The Troglodillo isopod genus has some amazing little gems still fairly rare to the hobby at this time. These isopods are somewhat flat overall and have a face similar to the coveted Rubber Ducky adding to their appeal. Their body structure is sturdy with well defined segments. Almost like a little compact tank! Troglodillo Sp. Green Spot may be the king/queen of them all! Their various shades of iridescent green mottling over a dark base is nothing short of breath taking. They are a bit more particular in their care needs and are not recommended for beginners or those with limited isopod experience.
For housing 6 quart gasket sealed storage bin or small glass aquarium with tight fitting lid is sufficient for a small starter culture of 10-15 individuals. Standard or bioactive enclosures can be enhanced with natural botanical items to simulate the isopods habitat in the wild. This helps them feel secure which in turn promotes their natural processes like eating and breeding. Green Spot isopods are largely cave dwellers originating from Thailand. They need a sub tropical to tropical environment with slightly higher temps and humidity than your average isopod. 70F to 80F is their comfort zone. Slight dips into the mid 60's at night are of no consequence. Small deviations in temperature are not detrimental, but do whatever you need based on your enclosure set up to avoid large swings in either direction. A sharp moisture gradient with 70% moist and the remainder no less than slightly dry works well for them. They do enjoy and utilize some dry area so set up your enclosure to facilitate this type of gradient. A few pieces of cork bark strategically placed will help retain the humidity levels and reduce the frequency of watering needed to maintain a reasonably consistent environment.
Isopods are detritivores. Their primary diet in nature is leaf litter and decayed wood. Both of these should always be available in abundance. They will also happily consume any other decomposing organic plant or animal matter they come across. As such it is vital to supplement your isopods with other food sources on a semi regular basis. They enjoy food options like squash, radishes, carrots and other veggies along with commercial isopod powdered food like Repashy. They also need some occasional protein in their diets which can be things like freeze dried minnows, shrimp, fish pellets, dried insects and other protein based food sources. Be sure to feed these on the drier side as they can spoil quickly in humid environments and attract unwanted pests. Provide them a steady source of cuttlebone for calcium. Ours are also provided small chunks of Texas holy rock which they seem to gravitate towards since it very closely mimics the caves they frequent in their native habitat.
If you're an experienced keeper with a firm foundation on isopod 101. Troglodillo Green Spot may be the rare and exceptional isopod worthy of your next addition!
- Origin: Asia
- Classification: Armadillidiidae > Troglodillo > Green Spot
- Average Size: 1/2" to 3/4" inch
- Activity level: Primarily nocturnal. Some daytime activity is normal with large cultures.
- Difficulty: Advanced