Isopods

Commonly Kept Species:

 

Porcellio scaber (Common Isopod)

Temperature: 65-80°F
Humidity: Moderate to high (50-80%)
Substrate: Coconut fiber, decayed wood, leaf litter, sphagnum moss
Diet: Leaf litter, fish flakes, vegetables, calcium source (cuttlefish bone, eggshells)
Habitat Size: Small plastic container or terrarium with ventilation
Behavior: Hardy, active, good for bioactive setups
Special Notes: Can tolerate drier conditions than some other species.




Porcellio laevis (Dairy Cow Isopod)

Temperature: 70-85°F
Humidity: Moderate (60-80%)
Substrate: Coconut fiber, leaf litter, decayed wood, sphagnum moss
Diet: Leaf litter, fruits, vegetables, calcium supplement
Habitat Size: Small to medium plastic container with ventilation
Behavior: Large, active, fast breeders, excellent for cleanup crews
Special Notes: Enjoy protein-rich foods like dried fish or shrimp occasionally.




Armadillidium vulgare (Pill Bug Isopod)

Temperature: 65-80°F
Humidity: Moderate (50-70%)
Substrate: Coconut fiber, leaf litter, sphagnum moss, bark
Diet: Leaf litter, vegetables, cuttlefish bone for calcium
Habitat Size: Small container or terrarium with ventilation
Behavior: Rolls into a ball when disturbed, slow breeder
Special Notes: Prefers slightly drier conditions compared to other isopods.




Cubaris sp. (Rubber Ducky Isopod & Other Exotic Species)

Temperature: 70-85°F
Humidity: High (75-90%)
Substrate: Decayed wood, coconut fiber, sphagnum moss, leaf litter
Diet: Leaf litter, fruits, vegetables, cuttlefish bone for calcium
Habitat Size: Medium container or terrarium with proper ventilation
Behavior: Slow-growing, sensitive to environmental changes
Special Notes: Requires stable high humidity and organic-rich substrate.




Porcellionides pruinosus (Powder Blue/Orange Isopod)

Temperature: 70-85°F
Humidity: Moderate to high (60-80%)
Substrate: Coconut fiber, decayed wood, leaf litter
Diet: Leaf litter, fruits, fish flakes, calcium source
Habitat Size: Small to medium container with ventilation
Behavior: Fast-moving, prolific breeders, excellent for bioactive setups
Special Notes: Thrive in both humid and slightly drier environments

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