Trichoniscus pusillus is one of many species that may make up the "dwarf purple isopod" circulating through collections. This small isopod only reaches 2-3mm in length as an adult. Unlike dwarf white, T. pusillus is a sexual species, requiring both male and female members to successfully reproduce. This is one of the most common species of isopod making up the fauna of the British Isles, and has been naturalized to most of the Americas and parts of the rest of the world.
T. pusillus is also frequently (and incorrectly) sold as Androniscus dentiger, the "rosy woodlouse". There are some similarities, namingly color and size, but pusillus is more of a gray-lavender color, sometimes described as a "purple-red". These isopods are ideal clean up crew for vulnerable animals like frogs and salamanders, or feeders for froglets. They may also be housed with some success with invertebrates (although we de recommend avoiding using isopods with very sensitive invertebrates). They are not known to compete with other animals for resources and are very peaceful roommates.
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