Curly Woodlouse
Cylisticus convexus
The Cylisticus convexus. The 'Curly' isopod, also known as 'Tear-drop' due to its unusual shape: it is tapered and narrow posteriorly like a Porcellio, but rolls up imperfectly (leaving protruding antennae) like an Armadillidium. Fast (up to 0.6 inches) and very shiny, it presents itself with a dark gray back with opaque cream lateral spots. Extremely prolific and tolerant to immense temperature ranges, it is a very robust humid bioactive scavenger, suitable for non-asphyctic temperate-tropical terrariums.
Umgebung
Terrestrisch
Luftfeuchtigkeit
60 - 80 %
Tagestemperatur
20 - 25 °C
Nachttemperatur
18 - 21 °C
Artbeschreibung
Geographic Origin and Habitat: BMIG reports Cylisticus convexus as widely but patchily distributed throughout Britain and Ireland. In that regional account it occurs in sparsely vegetated semi-natural coastal habitats and synanthropic inland sites.
Taxonomy and Genetics: The cited BMIG page identifies Cylisticus convexus; it does not provide genetic results.
Behaviour and Habits: BMIG reports that, when provoked, the species can roll into a flattened ball while its antennae and long pointed uropods remain protruding.
Morphology and Sexual Dimorphism: The cited page identifies the protruding antennae and long pointed uropods in that defensive posture; it does not provide sexual-dimorphism measurements.
Pflege, Zucht und Mitbewohner
Terrarium Setup: BMIG reports Cylisticus convexus beneath stones, dead wood, strandline material and other debris. This is a field-habitat observation, not an enclosure design or substrate prescription.
Lighting and Heating: The cited species page does not provide a captive lighting or temperature schedule.
Humidity and Hydration: The cited species page does not quantify humidity, hydration, or a captive moisture target.
Feeding and Supplementation: The cited species page does not document diet, feeding frequency, or supplementation.
Compatibility and Coexistence: The cited species page does not evaluate cohabitation or provide a compatibility recommendation.
Health and Common Diseases: The cited species page does not provide disease, treatment, or veterinary-management evidence.
Geografische Herkunft und Verbreitung
Diese Art stammt aus: Europa Orientale / Asia Minore (Invasivo globale in aree umide temperate).
Ursprung
Kosmopolitisch oder eingeführtNordamerikaEuropa, Mittelmeerraum und Westasien
Profil der terrestrischen Wirbellosen
- Diät
- Detritivore
- Cylisticus convexus primarily feeds on decomposing organic matter such as leaf litter and rotting wood. They require a constant supply of calcium, which can be provided through cuttlebone or specialized supplements. Supplemental foods like vegetables, fish flakes, or commercial isopod diets should be offered regularly. Ensuring a varied diet will promote healthy growth and vibrant coloration. Always remove uneaten food to prevent mold growth and maintain a clean environment.
- Erwachsenengröße
- 1.5 cm
- Lebensstil/Mikrohabitat
- Terrestrial
- Cylisticus convexus leads a terrestrial and fossorial lifestyle, spending much of its time on or slightly below the forest floor. They play a crucial role in their ecosystem by recycling nutrients through the consumption of decaying plant matter. A proper enclosure should offer a deep, moisture-retaining substrate gradient to allow for natural burrowing. They thrive in environments that mimic the damp, rich soil of a temperate or tropical forest. Consistent microclimates within the habitat are essential for their long-term health.
- Aktivitätszyklus
- Nocturnal
- This species is primarily nocturnal and crepuscular, becoming most active during the evening and night. During the day, Cylisticus convexus typically remains hidden under debris to conserve moisture and avoid predators. In terrariums with lower light levels or high humidity, they may occasionally venture out during daylight hours. Their activity level is highly dependent on environmental moisture; if it becomes too dry, they will burrow deeper. Providing a distinct day-night light cycle helps maintain their natural rhythm.
- Sozialität
- Gregarious
- They are a highly social, gregarious species that naturally forms large, densely packed colonies when optimal environmental parameters are met. They frequently cluster together in significant numbers in the most humid corners of their enclosure, a communal behavior that effectively minimizes individual water loss and promotes robust breeding.
- Reproduktion
- Marsupial
- Reproduction in Cylisticus convexus occurs when environmental conditions like temperature and humidity are optimal. Females carry the developing eggs in a specialized brood pouch called a marsupium on their underside. Once fully developed, the young emerge as fully formed miniature versions of the adults, known as mancae. The breeding rate can be quite prolific under ideal captive conditions. Providing ample hiding spots and proper nutrition will encourage successful breeding colonies.
- Giftig
- No
- Handhabungstoleranz
- Display only
- Handling Cylisticus convexus should be done with extreme care due to their delicate exoskeleton. It is generally best to observe them rather than handle them frequently, as the oils and salts on human skin can be harmful. If they must be moved, gently coax them into a small container using a soft brush or a piece of leaf litter. Avoid dropping them, as a fall from even a small height can cause fatal injuries. Their fast movements or tendency to roll up can also make secure handling difficult.
- Brumation
- Nicht erforderlich
- Depending on their native climate, Cylisticus convexus may experience a period of reduced activity or diapause during cooler months. In captivity, true brumation is usually unnecessary if temperatures are kept stable year-round. However, slight seasonal temperature drops can occasionally stimulate breeding in some temperate species. Ensure that the enclosure does not freeze and maintains adequate moisture even during cooler periods. Always monitor the colony closely if attempting to cycle their environmental temperatures.
- Häutung
- Periodic
- As they grow, Cylisticus convexus must shed their exoskeleton in a process called molting. Interestingly, isopods molt in two separate stages: first shedding the posterior half, and then the anterior half a few days later. During this time, they are highly vulnerable and require elevated humidity to shed successfully. They will typically consume their old exoskeleton to reclaim valuable calcium and nutrients. It is crucial to provide adequate hiding spots so they can molt safely away from colony mates.
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