Armadillidium peraccae, commonly referred to as Rough Roly Poly, is a fascinating isopod species belonging to the Armadillidiidae family. Known for their rugged appearance, these terrestrial crustaceans are popular in the exotic pet and bioactive terrarium community due to their unique texture and hardy nature.

Physical Characteristics:

• Size: Approximately 12–15 mm when fully grown.
• Coloration: Typically shades of gray, brown, or tan, often with speckled or mottled patterns that provide excellent camouflage.
• Texture: Their exoskeleton appears rough or uneven compared to smoother species like Armadillidium vulgare.
• Defense Mechanism: Like other Armadillidium species, they roll into a tight ball (volvation) when threatened.

Habitat and Care:

• Preferred Environment: Found in Mediterranean regions, they thrive in moderately humid environments with good ventilation. They prefer a substrate that mimics leaf litter and soil layers found in natural habitats.
• Temperature & Humidity: Maintain temperatures between 68–78°F (20–25°C) with a relative humidity of 60–70%.
• Substrate: Use a mix of coconut coir, sphagnum moss, and leaf litter, supplemented with pieces of bark and calcium-rich sources like cuttlebone.
• Food: Omnivorous decomposers, they feed on decaying organic matter, leaf litter, and supplemental vegetable scraps. Occasionally, protein-rich food such as fish flakes or shrimp pellets can be offered.

Behavior & Breeding:

• Activity: Mostly nocturnal, they are active at night, scavenging for food and exploring their environment.
• Breeding: They breed readily in captivity. Females carry eggs in a pouch (marsupium) until the young are born fully developed.
• Lifespan: 2–3 years under optimal care conditions.

Ideal Uses:

• Bioactive Terrariums: They serve as excellent cleanup crews in reptile or amphibian habitats.
• Pets: Their unique appearance and behavior make them appealing for hobbyists and collectors.