5.13.2024 - Collecting under the Clouds

Armadillidium Nasatum Peach morph

I thought it would be a bad day for collecting isopods, but it turns out the humid, overcast weather was perfect for them. I scouted my usual places, but decided to explore more of the yard. There is no shortage of a. vulgare, they're everywhere! At first, it almost overwhelmed me, like I was responsible for something extremely precious and unique. But the feeling was quickly replaced with joy. Leaving my career was really difficult, but having this little patch of earth to befriend and study has fulfilled me in a way I didn't expect. Every square foot around me was teeming with life, each creature completely unique and beautiful... I feel honored to be able to add to the research for these incredible animals. I found my first Peach A. Nasatum today too!

I'm finding a lot of healthy adults, but very few are bright yellow, like my Neons. I'm not sure if the bright ones are more likely to stand out and get eaten, and that's why there are fewer adults, or if there is something inherent to the genetic change that alters lifespan, quality of life, or behavior. Raising the generation of juveniles will hopefully prove some of that out.

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