The Armadillidium vulgare 'multi coloured', often sold under names like 'Gem Mix' or specific locality names such as 'St. Lucia', is a captive-bred colour morph of the common pill bug or roly-poly. These isopods are popular pets due to the wide variety of patterns and colours they exhibit within a single colony, which are a result of selective breeding from the naturally variable wild type. 
 
Appearance
Unlike the uniform grey wild type, 'multi coloured' individuals display a mix of shades including grey, brown, orange, red, and yellow. They may have a solid base colour, a spotted pattern, or variegated markings. Like other A. vulgare, they have a segmented, rounded exoskeleton and are capable of rolling into a tight, protective ball (conglobation) when disturbed. 
 
Habitat and Care
A. vulgare 'multi coloured' are hardy and relatively easy to care for, making them suitable for beginners. They are adaptable and can tolerate drier conditions than many other isopod species. 
Enclosure: A plastic tub or glass aquarium with good cross-ventilation is suitable. A moisture gradient should be provided, with one area kept damp using sphagnum moss and the rest of the enclosure a bit drier.
Substrate & Hides: A deep substrate mix of organic compost, decaying leaf litter, and rotting white wood is essential for both food and burrowing. Cork bark provides excellent hiding spots.
Temperature & Humidity: They thrive in temperate conditions, ideally between 20–26°C (68–79°F), and moderate humidity levels (around 60%). High tropical humidity for long periods can cause issues with molting.
Diet: As primary detritivores, their main diet should be an abundance of decaying organic matter.
Supplement with occasional protein sources like fish flakes or freeze-dried shrimp placed on the dry side of the enclosure to prevent mold.
A constant source of calcium, such as cuttlebone or crushed eggshells, is vital for their exoskeleton health. 
 
Behavior
These isopods are primarily nocturnal and will be most active at night. They are a valuable addition to bioactive terrariums as clean-up crews, breaking down waste and returning nutrients to the soil. In a proper habitat, they will breed readily and establish a thriving colony.