Individuals can range from a light yellow-orange to a deep burgundy-red. The 'Orange Vigor' strain is noted for this specific variation, where juveniles start off white and develop deeper red/orange colours with each successive shed as they mature. Some specimens may also have spotting.
- Size: Adults typically reach a size of up to 1.8 cm (0.7 inches).
- Origin: The species itself is widespread across Europe and introduced globally, but these specific 'red & orange' variations are selectively bred colour mutations developed in captivity.
Husbandry and Care
A. vulgare are known for being hardy and easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for beginners. They are more drought-tolerant than many other isopod species.
- Habitat: A tall or wide enclosure with good ventilation is recommended. A moisture gradient is important: keep one area consistently damp with sphagnum moss and the other side drier so the isopods can regulate their moisture needs.
- Substrate & Hides: Provide a deep substrate layer composed of organic compost, abundant decaying leaf litter (oak, beech), and rotting white wood, which serves as both food and shelter.
- Temperature & Humidity: They do best in moderate temperatures, ideally between 20–26°C (68–79°F). Humidity should be kept around 60%, avoiding overly high, tropical humidity for extended periods, which can cause molting issues.
- Diet: Their diet is primarily decaying plant matter (detritus).
- Supplement their diet two to three times a week with a protein source, such as fish flakes, dried shrimp, or a commercial isopod protein mix.
- A constant source of calcium, like cuttlebone or limestone, is essential for healthy exoskeleton development.
- Breeding: This particular 'orange vigor' strain is known to be a very prolific breeder once the colony is established.
Armadillidium CF Vulgare 'red & orange'
£5.00Price
