Filipinodillo sp "Giant Banahao"

Adults are large for an isopod, typically reaching around 2.5–3 cm in length. The body is broad, thick, and strongly domed, with heavily developed segmentation that gives this species a distinctly robust, “armoured” appearance characteristic of the Filipinodillo genus. Patterning is variable but most commonly features a darker central dorsal band, bordered by lighter lateral fields in younger individuals. As they mature, this contrast often softens into a more blended, marbled appearance, with many adults developing rich brown to near-black tones. Despite this darkening, traces of the original banding or mottled patterning are usually still visible, contributing to a natural, bark-like camouflage.
As with other Filipinodillo species, this species showcases sexual dimorphism, with males typically presenting darker overall tones, while females tend to remain lighter and show more of the underlying contrast in their patterning.

This species appears to fit the broader Filipinodillo profile of a tropical, shelter-focused, substrate-orientated isopod with low to moderate surface activity. They appreciate cover, a stable climate, and limited disturbance. As a member of the Armadillidae, it is a true rolling isopod capable of conglobation, meaning when handled or disturbed they can roll into a tight ball. It is also one of those species that is particularly good at playing dead, often remaining completely still and not moving its legs when disturbed or picked up.

This species prefers a consistently warm, humid setup with deep substrate, abundant leaf litter for cover, decaying wood, and cork bark. My “Banahao” in particular tend to congregate beneath pieces of bark or dried banana leaves on the humid end of the enclosure, especially in areas with plenty of moss. They spend the vast majority of their time there, around 95%, and only rarely venture into the drier side.

As a result, I recommend maintaining roughly a 70% wet to 30% dry gradient, while avoiding overly saturated or airless conditions. Ventilation should not be minimal, as this species can be sensitive to poor airflow. The aim is to achieve a balanced tropical environment, high moisture retention combined with sufficient ventilation to prevent stagnant conditions and substrate souring.

There is no strong species-specific dietary guidance for this species. As with most isopods, a reliable staple of leaf litter and decaying wood should form the foundation of the diet, supported by occasional supplementary foods such as vegetables and protein. In my experience, they take to protein fairly well and will readily consume fish protein sticks, although they do not display a particularly strong or aggressive feeding response.
Genus-level guidance suggests offering protein in moderation while maintaining a constant detritus base. Calcium should be available at all times, particularly given the species’ large and developed exoskeleton.

Breeding is slow to moderate with this species. You should certainly not expect explosive colony growth. Juveniles take time to mature, but once established the colony reproduces steadily. They are not especially difficult to breed once settled, but are less forgiving than typical beginner species. Brood size is not well documented, though it appears to be on the lower end for Filipinodillo species based on my experience.