Description
- Origin: Greece (Corfu)
- Common Name: Redhead Woodlouse, Red Head Isopod
- Scientific Name: Armadillidium flavoscutatum “Redhead”
- Adult Size: Up to 1.8 cm
- Temperature: 18 – 24°C
- Humidity: 50 – 70%; drought tolerant with access to a moist area
Armadillidium flavoscutatum “Redhead” is a striking and desirable European isopod, due to its bold contrasting colouration. This variety displays a dark grey to black body with a characteristic orange to red head and lighter patterning across the tergites, giving it a clean, high-contrast appearance. As with other Armadillidium species, it is a true pill isopod and will readily conglobate when disturbed.
Like many European woodlice, this species is particularly well suited to captive care in the UK due to its tolerance of cooler temperatures and seasonal fluctuations. While European species are often considered less colourful than tropical isopods, select Armadillidium—including flavoscutatum, klugii, gestroi, and werneri—stand out with enhanced patterning and vibrant tones.
This is a hardy and forgiving species, making it suitable for beginners provided basic humidity requirements are met. In the wild, A. flavoscutatum is commonly associated with rocky habitats and calcareous substrates, where natural limestone provides an ongoing calcium source. Replicating this in captivity by adding limestone or sandstone pieces is recommended to support healthy exoskeleton development and successful moulting.
A well-ventilated enclosure with leaf litter, decaying wood, and a humidity gradient is ideal. While generally drought tolerant, a consistently moist corner should always be provided.
Sold in a tub of 10.
Please note that for the health and safety of these animals we will not ship Woodlice in cold weather.
Orders containing live isopods take up to 3 working days to process.
