Armadillidium vulgare ‘Saint Lucia’ Isopods (Jelly Bean Isopods)

Armadillidium vulgare ‘Saint Lucia’ Isopods

Origin

• Native to Mediterranean Europe, including the island of Saint Lucia

Environmental Preferences

• Temperature Range: 70–80°F (21–27°C)
• Humidity Preference: Medium (50–70%)

Physical Characteristics

• Average Adult Size: 1.8–2.0 cm (~0.70–0.78")
• Vibrant mix of whites, oranges, yellows, reds, grays, and near-blacks
• Often displays segmented striping, dalmatian speckling, or metallic gold splotching
• Commonly referred to as “Jelly Bean Isopods” due to their wide color variation

Diet

• Soft or rotting wood
• Leaf litter and decaying plant matter
• Calcium sources (e.g., cuttlebone, eggshell, PangeaCal Calcium)
• Protein (e.g., freeze-dried shrimp, minnows, fish pellets, dried insects)
• Commercial insect food (e.g., Pangea Roach & Cricket Food)
• Vegetables (e.g., carrots, zucchini, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, cucumber)
• Fruits (e.g., bananas, apples, watermelon, mango)

Description

Armadillidium vulgare “Saint Lucia” is a gorgeous, locale-specific morph celebrated for its incredible range of vivid colors and patterns, earning it the nickname “Jelly Bean Isopod.” Individuals may display orange, yellow, gold, red, gray, black, or combinations of these, along with various striping or speckled traits. Even the metallic gold sheen seen in some specimens occurs naturally within this highly variable line. Despite their beauty, Saint Lucia Isopods are slow growers and even slower breeders, often taking several years to reach adulthood. Their wide color variation, steady activity, and visual appeal make them a favorite for display enclosures.

Master Culture

For successfully setting up a master culture setup of isopods we recommend using 6 qt - 32 qt plastic shoebox tubs. Locking tubs are optional but provide added security. Creating a series of small holes on alternating sides of the container will help to achieve healthy flow and reduce mold. Adding 1-3 inches (more for burrowing species) of pre-soaked Pangea ABG Substrate will provide a suitable substrate. Adding Pangea Sphagnum Moss, Pangea Leaf Litter Decor (the more the better), and pieces of wood or cork bark will help provide multiple layers for isopods to inhabit and feel safe. Mist culture as needed.

*Co-habitation amongst separate species of Isopod is not recommended.

*This animal can only be shipped to the US Contiguous, except LA, OR, and FL because of state regulations.