Cristarmadillidium muricatum (Crystal Pineapple Isopod)

Cristarmadillidium muricatum, also known as the Crystal Pineapple isopod, is a spiny and very small species native to Spain. These isopods are instantly recognisable for their distinctive appearance and pale orange to peach colouration that gives them their charming “pineapple” nickname.

Though tiny in size, Crystal Pineapples are especially beautiful in person and a truly unique addition to any isopod collection. With their unusual spiny “hedgehog-like” backs , these are one of the most distinctive and adorable species available.

These isopods are captive-bred (CB).

Care Information

• Size: Mixed sizes.
• Diet: Rotting hardwood, leaf litter (oak, beech, maple, chestnut, Asian species), and lichen form the staple diet. Supplement regularly with calcium (cuttlefish bone, limestone, or powdered calcium carbonate), protein-rich treats (fish flakes, shrimp pellets) and vegetables (squash, carrot, zucchini, or sweet potato).
• Temperature: 20–26 °C. Room temperature is usually fine
• Humidity: 40-50%. Requires low humidity like most Spanish species. Maintain a moist/dry gradient: 1/4 of the tub humid with moss or damp substrate, the remaining drier. Mist lightly or use a dropper every week to maintain stability without waterlogging.
• Ventilation: Provide good cross-ventilation to prevent stagnation, while keeping humidity stable.
• Substrate: Substrate minimum ~5cm deep mix, organic soil, flake soil, rotting wood, sphagnum moss, and leaf litter. Add cork bark and hardwood pieces for shelter.
• Enclosure: 3L Braplast tub or larger. For growing colonies 5L and 11L tubs may be more suitable.

Isopods are shipped securely in ventilated tubs with damp moss for safe travel.

Note: If you are interested in larger quantities than those listed, or want any advise, please get in contact!