Armadillidium klugii ‘Montenegro’ (12+)

Armadillidium klugii 'Montenegro' (often called “Clown Isopods”) are among the most spectacular and sought-after isopods in bioactive terrarium keeping. Displaying beautiful coloration ranging from orange-red to dark brown, accented with distinctive yellow and white spots on their backs, they add incredible visual appeal to display enclosures. In addition to their beauty, they actively help clean the terrarium by consuming organic debris (dead leaves, decaying wood, leftover food) and help keep the substrate cleaner and more stable.

They spend most of their time under hides, bark, and in leaf litter, and thrive in well-ventilated Mediterranean, semi-arid to semi-tropical terrariums with a good humidity gradient.

Quantity: 12+

Highlights

• Incredible color pattern: unique “clown” markings that are highly prized by collectors and perfect for display terrariums

• Effective cleanup crew: efficiently consumes plant debris and decomposing organic matter

• Active behavior: a curious species that is very interesting to observe, especially during feeding

• Excellent ability to roll into a ball: forms a perfectly complete sphere when threatened (“rolly-polly” behavior)

• Hardy size: very resilient once the colony is well established

Care Tips & Parameters

• Humidity: moderate with a pronounced gradient. Provide a humid area (about 1/3 of the enclosure with sphagnum moss) and a drier area (2/3 of the enclosure). Tip: they particularly appreciate well-ventilated environments.

• Temperature: approximately 21–26°C (they tolerate average room temperatures well).

• Food:

  • Dead leaf litter and decomposed wood available at all times (essential base diet)

  • Supplements: La Swamp isopod food, small seeds, occasional protein, pieces of vegetables (in small quantities)

• Calcium: always keep a source available (cuttlebone, La Swamp calcium, thoroughly dried eggshells) to ensure perfect molts.

• Warning: this species is very sensitive to insufficient ventilation and excessive stagnant moisture. Ensure excellent ventilation and avoid saturating the substrate to prevent mold or mite infestations.