Soil isopods were thought to belong to the cubaris family however more recently were reclassified as Troglodillo sp. They are larger species compared to other isopods. These species have a very dark colour and white antennae. Exotic pet communities love and admire their unique appearance and striking features.   Soil Isopods: Summary Origin: Vietnam Scientific Name: Cubaris/Troglodillo sp Maintenance: Low Size: 1.5 cm to 2 cm Rarity: High Temperature: 75F to 80F Humidity: 60% to 80% Supplements: Cuttlebone, calcium powder   Soil Isopods: Introduction Soil Isopods are native to Southeast Asia. Their exoskeleton is dark black-purple in colour. Due to this rare colour combination, they have got the nicknames “Gothic Isopod” and “The Black Evil”.    These critters, unlike other isopods, like to live on flat rock surfaces. Their range of activity is very small. They prefer wet and humid climates like their original habitat.    Soil Isopods: Characteristics and Behaviour Their origin is in the tropical climates of Vietnam. They are one of the largest in Cubaris sp. They grow up to 2 cm. These species are similar to Purple Giant isopods of Cubaris sp. They like wet habitats with high humidity and in shaded areas. During summers or dry days, they like to live in caves with water resources and moisture.  They are detritivores. They are less active during the summer. During rainy seasons, they spread everywhere and are highly proactive. They have a hard carapace with a dark colour and white antennae. Unlike their name, “Gothic Isopods” and “The Black Evil”, these creatures look adorable with their rubber duck faces. They are big compared to other Cubaris sp.   Soil Isopods: Feeding Soil Isopods are omnivorous. For Soil Isopods to thrive and breed, healthy community nutrition is crucial. A balanced meal of plant matter, vegetables, rotten wood, and greens will help keep the isopods healthy.   They also need protein in their diet. Therefore, meat scraps, mushrooms and other complex protein foods can help maintain their exoskeleton.    Alternate food supplements can be given once or twice a month. Calcium powder and cuttlefish bone are some of the substitutes for Soil Isopods.   Soil Isopods: Natural Habitat Soil isopods live in wet and humid conditions. These creatures are found more in shaded and humid habitats. During the summer season, their activity becomes low, and they tend to live in places where there is water source and moisture. When the season changes and it starts raining, these creatures become more active, and they spread everywhere. Therefore, it is observed that these isopods love wet and moist environments.  Soil Isopods: Care and Breeding Soil Isopods of Cubaris sp. are rare species of isopods. Breeding of isopods is a bit difficult from other isopod species. The care and maintenance tips are as follows:   An enclosure made of plastic or glass will be suitable for Soil Isopods. It is necessary to maintain the temperature of the enclosure around 75°F These creatures love humid and wet habitats. Therefore, humidity has to be on the higher end. Make sure there is no stagnation of water inside the enclosure. Soil isopods appreciate wet and humid enclosures, not waterlogged enclosures. Provide an enclosure with small ventilation to allow airflow. These isopods prefer to live in shade. Therefore, keep them in a dark, shaded area. Provide deep substrate to the enclosure. Thicker substrate helps maintain a consistent environment.  Add sphagnum moss as it helps in retaining and providing moisture to the enclosed environment.  Supply suitable calcium supplements once or twice a week. Add limestone to the substrate as a supplement and also to mimic the environment.   Soil Isopod: Setting of Artificial Environment To rear a Soil Isopod, it is important to mimic its natural habit. By understanding their natural habitat, we can provide that in any artificial setting.    Soil isopods are from a tropical climate with a wet and humid environment. They’re found among dead and decaying organic matter. These nourish their body by consuming decaying matter.    Therefore, the enclosure for the vivarium or terrarium should mimic the atmosphere of their original habitat. Maintaining a wet and humid substrate with high temperature is crucial.    Before adding your isopods into any artificial setting, make sure they’re of the same species. Mixing various species of isopods can cause clashes as it is their inherent trait to dominate other species. Therefore, it is crucial to keep them in their colonies.   The Soil Isopods can tolerate extreme temperatures. But for them to breed, it is necessary to provide the optimum temperature; for the Soil Isopods to breed, temperature should be maintained around 70°F to 80°F. Make sure that this temperature is maintained, as sudden changes in temperature can affect these creatures.    Almost all isopods require warm and moist surroundings. Soil isopods like their surroundings wet and humid, i.e., they prefer high humidity. Therefore, it is necessary to keep a humidity gradient of around 75% to maintain an optimal environment. Also, add some moss to maintain the humidity in the enclosure.   Ventilation is crucial as it prevents unwanted pests from entering the enclosure. High humidity attracts mould, fruit flies, mites and gnats. Therefore, cross ventilation should be provided to prevent excess moisture accumulation.   Soil Isopod: Substrate A suitable substrate mix is necessary for the moisture-loving isopods. For Soil Isopods, the substrate has to be such that it holds moisture and water, provides a suitable base to hold moisture and digging, and is compact and resistant, unlike soil, drainage and long-lasting.  The ABG substrate mixture is ideal for Soil Isopods. The ABG substrate mix helps keep the balance of the artificial ecosystem and maintains the nutrition for the isopods. ABG substrate contains the mixture of the following:   Sphagnum moss Orchid Bark Charcoal Tree Fern Fibre Peat Moss   This substrate mix is suitable for the Soil isopods. This mix helps them to mimic their natural environment.    Additionally, to make their environment more realistic to their natural settings, provide dried leaves and rotting wood into their enclosure. Also, add powdered limestone to the substrate. These provide food for the isopods and also a place for them to bring out their natural character of gathering and hiding.    In conclusion, a well-balanced substrate mix helps them to thrive and breed. The Soil Isopods are extremely rare and are hard to breed. But they need to be kept under observation. Adding water to the substrate when needed and keeping in check with their diet and nutrition should keep them healthy and happy. 

The Pink Panda King Isopods are an eye-catching species, known for their vibrant pink and white coloration. A rare and unique addition to any collection, these isopods are popular among hobbyists for their distinctive appearance and relatively easy care requirements. Ideal for bioactive enclosures, they thrive in humid environments and play an important role in maintaining the ecosystem by breaking down organic matter. Their captivating look and low maintenance make them a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced isopod enthusiasts. Insight Place of Origin: Vietnam Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. 'Panda King' Maintenance Effort: Medium Ideal Temperature Range: 70℉ - 80℉ General Size:  ~ 1 cm Rareness: Low to Medium Humidity Range: 70% - 80% Preferred Diet: Fruit, vegetables, fish food  Supplements in Addition: Cuttlebone, eggshells Panda King Isopods: Introduction These isopods are generally observed in limestone caves and belong to central and northern parts of Vietnam. These species prefer to be in an environment which is humid. Isopods of length approximately 1.5 cm are seen generally. They play a major role in the ecosystem balancing, by feeding on the decaying plants and rotting wood. They supply nutrients to the soil by consuming the decaying matter, maintaining the balance of required nutrients in soil. Characteristics of Panda King Isopods These critters have black and white colour exoskeletons. They grow up to 1.5 cm in length.  Their striking and adorable features make them one of the most sought-after isopods. They are easy to care for and require minimum maintenance. They are beginner-friendly. They are nocturnal in nature. They breed rapidly once established in their habitat. They are detritivores in nature. It has a soft exoskeleton and is used to feed poison dart frogs and other small animals. Vegetables, greens, and fish food are good for maintaining nutrition. The consumption of calcium for these isopods is a bit higher than other isopod species. Feeding These isopods feed on almost all types of food. They are essentially scavengers and feed on organic waste. However, during confinement in a cage, it is imperative to offer optimal nutrition. They can be supplemented with vegetables, greens, rotten leaves, or even wood. For calcium and protein, dried shrimp, fish food, cuttlebone, and egg shells are great for these species growth and development. Calcium powder is also good to give as a substitute.  Most isopod owners make the mistake of overfeeding the isopods. Overfeeding attracts pests into their enclosure. Therefore, it is important to feed the necessary quantity of food.  Natural Habitat Panda King isopods live in limestone caves and taverns. These species are commonly found in the central and northern parts of Thailand. In this region, caves are abundant. The caves are dark and humid; therefore, they are suitable for the isopods.  Panda King isopods are scavengers. They are also found among rotting leaves, fruits and vegetables. These species like to live in dark areas. They are shy in nature and like to burrow and hide. It is necessary to understand their natural habitat to build an artificial habitat for these isopods. Panda King Isopods: Breeding Panda King isopods are active species ready to reproduce unless acclimated to their surroundings.  Once they adapt to their surroundings, they start producing many offspring.  These isopods have a distinct mating ritual where the male isopods transfer sperm into the female's pleopods. The offspring hatch after six weeks after the eggs are attached to a firm surface. These offspring stay close to their mother, thus forming a small colony. Artificial Habitat of Panda King Isopods Panda King isopods thrive in humid environments. They are native to the tropical climates of Asia and need moisture to stay hydrated. Keep them in a small box to help them acclimate to a new environment. Once they're comfortable, transfer them to a plastic box with ventilation. Use deep bedding, including materials like old wood, dried leaves, and moss, for a cosy habitat.  It is necessary to prevent excess moisture as they may attract pests like mold and fruit flies. To combat this, adding springtails will help keep the environment clean and free of unwanted guests. It's important to keep the humidity right for the well-being of these isopods so they have a comfortable and healthy place to live. So, with proper care and attention to their habitat, you can enjoy the delightful presence of Panda King isopods in your home. Tank Mates for Pink Panda King Isopods Panda King isopods like to live in a highly humid environment. Therefore, pairing them with similar invertebrates that appreciate humidity is best.  It is necessary that tankmates for the isopods should be from the same region as the Panda King. Therefore, invertebrates like snails are the best tank mates in terrarium and vivarium settings. Another species that is suitable to be paired with is springtails. These creatures, when together, will prevent any kinds of pests and will keep the bioactive clean. Preferred Substrate Mixture for Pink Panda King Isopods A perfect substrate blend for Panda King Isopods is one that is deep, and also holds a lot of moisture. Use a small batch of coco coir, sphagnum moss, and orchid bark for the isopods, with the substrate depth reaching approximately 4 inches for burrowing.  Magnolia leaves enhance the habitat further, contributing to moisture retention and serving as excellent shelters for Panda King Isopods and their offspring. To mimic their natural surroundings, incorporate cork bark, dried oak leaves, and other elements into the enclosure. Wooden bark pieces are added to provide hiding spots, and dried leaves are added as food and for aesthetics. Sphagnum moss helps with moisture retention, which is a crucial factor for Panda King Isopods thriving in the environment. Although ventilation is necessary, it should be minimal to maintain the desired humidity gradient within the substrate. It should have both damp and dry areas. For nutrition, add earthworm castings and limestone powder to replicate their native habitat. This all-rounder substrate mix establishes a solid foundation, offering both sustenance and hydration to the isopods. Striking a balance between the various elements encourages natural behaviours and supports the physical health of Panda King Isopods in captivity. It allows them to thrive in an artificial environment that mimics the conditions of their natural habitat.

Porcellio Werneri isopod, aka Space Pods or Greek Shield isopod, is famous worldwide for its one-of-a-kind shape, colour, etc. This relatively bigger isopod is known for its mild temperaments and compatibility with many climates.  Porcellio Werneri isopods serve purposes like cleaning, aerating the soil, etc., and thus, are in high demand as terrarium pets. These egg-laying species are reasonably easy to care for. You only need a two to five-gallon big container or tank to rear a small community of Porcellio Werneri isopods effectively. A Glimpse Origin: Greece Scientific Name: Porcellio Werneri Difficulty Level: Moderate Size: Up to two centimeters Temperature: 17 to 26°C Humidity: 50 to 65% Favourite Foods: Decaying leaves, fruits, vegetables, etc. An Overview Porcellio Werneri are a relatively large, seasonally breeding isopod from Greece. These isopods are noted for their unique body shape. They are flat, round, and look very similar to a feather. This unusual-looking isopod is popularly sold worldwide as it poses only moderate difficulties to the owners. These pods feature a dark grey color that often crosses into black on significant parts of their body. The outer edge of the body features a milk-white color. These isopods are also known by names like Greek Shield, Werner's Woodlouse, Pancake isopods, etc. Porcellio Werneri requires a good amount of airflow to survive in any enclosure or habitat. Experts recommend keeping at least one-fourth of a Porcellio Werneri enclosure moist to help it stay better. They also require a heavy Calcium diet. Caregivers are expected to provide Calcium and protein supplements to these isopods regularly. Porcellio Werneri isopods exhibit seasonal breeding. So, the juveniles can only be seen during a fixed time every year. Basic Care These isopods are non-aggressive creatures that can live up to four years with proper care.   They maintain a detritivore diet. So, the caregiver should provide them with vegetables, fruits, and decaying organic matter regularly.   Caregivers can facilitate breeding among the Porcellio Werneri isopods by putting the female and male together. But as they are seasonal breeders, the possibility for breeding is limited to two times a year.   Ensure your enclosure is well sized as these isopods can be teritorial and they may fight if they are not spaced adequatley   The younger ones remain in the larvae stage for several months. They need abundant food during this phase. So, the caregiver should be prompt with the diet cycle.   Good attention should be provided to humidity-related issues that can affect the health of these isopods. Such issues are the significant reasons for fatalities among these isopods.   They need a reasonable amount of moisture content. Their natural habitats are usually by high moisture-containing river banks and stream shores. Feeding Being detritivores, these isopods have a diet that primarily consists of dead and decaying matter. They prefer dried leaf litter over fresh leaves. Some of the favorite foods of Porcellio Werneri isopods are as follows. Fruits   Vegetables   Greens   Fish foods   Decaying leaves   Rotting wood   Molting of reptiles and invertebrates It is advisable to give them protein supplements now and then to maintain their overall health. The correct frequency to provide protein supplements to greek shields is twice a week. The best protein sources for them are as follows. Fish flakes   Dried minnows   Dried shrimp Calcium is another staple element that Porcellio Werneri isopods need to have in their daily diet. There are different Calcium sources available that can provide ample amounts of Calcium. Some of them are as follows. Cuttlefish bones   Limestone   Oyster seashell   Limestone rock   Crushed eggshells Appearance and Behaviour Porcellio Werneri isopods are also known as Greek Shield isopods due to their unique appearance. They look very similar to a warrior’s armor shield. They are flat and oval-shaped.  They usually maintain a deep grey body. The grey can sometimes appear like black. At the outer edge of the body, they also have a white shade. At a single glance, the white part looks like a skirt around the Porcellio Werneri isopods’ bodies. P. Werneri isopods are relatively bigger than the other regular isopods. The adult Porcellio Werneri isopod can reach up to two centimeters. Their heads have two long antennae. The exoskeleton ofWerneri isopods is divided into seven different segments. Each segment contains a pair of small legs. The last pair of legs on the last segment of these isopods’ body is much bigger and stronger than the other legs. As far as behavior is concerned, P. Werneri isopods are barely aggressive. They are relatively mild, and the caregiver can even hand-feed them once comfortable. They usually hide from other bigger creatures. On co-existing conditions, Porcellio Werneri isopods exhibit territorial behavior. They usually do not get aggressive against other animals and show a fair amount of tolerance. Porcellio Werneri Isopods: Habitat At least 1/3rd of the enclosure should be moist for culturing Porcellio Werneri isopods.    The enclosure for P. Werneri isopods should have enough air vents, as they require high airflow to survive.    When culturing Porcellio Werneri isopods with other species, it is advisable to use enclosures with ample space. Porcellio Werneri isopod males can get very protective and territorial of their area, and having enough room inside the enclosure is thus crucial.   For starter colonies of Porcellio Werneri isopods, a 12-liter container can be enough.   For large Porcellio Werneri isopod colonies, a 25-liter container will be more than enough.   The temperature inside the enclosure should be kept between 17 and 26 degrees Celsius.    The humidity inside the enclosure should be between 50% to 65%. The enclosure should not be kept completely dry.  Substrate Mix The substrate mix for Porcellio Werneri isopods should contain an ample amount of organic matter. A combination of coconut fiber plus peat moss would suit these isopods. The substrate soil should retain moisture content for quite a while. But it should not be dripping wet, either. Along with the substrate mix, you can supplement a Porcellio Werneri isopod tank with the following elements. Cork bark   Leaf litter (pesticide-free)   Lotus seed pods   Egg crates (for hiding)

White Shark isopods are also known as White Shark Dwarf isopods. These isopods are one of the most minor Cubaris sp. They are fascinating, adorable, widely appreciated, and more prevalent among exotic pet lovers and admirers. Synopsis Origin: Thailand Scientific Name:Cubaris sp Size: 8mm Temperature: 75°F to 80°F Maintenance: Easy to medium Humidity: 60% to 80% Supplement: Cuttlebone, Limestone Rarity: Low Abstract White shark Isopods of the Crustaceans order are native to Thailand. They have orange, white, and dark blue exoskeletons. These Cubaris sp. thrive more than any other cubaris sp. and are suitable to breed in an enclosure. These critters are like every isopod; they are diurnal and consume rotten plant and organic matter, thus maintaining the ecosystem. Like most isopods, they have a huge appetite and eat almost everything. These critters roll and form a ball when threatened. These creatures thrive in tropical habitats with high humidity and high lime-content soil. They are shy and reclusive species and often like burrowing in the soil.  Behaviour and Appearance It has a tricolour carapace with orange, white and dark blue. They can grow up to 0.8 cm long. They are one of the smallest species. Their colour and small size make it adorable and visually appealing. They are active at night. i.e. nocturnal They are easy to care for if kept at an optimal temperature and humidity. They prefer humid environments. Around 80% humid 20%dry. They need moisture for moulting. They feed on vegetables, greens, fish food, and decaying leaves. Limestone and cuttlefish are suitable for calcium and protein. They are not beginner-friendly, but they will thrive well if taken care of them. They are child-friendly. Feeding Unlike other Cubaris species, White Shark Dwarf isopods require a high-nutrition diet. The main food components are fodder leaves and flaky soil with rotten white wood given on alternate days. These creatures need protein twice a week, vegetables, and dried leaves. Protein-rich food like cuttlefish bone, oyster shells, and limestone powder keep them healthy.  Breeding Offsprings White Shark Isopods are active species ready to reproduce unless acclimated to their surroundings. It takes a month for them to establish. Once they adapt to their surroundings, they start producing many offspring.  These creatures are highly active in breeding, and therefore, they may produce many offspring. Consequently, monitoring their behaviour and taking care of these creatures is necessary.  White Shark Isopod: Temperature and Habitat For the White shark isopod, it is necessary to have an enclosure made of plastic or glass. The enclosure should be big enough to support their colony. They should have a small ventilation.  Moisture is essential for White Shark isopods. Maintaining a humid environment is crucial for the overall health of White Shark Isopods. Maintaining the enclosure 80% moist and the rest dry allows them to regulate their hydration. White Shark isopods can survive low temperatures. But the optimal temperature for the creatures to breed will be around 75°F to 80°F. It takes time for White Shark Isopods to get adapted to the environment. Once they adapt, they start producing offspring due to the provided good environmental conditions and habitat.  Also, it is necessary to provide a thick substrate base for them to burrow and dig. They are shy and reclusive and like to get burrowed in. Burrowing also helps them to maintain the moisture inside their body. Therefore, providing an ideal environment with a dense substrate is necessary.  Excess humidity is not ideal for the White Shark Isopods to live in. This will invite uninvited pests like mould, gnats, mites and fruit flies. Also, excessive moisture may affect the isopods' moulting and cause them to die off. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain the high humidity but not too much. Proper ventilation will help in getting rid of excess moisture in their habitat. Substrate Mixture Creating a good substrate mix is essential. Since the White Shark isopods are humidity-loving creatures, providing a suitable substrate mix is necessary. Two types of substrate mix bases exist for the White Shark Dwarf isopods. One consists of an ABG substrate mix with oak leaf litter, cottonwood bark and live moss. Atlanta Botanical Garden or ABG mix is a standard mixture for terrarium and vivarium. This mixture is also used as a substrate mix. It has a mixture of substrates that helps create a balance of elements in the artificial habitat for isopods.  Drainage Water retention Retention of nutrients Compaction resistance   Long Lasting   The substrate mix should consist of the following items: Sphagnum moss: 1 part Tree fern fibre: 2 part Orchid bark: 2 part Peat moss: 1 part One part charcoal This mixture can be used as a substrate base for the  White Shark isopods' enclosure. While providing the enclosure with the base, make a thick base. This helps the creatures for digging and moulting. There is another substrate mix for the White Shark isopods. They consist of the following items: Coconut humus Mixed soil Wooden bark Orchid Moss Both these substrate mixes are suitable for White Shark isopods. This mix provides the enclosure the necessary base for the habitat that they're from Too much humidity and dampness can cause moulting issues and sudden die-offs. Therefore, it is crucial to provide space for moisture to escape. Providing small ventilation can help solve the issue. Also, adding decaying wood pieces, cork bark, and piles of leaf litter can help with excess moisture. This helps in mimicking the natural habitat they are from.  White Shark Isopods need a lot of protein. Therefore, limestone powder is added to both substrates, mimicking their habitat. Earthworm casting, cuttlefish bone, oyster shell, and fish food are other better supplements for these critters.  These isopods need places to hide and explore. Therefore, providing a wooden bark will help provide them a hiding space.  In conclusion, this well-balanced substrate mix helps sustain the physical health of White Shark isopods mimicking their natural habitat. This encourages them to bring out natural behaviour, adapt and breed offspring.

Originally from North Africa, Dairy Cow isopods are increasingly gaining widespread attention as a beginner-friendly pet. The name of these isopods itself generates curiosity among the public. Their black and white combination color and the bioactive potential are the two unique selling points of these great pods. A Glimpse Origin: North Africa Scientific Name: Porcellio Laevis Difficulty Level: Low Size: Up to 2.3 centimeters Rarity:  Low Temperature: 70F to 85F Humidity:    50% to 70% Favorite Foods: Anything except cucumbers and butternut squash Dairy Cow Isopods: An Overview Dairy cows are also are famously known by their scientific name, Porcellio Laevis. This easy-to-care isopod community is suitable for beginners and experienced pet lovers alike.  They are widely known for their cleaning capabilities. They are among the best clean-up crews on vivariums and terrariums. They can quickly and effectively break down organic matter and nourish the soil well. The ability to break down organic matter makes these isopods the perfect companion pets for many other organisms. These isopods can develop a symbiotic relationship between almost all other forms of living things. Dairy Cow Isopods: Basic Care Beginners in isopod care can use the following pointers to provide adequate primary care for Dairy Cow isopods. Dairy Cows are relatively active isopods. So, they need to have a reasonably spacious enclosure to live. They are relatively large. Despite the size, it is straightforward to be taken care of, even by the beginners The enclosure of Dairy Cow isopods has to have high humidity. But it is essential not to make the enclosure extremely wet. The Dairy Cow isopod enclosure should always have a dry side. This enables the isopods to manage their heat requirement properly. Dairy Cow isopods are prolific breeders. So, whenever they hit the breeding phase, sufficient food and other requirements have to be provided by the caregiver. If the owner plans to develop the isopod collection into a community, they must introduce male and female Dairy Cow isopods in the enclosure. During the breeding phase, protein is essential for Dairy Cows. The larvae can die off quickly if not supplemented with enough protein. So, enough protein supplements should be kept handy always by the owner. Feeding Being highly active and aggressive, the feeding habits and diet of these pods have to be given immense attention. They have a high appetite. Due to their high appetite, experts suggest not putting them in enclosures with smaller species.  The most common foods that Dairy Cows prefer to eat are decaying wood, leaf litter, etc. They also have a particular affinity towards vegetables like sweet potatoes. Some other vegetables that these isopods prefer to eat are as follows. Mushrooms Green beans Peas Hemp stalks Carrots Potatoes  Protein Protein is extremely crucial for the overall health and reproductive capabilities of Dairy Cows. The best protein sources for these isopods are as follows. Shrimp pellets Shrimp shells Shrimp meal Dried crickets Dried minnows, etc. Calcium Calcium is another essential element that must be added to the Dairy Cow diet. Calcium helps with the reproductive health, growth rate, and general well-being of the isopods. Some of the suitable calcium sources are as follows. Powdered eggshells   Cuttlebone   Organic kefir   Sea coral  Leaf Litter Leaf litter should be available in abundance in a daiy cow enclosure. The owner must pay special attention to providing pesticide-free leaves to the isopods. The best leaves for the Dairy Cow isopod diet are as follows. Oak leaves   Magnolia leaves   Cannabis leaves   Hemp leaves, etc. Dairy Cow Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour An adult Dairy Cow achieves a total body length of 2.3 centimeters. Despite the bigger size, they are highly active and fast. The body of the Dairy Cow isopods features a combination of black and white color. The pattern from black and white reminds the spectators of cows, which is why these isopods got their famous name. Like any other isopod, these isopods also have a segmented body. As mentioned before, they are fast-moving and, thus, require a good deal of space inside the enclosure to move around. Regarding behavior, Dairy Cows maintain an active and somewhat aggressive temperament. As they have a relatively bigger size in the isopod world, they physically push away other smaller isopods.  Experts also report that these isopods tend to push around even their juveniles. The bullying nature is mainly for getting more nutrients from others. Due to this bullying nature, Dairy Cow isopods are not considered great companion pets. Dairy Cow Isopods: Habitat Dairy Cows are much bigger than most other isopods. They are also highly mobile. Due to these reasons, they should have a reasonably big enclosure to inhabit.   Pet owners can use a reasonable-sized Tupperware container to accommodate the Dairy Cow isopods. Particular attention should be given to punch holes in the sides of the container for proper airflow.   While punching ventilation holes for the isopod enclosure, it is essential to ensure they are at unreachable heights for the isopods. Being highly active, Dairy Cow isopods can go out through the vent holes at accessible heights.   A good terrarium setup would be the right choice for culturing Dairy Cow isopods. Such setups have nutritious substrate surfaces, lots of leaf litter for consumption, and ample space to move around. Dairy Cow Isopods: Substrate Mix The substrate mix inside a Dairy Cow enclosure should have qualities like high moisture retention capacity, good aeration, and proper drainage. A substrate mix of orchid bark and sphagnum moss will suit the pods. These elements can keep the humidity inside the enclosure high always. Earthworm castings are a great addition to the substrate mix for growing Dairy Cow isopods. The critical thing to address while laying the substrate mix is that a part of the enclosure should always be dry. So, after laying the substrate mix, it is advisable to layer the designated dry area with soft bedding like peat moss or regular soil. It is also recommended to add several wood barks in the dry area for the isopods to hide. The damp area of the enclosure should only need a small layer of leaf litter above the substrate mix. While using leaf litter, boil the leaves to get them adequately sterilized.

Panda King isopods, which belong to the species of Cubaris, are known for their eye-catching white and black colour combination. This combination has a similar look to that of a Panda, which gave this species the name Panda. They are found to be slightly different when compared to other isopods. These species have an increasing fan base due to their interesting outer structure and lovely features, increasing the demand among pet owners.   Insight Place of Origin: Vietnam Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. 'Panda King' Maintenance Effort: Medium Ideal Temperature Range: 70℉ - 80℉ General Size:  ~ 1 cm Rareness: Low to Medium Humidity Range: 70% - 80% Preferred Diet: Fruit, vegetables, fish food  Supplements in Addition: Cuttlebone, eggshells Panda King Isopods: Introduction These isopods are generally observed in limestone caves and belong to central and northern parts of Vietnam. These species prefer to be in an environment which is humid. Isopods of length approximately 1.5 cm are seen generally. They play a major role in the ecosystem balancing, by feeding on the decaying plants and rotting wood. They supply nutrients to the soil by consuming the decaying matter, maintaining the balance of required nutrients in soil. Characteristics of Panda King Isopods These critters have black and white colour exoskeletons. They grow up to 1.5 cm in length.  Their striking and adorable features make them one of the most sought-after isopods. They are easy to care for and require minimum maintenance. They are beginner-friendly. They are nocturnal in nature. They breed rapidly once established in their habitat. They are detritivores in nature. It has a soft exoskeleton and is used to feed poison dart frogs and other small animals. Vegetables, greens, and fish food are good for maintaining nutrition. The consumption of calcium for these isopods is a bit higher than other isopod species. Feeding for Panda King Isopods These isopods feed on almost all types of food. They are essentially scavengers and feed on organic waste. However, during confinement in a cage, it is imperative to offer optimal nutrition. They can be supplemented with vegetables, greens, rotten leaves, or even wood. For calcium and protein, dried shrimp, fish food, cuttlebone, and egg shells are great for these species growth and development. Calcium powder is also good to give as a substitute.  Most isopod owners make the mistake of overfeeding the isopods. Overfeeding attracts pests into their enclosure. Therefore, it is important to feed the necessary quantity of food.  Natural Habitat Panda King isopods live in limestone caves and taverns. These species are commonly found in the central and northern parts of Thailand. In this region, caves are abundant. The caves are dark and humid; therefore, they are suitable for the isopods.  Panda King isopods are scavengers. They are also found among rotting leaves, fruits and vegetables. These species like to live in dark areas. They are shy in nature and like to burrow and hide. It is necessary to understand their natural habitat to build an artificial habitat for these isopods. Panda Kings: Breeding Panda King isopods are active species ready to reproduce unless acclimated to their surroundings.  Once they adapt to their surroundings, they start producing many offspring.  These isopods have a distinct mating ritual where the male isopods transfer sperm into the female's pleopods. The offspring hatch after six weeks after the eggs are attached to a firm surface. These offspring stay close to their mother, thus forming a small colony. Artificial Habitat of Panda King Isopods Panda King isopods thrive in humid environments. They are native to the tropical climates of Asia and need moisture to stay hydrated. Keep them in a small box to help them acclimate to a new environment. Once they're comfortable, transfer them to a plastic box with ventilation. Use deep bedding, including materials like old wood, dried leaves, and moss, for a cosy habitat.  It is necessary to prevent excess moisture as they may attract pests like mold and fruit flies. To combat this, adding springtails will help keep the environment clean and free of unwanted guests. It's important to keep the humidity right for the well-being of these isopods so they have a comfortable and healthy place to live. So, with proper care and attention to their habitat, you can enjoy the delightful presence of Panda King isopods in your home. Tank Mates for Panda King Isopods Panda King isopods like to live in a highly humid environment. Therefore, pairing them with similar invertebrates that appreciate humidity is best.  It is necessary that tankmates for the isopods should be from the same region as the Panda King. Therefore, invertebrates like snails are the best tank mates in terrarium and vivarium settings. Another species that is suitable to be paired with is springtails. These creatures, when together, will prevent any kinds of pests and will keep the bioactive clean. Preferred Substrate Mixture for Panda Kings A perfect substrate blend for Panda King Isopods is one that is deep, and also holds a lot of moisture. Use a small batch of coco coir, sphagnum moss, and orchid bark for the isopods, with the substrate depth reaching approximately 4 inches for burrowing.  Magnolia leaves enhance the habitat further, contributing to moisture retention and serving as excellent shelters for Panda King Isopods and their offspring. To mimic their natural surroundings, incorporate cork bark, dried oak leaves, and other elements into the enclosure. Wooden bark pieces are added to provide hiding spots, and dried leaves are added as food and for aesthetics. Sphagnum moss helps with moisture retention, which is a crucial factor for Panda King Isopods thriving in the environment. Although ventilation is necessary, it should be minimal to maintain the desired humidity gradient within the substrate. It should have both damp and dry areas. For nutrition, add earthworm castings and limestone powder to replicate their native habitat. This all-rounder substrate mix establishes a solid foundation, offering both sustenance and hydration to the isopods. Striking a balance between the various elements encourages natural behaviours and supports the physical health of Panda King Isopods in captivity. It allows them to thrive in an artificial environment that mimics the conditions of their natural habitat.

Isopods are tiny animals that do not have backbones. There are over 10,000 species of isopods present worldwide. Isopods are generally small creatures. Their size varies between a couple of micrometers up to a half meter (we don't sell those ones unfortunately) Isopods have a wide distribution geographically. Isopods are present in almost all terrains of the world. It is possible to find isopods in distinctive places like oceans, mountains, deserts, etc. Isopods have recently gained popularity as low-maintenance pets. They are great as beginner-friendly pets. Their ability to adapt to even the harshest conditions and relatively smaller size make them excellent pets.  In addition to being sold alone, they are also available in mystery boxes. Many isopod sellers/breeders offer isopod mystery boxes for customers to purchase. While purchasing a mystery box, the customer is unaware of the isopods that will be inside the box. This creates a high anticipation and excitement in the buyers. A General Overview Scientific Name: Isopoda   Class: Malacostraca   Kingdom: Animalia   Phylum: Arthropoda Isopod Mystery Box The Isopod mystery box is a very popular product for hobbyists for a variety of reasons. An isopod mystery box is a random collection of various isopods. The content and the isopod species in a mystery box will be unknown to the buyer until they receive it.  At PostPods, the isopod mystery boxes we offer contain extra isopods worth upto 50% more than the original  mystery box purchaseprice. These mystery boxes enable the buyer to receive a surprise element and the added value for the money paid. Although the selection of isopods for the mystery box is random, we list all the isopods we have available on our website. So, you will only recieve isopods from our listed items online. Why A Mystery Box? Brands and businesses worldwide have been developing a particular interest in the concept of mystery boxes. The idea of sending random products from a business’s collection sounds very interesting. It also creates a significant sense of curiosity and novelty for the buyers.  The pleasant surprise that the buyers feel when opening the mystery box is sure to cause significant dopamine release. The pleasure felt will be even more remarkable when the surprise is regarding live creatures or animals. Through mystery boxes of isopods, PostPods attempts to do the same. The team expects to make it a pleasant surprise for the buyers on which isopod they receive.  Types of Isopods in the Isopod Mystery Box As mentioned before, an isopod mystery box from PostPods contains some of the most popular types of isopods. They are explained in detail below (but not restricted to these types). Cubaris Cubaris is a very popular genus of creatures that contains over 100 species. Cubaris isopods are incredibly popular as pets as they require pretty low maintenance. When compared to other isopods, the Cubaris isopods have a relatively longer lifespan. Their reproduction rates are pretty low.  Cubaris isopods are very easy to take care of. These isopods are in high demand and are a bit expensive, so they are a valuable addition to any mystery box. The incredibly popular pet isopod called Rubber Ducky comes under the Cubaris genus. Some of the other famous members of the Cubaris genus are as follows. Porcellio Porcellio isopods are a possible addition to the isopod mystery boxes. Porcellio genus isopods are in great demand in the pet isopod world. Isopods of the Porcellio genus are found around the globe. Many isopods in the genus can withstand almost all kinds of harsh conditions. As of now, about 200 species have been reported to be a part of the Porcellio genus. A good number of these species are suitable to rear as pets. The very popular pet isopod called Dairy Cow is a member of the Porcellio genus. The isopods in the Porcellio genus generate great curiosity among buyers for their unique defence mechanism of running in a maze-like pattern. Their polymorphic trait is also unique. Armadillidium Armadillidium is a highly sold pet isopod genus. The isopod members of this genus are all in wide demand worldwide. The characteristic feature of the Armadillidium genus isopods is their ability to roll into a ball as part of the defence. Armadillidium isopods are one of the most commonly available isopods. They are also sold in bulk numbers due to the ease of caring for them. There are about 189 species present in the Armadillidium genus. 

Originally from Thailand, Rubber Ducky isopods have stormed the isopod petting industry. These tiny creatures with rubber duck-like facial features are now some of the bestselling isopods worldwide. Most importantly, they were found relatively recently, in 2017. These collectible isopods are rare and need relatively higher humidity than most other isopods to survive. Rubber Ducky Isopods: A Glimpse Origin:Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan Scientific Name:Cubaris sp. Difficulty Level: Medium Size: Up to 1.5 cm Rarity: Very High Temperature: 70F to 80F Humidity: 70% TO 80% Favorite Foods:Dried shrimp, leaf litter, etc. Rubber Ducky Isopods: An Overview Rubber Ducky isopods are given the name due to their resemblance to the popular rubber duck toy in color and facial features. They are originally a part of the crustacean species. They are native to Asia's highly humid limestone caves, especially in Thailand. Therefore, a highly humid environment is necessary for them to survive. Although they are the most popular isopods globally, they are rare and unique. These exotic creatures are especially attracted to vegetables like cucumbers and sweet potatoes. Despite loving vegetables, they are essentially detritivores. Their non-aggressive temperament and small size make them the perfect beginner-friendly pet isopods.  Rubber Ducky Isopods: Basic Care Rubber Ducky isopods need to have a highly humid environment to survive. So, you have to always keep the tank warm and humid. The temperature inside the tank should be between 25 and 28 degrees Celsius. You should also maintain the humidity level between 75% to 90%. The Rubber Ducky isopods usually start breeding within a few weeks. Specifically, the female isopods start breeding at three months old. Rubber Ducky Isopods: Feeding The Rubber Ducky isopods need to have a protein and calcium-richdiet. They require all the essential nutrients to survive well in a new environment. As this species is slower-growing, you must feed them occasionally to aid their growth. You can use the following food items to feed them. Calcium Rubber Ducky isopods are naturally present in limestone caves and similar calcium-rich areas.   They require a significant amount of calcium to grow and reproduce. The best calcium-rich food items you can give these isopods are the following. Cuttlebone   Powdered eggshells   Limestone   Sea corrals Protein Protein is crucial to the breeding health of the isopods. Following are the best food options for these isopods regarding protein. Shrimp shells   Insects like crickets   Shrimp meal   Shrimp pellets   Organic yeast Leaf Litter Leaf litter is unavoidable for them.   It is essential to provide them with pesticide-free leaf litter.   Leaf litter is pretty affordable and easily available.   You can give a lot of leaf litter to the isopods every time you feed them. The most suitable leaf options for them are as follows. Oak leaves   Magnolia leaves   Cannabis leaves   Seed blends Rubber Ducky isopods are detritivores. In other words, they are interested in eating decaying matter. So, keeping some decaying fruits, softwood, etc., in the enclosure is also advisable. Rubber Ducky Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour Appearance Rubber Ducky isopods are the most popular for their appearance. Their unique facial structure makes them look similar to the rubber duck toy. Their heads also have a similar yellow color, making them further identical to the real rubber ducks. They usually grow up to 1.5 cm. On the other hand, certain variants can grow up to two centimeters. They are available in shades of brown and yellow. Their body is divided into seven segments. Each segment of this isopod has a separate pair of legs. Among the multiple legs, two are for burrowing. They use these burrowing legs to dig as deep as six inches. They have two antennae on their heads. These antennas help them with navigation. On both these antennas, there are small projections called Cerci. Cerci is used as a sensory organ by these isopods. Behavior Rubber Ducky isopods are known for their calm temperament. This calm behavior is one of the primary reasons for its popularity. They don’t mind interacting with other pets and animals. But keeping the small pets separate from them is advisable to avoid conflict. They usually prefer to remain in the tanks where they get enough food. So, they typically do not try to escape from the tanks. These isopods interact with humans, too.  But the human interaction may take some time. However, they interact with the keepers and other animals once comfortable with their surroundings. These isopods gradually get comfortable with their surroundings. They develop a playful temperament once they feel comfortable.  Many of these isopods even let the keepers take them in their hands and play. They usually spend several minutes in the keeper’s hands. Rubber Ducky Isopods: Habitat The habitat you create for a Rubber Ducky isopod must have the following features. The tank should always be warm and humid.   The water should always maintain a pH level between 8.0 and 8.5.   The hardness of the water inside the tank should be between 10° and 15° DH.   The tanks need to have a good amount of light. You can use terrarium lights as light sources.   The lights should not shine directly on the isopods. Rubber Ducky Isopods: Substrate Mix These isopods need to have a rich substrate mix.   As they dig about six inches deep, you must fill the substrate mix at a good thickness in the tank.   The essential things to add to the substrate mix are limestone, decaying matter, leaf litter, etc.   The substrate mix should have peat moss and coco coir. 

Powder Orange isopod also known as Porcellionides pruinosus. These terrestrial species are a distinct orange hue, which contrast the environment they live. Due to this colour and its striking feature, they are a popularly chosen for terrarium and vivarium.  Insight Scientific Name: Porcellionides pruinosus Origin: Southern Europe, Mediterranean Maintenance: Low Size: 3 cm. Lifespan: 1 to 2 years Reproduction: Egg layer Humidity:60% Temperature: 65°F to 85°F Rarity: Low Supplements: Cuttlebone, calcium powder Powder Orange Isopods: Abstract Powder Orange Isopods originated from warm humid climates of Southern Europe, in the Mediterranean region. Due to its popularity now they’re found worldwide.  The Powder Orange isopods got its name from its striking orange to tan shade colour and the powdery appearance on the exoskeleton. They originated from the mutation of the Powder Blue isopods. These creatures are hardy, prolific and their diet is bigger than their body.  Due to their striking appearance they are widely appreciated in the terrarium and vivarium communities and also among isopod loving enthusiasts Powder Orange Isopods: Characteristics and Behaviour They are originated from the Mediterranean region specifically from Southern Europe They can survive extreme environments but they like slightly humid environments. These species are orange mutation of Powder Blue isopods Their carapace is soft unlike other isopods. They are used as snacks for other creatures like frogs, lizards These species are medium-sized and they grow up to 3 cm in length. They are non aggressive and have a calm temperament. They are detritivores. They are the Clean-up crew in the terrarium and vivarium. They are more active at night than during daytime. These creatures are fast and they run and hide when threatened. They are known for social behaviour, thrive in groups They are hardy and highly proactive They are beginner friendly They are not suitable for small kids as these species are soft bodied and kids may not be able to handle it. Powder Orange Isopods: Temperature and Humidity Orange Isopods are best suited for beginners. This is because they adapt to a wide range of temperature and moisture. Even the ideal temperature for these critters should be around 75°F. This temperature is more conducive for them to stay in the area. The Powder Orange isopods are originally from a tropical and arid climate. Therefore humidity is crucial and has to be maintained accordingly. The humidity gradient has to be around 65% but anything above 50% humidity is fine for these species. Food and Diet The Powder Orange isopods have a voracious appetite. It is surprising how much these critters can eat. They primarily feed on detritus. They consume dead organic matter. Therefore, they help maintain bioactive cleanliness. Powder Orange Isopods eat pretty much anything. Like most isopods, they eat leaf litters and decaying cork bark.  But unlike their natural habitat, it is crucial to provide sufficient nutrients for them in an artificial enclosure.   Vegetables: carrots, sweet potatoes, greens. This acts as an alternate food from their usual dried leaf and decayed wood diet.  Protein rich food : Protein is crucial as this helps to maintain their exoskeleton. Also because these creatures are active, especially during night, it is important to provide sufficient nutrition. Fish food, meat scraps, earthworm castings are some of the food given for their calcium and protein. Sometimes supplements like Cuttlebone or calcium powder are also added as alternate source of protein.  Specialised isopod food : Sometimes for the isopods to get all the nutrition it is easier to provide specialised isopod food.  When feeding the isopods, there is a common mistake done by pet parents, which is overfeeding. Overfeeding will attract unwanted pests into the enclosure. Therefore it is necessary to feed them the necessary amount of food that they can finish in a single session.  Powder Orange Isopods: Breeding Powder Orange isopods breeding process is called “Pairing”. Two isopods mate to produce offspring.  The male transfer their spermatophore to the female isopod The female isopods extract the spermatophore and store it in her reproductive tract. These later help to fertilise and lay numerous eggs in soil or other soft object. The eggs incubate for several weeks till it hatch The offspring hatched will go through a series of molting till it reaches the adulthood stage. Powder Orange Isopods: Artificial Enclosure Setting Powder Orange Isopods prefer an arid humid habitat. As a small species, an average size enclosure made of plastic or glass will be suitable to begin. This is apt for those who have started with their isopod journey.  Once it starts showing positive signs like breeding and multiplying their numbers, which they will as they are very proficient, upgrade their enclosure to a bigger size. Make sure to provide small holes as they tend to break out when the ventilation is too big. Provide just enough ventilation so that the enclosure doesn’t get too humid. It attracts pests. When providing humidity to the enclosure, make sure to leave an area dry. When spraying water, make sure to do that in one area and leave other areas dry. Provide a good number of options for them to crawl and dig. Powder Orange isopods are more terrestrial creatures than burrowers. Equip the enclosure with dried leaves, wooden pieces, moss for these creatures to crawl and explore. It is quite a sight to watch them crawling.  Powder orange isopods are social creatures. They live well in colonies. Accompanying them with springtails will help keep the biosphere clean. Also add some terrestrial snails as they live together well in a humid environment. Powder Orange Isopods: Substrate    ABG Substrate mix is provided for Powder Orange Isopod. This substrate mix when topped with dried leaf litter as food is best suitable for these critters.  An alternate substrate mix for Powder Orange isopods will be by providing coco peat, sphagnum moss and plenty of leaf litter.  Both substrate mixes are suitable for the Isopods. Provide good depth of substrate base for the creatures to dig. Also provide a lot of options for the isopods to crawl and hide. They are active creatures, especially at night. Therefore, provide the enclosure with wood bark, rotten wood and dried leaves. Occasionally provide them earthworm casting as supplement to the substrate. This ensures to keep the isopods healthy. By ensuring these methods, the Powder isopods will thrive well and produce a lot of mini isopods.

White Shark isopods are also known as White Shark Dwarf isopods. These isopods are one of the most minor Cubaris sp. They are fascinating, adorable, widely appreciated, and more prevalent among exotic pet lovers and admirers. Synopsis Origin: Thailand Scientific Name:Cubaris sp Size: 8mm Temperature: 75°F to 80°F Maintenance: Easy to medium Humidity: 60% to 80% Supplement: Cuttlebone, Limestone Rarity: Low Abstract White shark Isopods of the Crustaceans order are native to Thailand. They have orange, white, and dark blue exoskeletons. These Cubaris sp. thrive more than any other cubaris sp. and are suitable to breed in an enclosure. These critters are like every isopod; they are diurnal and consume rotten plant and organic matter, thus maintaining the ecosystem. Like most isopods, they have a huge appetite and eat almost everything. These critters roll and form a ball when threatened. These creatures thrive in tropical habitats with high humidity and high lime-content soil. They are shy and reclusive species and often like burrowing in the soil.  Behaviour and Appearance It has a tricolour carapace with orange, white and dark blue. They can grow up to 0.8 cm long. They are one of the smallest species. Their colour and small size make it adorable and visually appealing. They are active at night. i.e. nocturnal They are easy to care for if kept at an optimal temperature and humidity. They prefer humid environments. Around 80% humid 20%dry. They need moisture for moulting. They feed on vegetables, greens, fish food, and decaying leaves. Limestone and cuttlefish are suitable for calcium and protein. They are not beginner-friendly, but they will thrive well if taken care of them. They are child-friendly. Feeding Unlike other Cubaris species, White Shark Dwarf isopods require a high-nutrition diet. The main food components are fodder leaves and flaky soil with rotten white wood given on alternate days. These creatures need protein twice a week, vegetables, and dried leaves. Protein-rich food like cuttlefish bone, oyster shells, and limestone powder keep them healthy.  Breeding Offsprings White Shark Isopods are active species ready to reproduce unless acclimated to their surroundings. It takes a month for them to establish. Once they adapt to their surroundings, they start producing many offspring.  These creatures are highly active in breeding, and therefore, they may produce many offspring. Consequently, monitoring their behaviour and taking care of these creatures is necessary.  White Shark Isopod: Temperature and Habitat For the White shark isopod, it is necessary to have an enclosure made of plastic or glass. The enclosure should be big enough to support their colony. They should have a small ventilation.  Moisture is essential for White Shark isopods. Maintaining a humid environment is crucial for the overall health of White Shark Isopods. Maintaining the enclosure 80% moist and the rest dry allows them to regulate their hydration. White Shark isopods can survive low temperatures. But the optimal temperature for the creatures to breed will be around 75°F to 80°F. It takes time for White Shark Isopods to get adapted to the environment. Once they adapt, they start producing offspring due to the provided good environmental conditions and habitat.  Also, it is necessary to provide a thick substrate base for them to burrow and dig. They are shy and reclusive and like to get burrowed in. Burrowing also helps them to maintain the moisture inside their body. Therefore, providing an ideal environment with a dense substrate is necessary.  Excess humidity is not ideal for the White Shark Isopods to live in. This will invite uninvited pests like mould, gnats, mites and fruit flies. Also, excessive moisture may affect the isopods' moulting and cause them to die off. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain the high humidity but not too much. Proper ventilation will help in getting rid of excess moisture in their habitat. Substrate Mixture Creating a good substrate mix is essential. Since the White Shark isopods are humidity-loving creatures, providing a suitable substrate mix is necessary. Two types of substrate mix bases exist for the White Shark Dwarf isopods. One consists of an ABG substrate mix with oak leaf litter, cottonwood bark and live moss. Atlanta Botanical Garden or ABG mix is a standard mixture for terrarium and vivarium. This mixture is also used as a substrate mix. It has a mixture of substrates that helps create a balance of elements in the artificial habitat for isopods.  Drainage Water retention Retention of nutrients Compaction resistance   Long Lasting   The substrate mix should consist of the following items: Sphagnum moss: 1 part Tree fern fibre: 2 part Orchid bark: 2 part Peat moss: 1 part One part charcoal This mixture can be used as a substrate base for the  White Shark isopods' enclosure. While providing the enclosure with the base, make a thick base. This helps the creatures for digging and moulting. There is another substrate mix for the White Shark isopods. They consist of the following items: Coconut humus Mixed soil Wooden bark Orchid Moss Both these substrate mixes are suitable for White Shark isopods. This mix provides the enclosure the necessary base for the habitat that they're from Too much humidity and dampness can cause moulting issues and sudden die-offs. Therefore, it is crucial to provide space for moisture to escape. Providing small ventilation can help solve the issue. Also, adding decaying wood pieces, cork bark, and piles of leaf litter can help with excess moisture. This helps in mimicking the natural habitat they are from.  White Shark Isopods need a lot of protein. Therefore, limestone powder is added to both substrates, mimicking their habitat. Earthworm casting, cuttlefish bone, oyster shell, and fish food are other better supplements for these critters.  These isopods need places to hide and explore. Therefore, providing a wooden bark will help provide them a hiding space.  In conclusion, this well-balanced substrate mix helps sustain the physical health of White Shark isopods mimicking their natural habitat. This encourages them to bring out natural behaviour, adapt and breed offspring.

Crystal Pineapple Isopods or Cristarmadillidium muricatum are one of the rarest and unique species. These isopods are little in size and have yellow to orange spikes on the exoskeleton. Due to its appearance, they have captured the attention of a lot of exotic pet enthusiasts.  Crystal Pineapple Isopods: Insight Scientific Name: Cristarmadillidium muricatum Other Common Name: European Spiny Isopod Origin: Spain Size: 8 mm Difficulty level: Medium Breeding rate: Normal Temperature: 64℉ to 75℉ Rarity: High Humidity: 50% to 70% (Dry arid environment) Favorite food: decaying leaves, rotting white wood, molting of invertebrates and reptiles Supplements: cuttlefish bone, limestone Crystal Pineapple Isopods: Introduction The Crystal Pineapple Isopods are native to the Mediterranean region of Spain. These species are quite shy and prefer to hide under leaves and cork bark. They are active during nighttime and early mornings.  Their striking features and colour is what makes them unique from other species. They are rare and are a tad bit difficult to take care of. Due to its tiny appearance, it needs to be handled with care.  Crystal Pineapple Isopods: Characteristics and Traits Has a spiky exoskeleton that resembles a pineapple. They grow up to 0.8 cm in length. They are one of the smallest isopods. They are nocturnal; therefore, they are active during the night and early mornings.  The isopods roll into a ball when they sense danger. They have a light yellow to washed-out orange color, which is different from other bright-colored isopods. They are hard and easy to breed on decayed leaves and rotting wood.  Like other Spanish species, these prefer dry and arid environments.  When maintained at the desired temperature and humidity, it enables breeding and producing large broods. These species require plenty of air circulation in their enclosure to mimic the environment.  Crystal Pineapple Isopods: Diet As detritivores, these roly polys consume pretty much everything. But in captivity, providing various types of food is important. It helps to maintain the health of the isopods. Suitable foods include leaves, rotten wooden bark of oak, and white wood, which will help provide nutrition as well as a habitat for the creatures.  Vegetable scraps and vegetables like carrots and cucumbers help to provide necessary nutrition. It is crucial to add protein twice a week in their diet, therefore fish food, molting of other reptiles and invertebrates and dried shrimp is added for protein. Substitutes like cuttlebone and limestone provide a rich source of calcium which is necessary for this species. It is crucial to avoid feeding food that has no salt in it and wooden bark and leaves have no pesticide. Crystal Pineapple Isopods: Basic Care and Maintenance To maintain the thriving population, it is crucial to provide basic care for the isopods. People who are pets to these creatures require timely care and attention.  Check and make sure the temperature of the enclosure is maintained regularly. It is important to make sure that the temperature falls within their ideal range. Though these creatures prefer a dry atmosphere, it doesn't mean a desert-like atmosphere. Providing moisture on parts that have sphagnum moss helps to retain and provide necessary hydration. Make sure to maintain the humidity at the ideal humidity level for the isopods to thrive.  To maintain a healthy environment, it is important to clean the enclosure and remove any remaining food bits within the substrate.  Make sure to occasionally add supplements like oyster shells and cuttlebone for better nutrition.  Monitor the size of the brood and make sure to provide another enclosure if the species are overpopulated. This helps to prevent overcrowding and competition among species for food and other resources.  Maintain the enclosure free of fruit flies, molds, gnats, and other harmful parasites that may affect the population. Providing timely supplements into the enclosure for the species to have a healthy exoskeleton.  Crystal Pineapple Isopods: Natural Habitat These crustaceans are native to the Mediterranean region of Spain. Their natural habitat is dry and arid, with less moisture and plenty of ventilation. These critters do require water but in very small quantities. Though these isopods are quite versatile, it is important to mimic their natural habitat. This helps to provide an optimal environment for the breeding and health of the isopods.  Crystal Pineapple Isopods: Artificial Setting Creating a suitable environment in an artificial setting is important. It helps to maintain optimal health and bring out their natural character for hobbyists to admire and observe.  The isopods have to be kept in a shoebox-size enclosure. The temperature must be maintained around 18℃ to 24℃, which is ideal for the critters to breed and for optimal health. Since they are from an arid region, the setting should mirror their natural habitat. Even though these isopods prefer arid, they still need hydration. Therefore, adding sphagnum moss helps retain moisture in the artificial setting.  These species prefer plenty of airflow in the enclosure. When setting up an artificial setting, it is important to invest in an enclosure with ventilation. The ventilation needs to be small or covered with mesh to prevent these creatures from escaping. If opting for a DIY method, make sure to drill small holes around the enclosure above the substrate to maintain the microclimate of the artificial setting.  Premium substrate mixes for isopods are available in stores, which helps provide a perfect mix of elements. These elements include: Flake soil Organic potting soil Oyster seashell Sphagnum moss Adding the substrate mix provides a perfect base for the artificial setting. Make sure to provide a thick bed of around 3 inches to provide ample space for the creatures to hide and dig. When adding the substrate, opt for an isopod substrate mix, which provides a complete base for the enclosure. Add leaves on the substrate along with limestone rocks to the substrate. For hydration, add sphagnum moss to the side of the box instead of covering the whole enclosure. Make sure to provide wooden bark as well to provide hiding space and mimic the natural environment.  Since these species are shy in nature, therefore cork bark flat helps to provide hiding space for the isopod brood. Adding dried leaves and limestone also acts as a hiding space as well as provide necessary nourishment for the isopods. By taking these steps, one can create a perfect environment for the Crystal Pineapple Isopods to reproduce and thrive well.  

Zebra Isopods (Armadillidium maculatum) are the most commonly sought-after isopods. For most people, zebras are the first isopod they purchase as an aspiring hobbyist and breeder. They have a striking colour and can be line-bred/isolated to produce better stripes on them.   Zebra Isopods: Insight Place of Origin: France Scientific Name: Armadillidium maculatum Environment: Semi-arid Ideal Temperature: 75℉-80℉ Breeding Difficulty: Intermediate General Size: 1.8 cm Rareness: Low Humidity Range: 70%-80% Diet: soft-boiled plants, fish food, moss Supplements: calcium powder   Zebra Isopods: Abstract These are some of the isopods that pet lovers keep for aesthetics, more than just a cleanup tool in terrariums and vivariums. They have striking black and white stripes on their exoskeleton, which helps to ward off predators in the wild. Though they are from the family of common pill bugs, their distinctive features stood out. These beautiful species are native to the arid regions of the Mediterranean and Southern France.    Zebra Isopods: Special Characteristics They have distinct black and white stripes, which resemble the pattern of zebras.  They have smooth, domed, and tough exteriors. These roly polys grow up to 1.8 cm. Their antennae are shorter compared to other isopod species.  These species prefer moderate to high ventilation.  They are from the deciduous forests of the Mediterranean and French regions. When threatened, these isopods roll into a ball. Resilient and easy to maintain.  They are active and not too shy once they establish and settle in.  These isopods make the best choice for beginners. They are widely popular isopods and are budget-friendly.    Zebra Isopods: Morphs Zebra Isopods are commonly seen in black and white stripes. However, there are various morphs developed by breeders. Some of them are:- Yellow Zebra Isopods: They have yellow and black stripes. Chocolate Zebra Isopods: Has white stripes with a dark brown base colour. Dalmatian Zebra Isopods: Also known as high white isopods. They have a predominantly white color with black spots.  Spotted Zebra Isopods: They have white spots instead of stripes.    Zebra Isopods: Artificial Enclosure There are several factors to consider for an ideal enclosure of Zebra Isopods. These isopods require a large container to accommodate their needs. Though the size may vary depending on the colony, it is always better to opt for bigger enclosure boxes for them to breed and thrive.    It is essential to provide ventilation to the enclosure for good airflow and humidity maintenance. Choosing a container with ventilation outlets covered with mesh will be suitable for the Zebra Isopods. For those who prefer DIY, drilling holes in the container's sides will also help provide the necessary ventilation.    These holes should be strategically placed to facilitate cross-ventilation while minimizing escape risk. While zebra isopods may not possess exceptional climbing abilities, covering any ventilation openings with a fine mesh is still advisable to prevent them from escaping. This precautionary measure ensures the safety of the isopods within their enclosure.   Zebra Isopods: Substrate The right substrate mix helps to provide an optimal environment for the isopods. A classic choice for substrate mix is the ABG Mix, which offers the perfect base for the isopod setting.    In addition to the mix, the coir of coconut works as an excellent material to retain moisture. This will help make the same environment as their original environment. Coconut coir and sphagnum moss are very loose materials, which will help them burrow inside as they do in their natural environment.   Leaf litter is the primary food source and provides hiding spaces for isopods. They contribute to the nutrient cycle within the enclosure of the isopods.    The discharge from the earthworms is a rich source of organic matter, and it contains microorganisms. It provides valuable nutrients for the isopods. This addition promotes soil fertility and helps sustain a thriving ecosystem within the enclosure.    Zebra Isopods prefer arid temperatures with less humidity. While maintaining overall high humidity, providing a drier section within the habitat allows the isopods to choose their preferred microclimate. When misting, make sure to mist on a small area, leaving the rest of the container dry.    Zebra Isopods: Tips to Care Zebra isopods require a less humid environment but not a dry and deserted environment. Therefore, it is essential to provide the necessary moisture for hydration.  Provide a lot of hiding spots within the enclosure for the isopods to form their colonies. Adding wooden bark, dried leaves, and stones to the enclosure helps to mimic their natural environment and acts as hiding spots. It is important to maintain the temperature range of the enclosure. Extreme temperature fluctuations can be stressful for the isopods.  Regular maintenance is crucial to keep the enclosure clean. Make sure to remove excess uneaten food, molting, and any mold to keep a healthy environment.  An overcrowded isopod enclosure may lead to competition for resources. Therefore, it is important to maintain the number in an enclosure. If the isopod population is increasing, relocate to a bigger enclosure or provide a separate enclosure for the new colonies.    Zebra Isopods: Temperature and Humidity Zebra Isopods prefer a slightly warm temperature of 75℉ to 80℉. It is crucial to maintain the temperature. During winter, it is ideal to provide heating mats to the enclosure to maintain the optimal temperature.    It can be difficult to maintain a balance between humidity levels, particularly when ventilation and a dry region are required inside the enclosure. Excessively high humidity levels should be avoided, even if some moisture is required, especially to support the isopods' hydration and maintain a healthy substrate.    Zebra Isopods: Food and Diet Feeding them with the right food and having a perfect mix of supplements will help make them remain healthy. It also ensures that they are reproducing healthy offspring.   The container in which they are kept should be supplied with a large amount of decaying organic materials, which will help them get the necessary nutrients. In addition, litters of leaf or bark of the wood can also be fed as part of the feeding cycle. Other supplements include:-   Flakes of Fish Food: It is an easy supplement and contains high amounts of protein. Pieces of Vegetables: A portion of the vegetable or the remains from vegetable cutting in small amounts can be supplied. It has to be ensured that it should not be supplied in large quantities. Food specially made for the Isopods: Specially designed food always has the best mix of nutrients, which will make them remain healthy and give a longer life span.  

One of the most popular Japanese isopods, the magic potion isopods, originates from the Mediterranean region. These medium to large-sized species are arguably beginner-friendly and make a great fit for display setups. They are visually striking. They require low maintenance and upkeep. Thus, high-end magic potion isopods are one of the most unique and fascinating isopod species that can be kept as pets. A Glimpse Origin: Japan Scientific Name: Armadillidium vulgare Difficulty Level: Easy Size: Up to 1.6 Centimeters Rarity: Low/ Medium Temperature: 60℉ to80℉ Humidity: 10% to 60% Favourite Foods: Grasses, Lichen, Decaying Wood Magic Potion Isopods: An Overview Magic Potion isopods are well-known to be a great addition to the terrarium and vivarium setups. These Mediterranean natives are acclaimed by collectors and enthusiasts alike for their mesmerizing colors.They make an excellent choice for beginners. They have colors resembling the magical hues of a potent potion. They possess natural scavenging abilities. They help in breaking down the waste within an enclosure. Being Mediterranean natives, Magic potion isopods grow in moist environments where there is fresh water in excess. They need to be grown in groups as they are social creatures. They possess many features and behaviors. You can keep them in many different types of habitats, such as plastic enclosures, glass enclosures, vivariums, and terrariums. They are also known to consume their own molts. Magic potion isopods feed on many different types of foods. They can eat a variety of different foods such as fruits, vegetables, decaying matter, meat, protein, etc. You must provide a varied diet to these isopods to ensure they receive all the essential nutrients to survive. A balanced humidity level is necessary. You can regularly mist the enclosure to maintain a balanced humidity level. Magic Potion Isopods: Basic Care You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to the Magic Potion isopods. You can use plastic enclosures, glass enclosures, vivariums, and terrarium habitats for housing Magic Potion isopods. Maintain the container’s temperature within 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. There should be a balanced relative humidity between 10 to 60 percent inside the enclosure. You can use a substrate to regulate the moisture level for the isopods within the enclosure. Make sure it consists of nutritional content to ensure optimal health. Don’t keep the enclosure in direct light.   Select more arid setups to keep the isopods. A few holes on the sides of the enclosure can help get the air moving.   You can feed these isopods forest materials such as leaf litter, decaying wood, fish food supplements, calcium supplements, fruits, vegetables, small amounts of meat and protein, fungus, and other organic materials available in the environment.   Feeding Magic potion isopods are detrivores. They feed on food like decaying plant matter, vegetables, fruits, and small amounts of meat and protein. They also feed on decaying wood, leaf litter, etc.  Magic Potion Isopods are notoriously bold and active in comparison to other isopods. You can use supplements such as calcium and fish food to help maintain a balanced diet for them. One mistake that all Magic Potion Isopod owners should avoid is overfeeding. In moist environments, any leftover food can deteriorate rapidly and encourage mold growth. This can disturb the nutritional balance within the enclosure. This is why you should always feed these isopods with the right amount of food so that they can finish off in one feeding session. Magic Potion isopods crave food that is rich in calcium. However, you can always feed these omnivores with fruits, decaying plant matter, and vegetables. Magic Potion Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour Magic Potion isopod is very small in size. It can grow up to 1.6 centimeters in length. These isopods have distinctive patterns on their back. Their bodies exhibit natural hues just like any magic potion usually would. These isopods easily curl themselves up into a tight ball in order to protect their underbellies, which are relatively soft. These isopods have the extraordinary ability to regenerate their lost limbs, similar to other crustaceans and isopods. These isopods are active and social animals. They can be commonly seen bonding and interacting with other isopods within the enclosure. These are fascinating and unique species. They help break down decaying and recycle organic matter, making them one of the best decomposers. These isopods have milky white bodies with dark and yellow coloured spots. They are purely white in the beginning. As the individuals mature, they develop multi-colored spots. They are hardy and a joy to keep. They are low-maintenance and need minimal upkeep. They make an exciting visual spectacle.   Magic Potion Isopods: Habitat Magic Potion isopods prefer drier environments, but you will need a balance of moist and dry environments for them to thrive. They need proper ventilation, so make sure that their enclosure has enough holes to ensure the air keeps moving. These isopods are more suitable for arid setups. However, many pet owners recommend you keep them in tropical terrariums to help them thrive. They can handle almost anything from dry to moist environments.  They make great bioactive cleaners. Their burrowing activities help to refresh and replenish the environment within the closure. They help to enrich the soil. They promote healthy plant growth.  Also, you can always set up their hydration station in the corner to ensure medium humidity within the enclosure. Magic Potion Isopods: Substrate Mix The substrate mix you select is important because it will help the isopods maintain their moisture levels.You can use coco coir and sphagnum moss as the base. Then, you can supplement earthworm and orchid bark castings for fertilizing nutrients. Given their detritivores nature, adding peat moss and a layer of leaf litter into the substrate mix will enable them to maintain moistness within the enclosure. Magic Potion Isopods feed on decomposing organic material. Make sure your substrate mix consists of something rich in nutritional value. A tropical terrarium substrate will serve as a great starting point for you.

Clown isopods are bright and colourful and stand out among other isopods. Due to its appearance, it resembles the outfit of a clown, thus the name. They are also referred to as Montenegro isopods. Their unique characters and environmental needs make them different from others. These isopods are attractive and are widely sought after among enthusiasts.  Highlights Scientific Name: Armadillidium Klugii Origin: Montenegro, Europe Difficulty: Low to medium Rarity: Low Temperature : 64℉ to 82℉  Size: 1.8 cm Humidity: Medium (50%) Food: Soft plants, moss Supplement: Cuttlebone Clown Isopods: An Overview Clown isopods are named for their characteristic spotted colours in varieties of yellow and white. Their distinct appearance helps to deter predators in the wild. Interestingly, these species' temperaments don't match their appearance as they are shy in nature. They are originally from Montenegro, the southern part of Europe.  The Clown isopods are available in different varieties depending on the region. The Clown Isopods Montenegro has red skirts with dark bodies and coloured polka dots.   Clown Isopods: Characteristic Features These isopods are from the Balkan region of Southern Europe. These species grow around half an inch to less than 2 cm.  Hard carapace with a dark colour body with red edges and yellow and creamy white spots.  These species are nocturnal and feed on dead organisms, aiding in the decomposition process.  Their striking colouration helps them defend themselves from predators, as it is thought to be due to mimicry of a spider that is native to their natural habitat. These species are active during the night and forage for food in the dark. They prefer shelter in damp, covered areas like leaf litter, rotting wood and burrows.  They are social and live in clusters to regulate temperature and microenvironment for optimal survival conditions and to ward off predators.  These isopods roll up in a ball when threatened.  Due to their unique characteristics and temperament, they are widely appreciated in the community of exotic pets. They are both hard and easy to maintain.  Food Requirement Clown Isopods feed on the standard isopod diet, which consists of decomposing leaves and softwoods. They eat almost all kitchen vegetable scraps. These species also enjoy snacking on moss and soft plants from time to time. It is crucial to feed the necessary quantity of food and keep them supplied.  They have a hard exoskeleton. Thus, they need protein and calcium in their food. Incorporating dried shrimp and fish food adds calcium and protein to their diet. Occasional supplementary feeding is also beneficial for health, maintaining the state of an individual. The best supplements to give birds as an additional source are Cuttlebone or powdered calcium supplements.   Clown Isopods: Habitat Moderate humidity in the enclosure is good for clown isopods. These isopods are slow at first in a new enclosure. Thus, when introducing them into a terrarium or vivarium it is required to culture them separately in order to increase their number and breed well under these conditions. The best container size for medium-sized isopods would be a shoe box sized. For proper ventilation, these enclosures must have a means of letting out air or provide it by drilling holes around the box. The ventilations should be netted to avoid jail breaking.   Clown Isopods: Humidity and Temperature An ideal temperature for Clown Isopods should be a room temperature of 70℉ to 85℉.  When starting out a new culture, it will be better to keep the temperature on the higher side of the given temperature range.  Isopods require a minimum humidity level to breathe. Humidity should be around 50% above for these species to survive.  It is important to monitor their behaviour in terms of temperature and humidity to find if the given environment is suitable for them or not.    Clown Isopods: Substrate The living conditions of these isopods are preferably a combination of a dry and wet area carefully divided between each other. The wet or humid area is to be placed in the corner, and the other areas may be kept dry. The ratio between damp and dry has to be in such a way that it is ⅓ wet area and the rest ⅔ dry area.  An environment made for them, with increased humidity, is not preferable for these types of isopods. In some artificial setup environments, it is a common practice to set up mist-making devices that make the environment highly humid. This type of environment with a high percentage of humidity is not all comfortable for the isopods. It requires very little water poured along the sides of the wet side. The other advantage with these isopods is that, these isopods act as cleaning organisms in a comparatively drier environment. It isn't easy to achieve this division of dry and wet areas in a single area. However, by using some special kind of mix, this condition can be achieved, making it comfortable for your pets. Substrate mixes for Clown isopods are different from other types. The substrate mix should consist of standard base ingredients like coco fibre, sphagnum moss, sand, and boiled leaf substrate. When providing the substrate, the wet area of the substrate should consist of a moisture-retaining ABG mix.  When providing the substrate base, it is important to provide suitable depth for the isopods to hide and burrow. Adding decomposing leaves and softwood mimics their natural homeland and provides a constant source of food and hiding.  These isopods can be paired with species like garden snakes that live in similar environments and temperatures, making it a great bioactive setup. Add wooden pieces and barks for the isopod colonies to hide and add to the aesthetics of the enclosure.  These species require protein in their substrate mix, therefore, supplements like calcium powder or cuttlebone are added into the mix to maintain isopod health. In conclusion, it is important to use the right amount of substrate, humidity and temperature for these isopods to live and thrive. Therefore, it is crucial to follow these methods so that they can breed, multiply and live happily in the environment.

The Moo Cow isopods are one of the morphs of Porcellio Scaber and are beginner friendly isopods for enthusiasts who are new to the hobby. The white body with black freckled spots on their exoskeleton often gets confused with Porcellio laevis Dairy Cow species. Due to adaptability to various environmental conditions, these species are widely available.  Moo Cow Isopods: A Glimpse ●      Scientific Name: Porcellio Scaber "Moo Cow" ●      Common name: Common Rough Woodlouse ●      Origin: Europe ●      Size: 1.8 cm ●      Temperature: 17℃- 26℃ ●      Rarity: Low ●      Humidity: 50% to 60% ●      Primary Diet: Rotten leaves, rotten hardwood, vegetable scrap ●      Supplements required: Calcium supplement or cuttlebone. Moo Cow Isopods: A Glimpse Moo Cow isopods are hardy and can tolerate extreme drought conditions. These creatures have much bolder white and black patches on their skin. These species, though they're similar to Porcellio laevis "Dairy Cow," these critters are more active and scurry around quickly. These species are native to Western and Central Europe, and they are now available worldwide due to their popularity. These species are conscious of the environment around their activity depending on the surroundings. Moo Cow Isopods: Characteristic Features and Traits ●      These species have an oval body with a hard white carapace with black patches. ●      Has a granular texture to their exoskeleton and compound eyes. ●      Has two large antennas along with a small inner pair that is used to sense their surroundings. ●      They are one of the morphs of Porcellio Scaber isopods. ●      The calcium-to-protein ratio is 12:1, which is high compared to other insects. ●      These species are active and quick breeders. They multiply quickly; therefore, you need a larger enclosure. ●      These species are tolerant to drought, but it is ideal to keep a third of the enclosure dry and the rest of the enclosure mildly wet. ●      Females can produce around 45 to 90 fertilized eggs and are kept in a fluid-filled sac for around 40-50 days. ●      These isopods can reproduce after three months of their birth and have a life expectancy of 2 years. ●      To protect their exoskeleton from extreme dryness, also known as desiccation, they seek moisture in their environment. ●      Detritivores in nature seek nutrition from decaying plants, fungi, and bacteria that aid the decaying process. ●      These species move quickly and slowly depending on the environment, i.e., they tend to move faster in dry environments and slower in humid areas. Moo Cow Isopods: Dietary Requirements These species primarily get nutrition by consuming detritus, i.e., dead, and rotting matter. These species in the wild feed on rotting organic matter, fungus, and bacteria that consume rotten leaves and other matter. In an enclosure, provide a mix of food like veggies, greens, etc. You can also include molting of invertebrates or reptiles, as well as fish and meat scraps for protein. Calcium is crucial for a stronger and healthier carapace; therefore, you can provide eggshells, limestone pieces, and cuttlebone. If not, adding calcium powder can be great as a substitute for the isopods. These species are voracious eaters, but it is important to provide only the necessary amount of food in the enclosure. To prevent fruit flies, molds, and gnats, providing food that they can consume in a single session is ideal. Porcellio Scaber Isopods: Morphs The Porcellio Scaber "Moo Cow" is one of the many morphs that are commonly available worldwide. Other morphs of these species include: ●      Porcellio Scaber "Orange": They have a distinguished orange color on their exoskeleton. ●      Porcellio "Lava" Isopod: These are cool-looking morphs that have orangish red blotches on the black exoskeleton. ●      Porcellio Scaber "Calico": Bright orange, yellow coloring with smaller, barely visible black freckles. ●      Porcellio Ghost Isopods: Deep lilac to light purple colored species. ●      Porcellio Scaber "Dalmatian": Similar to moo cow isopods, except its spots are smaller and less visible. ●      Orange Koi Isopod: Their bright white and orange color combination resembles the fish of a similar name. ●      Piebald Variant: A recessive gene that has a black and white color combination on its exoskeleton. Moo Cow Isopods: Basic Care ●      When providing an enclosure, make sure to set up a box which is larger than a typical shoebox sized enclosure. These species breed quickly once established and so it is ideal to provide a bigger enclosure. ●      If you like to show off your isopod collection with other enthusiasts, providing a glass enclosure with suitable ventilation will provide more visibility. You can admire their natural activities using such transparent enclosures. If not, a normal plastic container will work just fine. ●      These species love both tropical and temperate climate, therefore make sure to mimic that habitat into an artificial enclosure. ●      They prefer a well-ventilated enclosure and don't require a humid enclosure like other isopods. ●      If you are providing a self-made enclosure it is to ensure that you are making provision for cross ventilation by making enough holes in the enclosure. ●      For these clean up critters, provide substrate mix in the enclosure that has rotten leaves in the mix or provide a custom mix of coco peat, leaf litter, small amount of soil and moss to retain moisture. ●      Make sure to provide the substrate bedding for around 1-3 inches within the enclosure. ●      It has to be ensured that the substrate they keep inside the container should be damped up to about one third of the total portion. ●      While carrying out misting, the damp area and the wet area should be maintained separately. The areas should not be exchanged. ●      Moss is to be kept only in the damp areas to maintain the moisture content. These mosses are also a type of food for them thus serving dual purpose. ●      The enclosure should be periodically inspected and must ensure that the leaflets and other food items are present inside the container. ●      If the moisture content is higher, there can be increased mold growth, which is not good for your pets. To avoid this, you can add springtails, which prey on the mold and will help you to keep the area clean. ●      It is important to keep hiding areas inside the enclosure. Towards this you can coconut shell or bark of wood which will act as the perfect hiding space for them. You can also keep crates of eggs which also are equally good hide out areas for your pets.

Armadillidium Granulatum isopods, or Spanish Yellow isopods, are one of the most unique species in nature. These species have dark grey carapaces with vibrant yellow spots, which makes them stand out among other isopods. These species acclimate to artificial environments easily and are most sought after among enthusiasts.    Armadillidium Granulatum Isopods: Insight Common Name: Spanish Yellow Isopod Origin: Spain Size: 2.5 cm Difficulty level: low Temperature: 64℉ to 82℉ Rarity: Low Humidity: 75% to 80% Favourite Food: Repashy bug burger, leaf litter Supplements: Cuttlefish bone   Armadillidium Granulatum Isopods: Introduction Armadillidium Granulatum isopods are one of the largest isopods. They settle into new environments easily and are easy to breed. The yellow spots on the exoskeleton are unique, and they are different for each isopod.    These critters are indigenous to Spain and can be found in, among others, wet environments like fallen leaves, rocks, carks, etc. They are hardy and quite easy to take care of in captivity and are a great addition to terrariums.   Armadillidium Granulatum Isopods: Characteristics and Traits They have a textured carapace; therefore, they are also known as Granulated Pill isopods. These roly-polies have soft shells and are used as clean-up crews. Their spots are unique in each isopod. They are semi-aquatic creatures and can be grown in terrariums and paludariums.   They have humps behind their body called "uropods". They help in movement, especially when they feel threatened. It is highly prolific in nature and breeds very early.  Easy to maintain and are child-friendly. They are omnivores, docile and easy to care for. They are from the southwestern part of Europe and are commonly found in gardens, forests, grasslands and urban areas.    Armadillidium Granulatum Isopods: Morphs The Armadillidium Granulatum is commonly seen in dark colour with bright yellow spots. However, there are various morphs for this species. They are the following: Armadillidium Granulatum (lemon): has a higher yellow expression than the dark colour with a brown background. Armadillidium Granulatum (white pearl): rare albino morph of the regular Armadillidum Granulatum.    Armadillidium Granulatum Isopods: Diet Armadillidum Granulatum feeds on pretty much all types of food. They are scavengers and feed on detritus, like decaying plants, fungi, roots, and algae. They also feed on dead insects and other invertebrates.    When breeding in a closed enclosure, it is important to provide a balanced diet. Feeding greens, veggies, and fruits helps to maintain its health. Shredded shrimp and oyster shells are provided for calcium and protein. Repashy bug burger is given as an alternative to traditional food, which helps balance all nutrients.     Armadillidium Granulatum Isopods: Offspring Armadillidium Granulatum is highly prolific and produces offspring before reaching adulthood.  It is expected to find small broods along with these isopods who are sub-adults. They produce a large number of litters. The mating of these species is simple. After the mating ritual, the male will deposit spermatozoa into the female's pouch. The female stores them till they are ready to produce offspring. Once the development is complete, the female deposits them in pouches. This later produced up to 40 youngs per brood.  These species can reproduce without their mate. The females that produce offspring without mating will be born as clones.   Armadillidium Granulatum Isopods: Basic Care Here are the following tips and instructions to provide basic care for Armadillidium Granulatum isopods.  For the isopods, provide a closed terrarium with a moist substrate made of coco peat or peat moss. Mist twice a day, and it is essential to maintain humidity around 75% to 80%. Keep live plants and organic materials in the enclosure. Keep ⅓ of the enclosure moist and leave the rest arid.  Use a glass or a plastic container for breeding the isopods. Provide holes for ventilation to prevent excess humidity. Avoid keeping the isopod box under direct sunlight. Add springtails to prevent and mitigate moulds. Cork bark, lotus pods, coconut halves and egg cartons to create hiding spots for the isopods. Provide calcium and protein-rich food for healthy offspring and moulting. Add various types of moss to serve both as a snack as well as a hiding place for the isopods.   Armadillidium Granulatum Isopods: Natural Habitat The natural environment of the Armadillidium Granulatum is typically cold, with a lot of decayed food and hiding areas. These species are nocturnal, and they hide under the soil during the daytime. In the wild, these species form clusters under rocks and wooden barks. This is done to retain their body moisture and to ward off predators.    It is necessary to understand the natural environment of Armadillidium Granulatum isopods so that it can be replicated in the artificial habitat setting.    Armadillidium Granulatum Isopods: Artificial Setting The method of setting up an artificial setup for the isopods should be done in a plastic shoebox tub. Providing a lid for the tubs adds safety to the enclosure. Making a series of holes on the sides of the container will help attain healthy flow and control the humidity inside the enclosure.    Providing a substrate of 1-3 inches (4 in for burrowing species) will provide a proper foundation or base for the habitat. Isopods prefer deep layers and like to feel safe. Add sphagnum Moss and lots and lots of leaf litter, along with pieces of wood or cork bark, to help provide them with a better environment.    It is important to maintain a temperature of around 75℉ and a moisture gradient of around 75% to create an optimal environment for the isopods to live in the artificial setting.    Armadillidium Granulatum Isopods: Substrate Mixture Making a high quality substrate mixture is crucial. As the Armadillidium Granulatum isopods are humidity-loving creatures, one must offer a suitable substrate mix.   The ABG substrate mix is a combination of charcoal, orchid bark, sphagnum moss, tree fern fibre and peat moss. They are very much suited for tropical terrariums as well as isopod substrate mix. It helps maintain moisture without trapping water for proper drainage, thus creating an ideal environment for isopod and springtail colonies.   Making a thick base creates a stable foundation for the isopod enclosure. This, along with adding wood bark, leaf fodder, and protein supplements, creates a suitable environment for the isopods to thrive.

Everything you like about normal gestoris but over 20% bigger - meet the Jumbo Gestroi Isopods originate from the tropical region of France. These are very similar to the normal gestrois however the JUMBO type are said to be around 20% larger however I personally would say they are larger than that. The neon yellow on them is brighter in appearance compared to the normal gestrois. High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: France Scientific Name: Armadillidium gestroi Difficulty Level: Easy Size: Up to 1.8 Centimeters Rarity: Low/ Medium Temperature: 68℉ to77℉ Humidity: 70% to 80% Favourite Foods: Fish Carcasses, Shrimp   Jumbo Gestroi Isopods: An Overview High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods are not very commonly found in comparison to other popular isotopes from the same origin. These European natives are renownedfor theirvibrant high yellow exoskeletons that exude a radiant glow. They have a distinctive yellow and cream color, scattered patches, and markings. They are suitable for novice keepers. Being native to regions in the Mediterranean and Southern Europe, High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods have an enclosure with high-humidity. They have a veryimpressive appearance.They make good pets because of their ease of care. You can use plastic and glass enclosures to house them. Feeding Jumbo Gestroi Isopods is very convenient. These isopods can eat mostly anything from decaying plant and animal matter to vegetables and fungi. You will need to ensure a humid atmosphere to conveniently house them. Minimize exposure to severe weather conditions whenever possible. High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods: Basic Care You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to the High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods. You can use either a glass vivarium or plastic containers for housing for your Jumbo Gestroi Isopods. Maintain the container’s temperature within 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit. It is essential to ensure high humidity inside the enclosure. You can minimize ventilation holes to prevent excessive humidity loss. Don’t keep the enclosure in direct light. Position moss on an enclosure partly. Ensure the moss has enough moisture at all times. Make use of decaying plant and animal matter as food for isopods. You could even feed them with vegetables, fungi, decaying food, worms, dead insects, leaf litter, lichens, and algae where this is available.   High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods: Feeding High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods are detritivores. They mostly consume decaying plant and animal matter only. They also feed on a variety of food items such as leaf litter, algae, etc.  They tend to be voracious eaters. Since they are ahighly active group, it's essential to provide them with adequate and nutritious supplements to ensure their optimal health.These isotope pet owners can use calcium, protein, vitamin E, and vitamin D supplements, etc. One common mistake made by High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopod owners is overfeeding. This can be problematic due to the high humidity levels typically present within the enclosure. In high humidity conditions, any leftover food can rapidly deteriorate. This can encourage mold growth. It can disrupt the balance within the enclosure. It can potentially result in various issues. Therefore, it's recommended to provide only an amount of food that Jumbo Gestroi Isopods can consume in one feeding session. High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods crave fallen leaves, moss, dead wood, and lynches. They are always looking for food rich in calcium. This is why they often prefer eating different kinds of stones, dead insects, and more. However, you can always feed them with decaying plant matter. High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour High Yellow Spotted Giant isopod is one relatively small isopod. It can grow to nearly 1.5 centimeters in length.   The isopod species’ name is inspired by its yellow color, scattered markings, and ability to curl into a ball.   These isopods have unique yellow and cream color. They have many markings and scattered patches along their lengths.   As these isopods exude a radiant glow, they make aesthetically appealing pets.   As they reach maturity, their color gradually darkens and becomes more like a brown hue.   Since they don't grow very large in size like the giant worms, these Isopods are well-suited for small pets.   These isotopesmake essential members of the bioactive food chain of a terrarium. They help in decomposition and disease control.   They are very easy to maintain and handle. They make attractive pets for children of young ages.   Jumbo Gestroi Isopods: Habitat High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods thrive in high humidity. This is why it is ideal to create a humid environment for them, minimizing any moisture loss whenever possible. Utilize a plastic container to store the Jumbo Gestroi Isopods or add them to an enclosure with live terrarium plants. Once these isopod familiarize with the conditions, then you can transfer it to a suitable enclosure. However, it is essential to keep the total of ventilation holes to a minimum. Excessive ventilation holes can lower the internal humidity, potentially causing unprecedented problems for the spotted giant isopods. Elevated humidity in the closure can attract pests. Add springtails inside the enclosure. This will prevent pests from entering the enclosure. Springtails are also effective in managing mold.  Jumbo Gestroi Isopods: Substrate Mix Selecting the appropriate substrate mix is important for maintaining an ideal habitat for High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods. Since they grow in high humidity conditions, the mix should be advantageous for maintaining such an environment. An optimal mix with excellent water retention properties is essential for preserving high humidity levels within a High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods enclosure. Given their detritivores nature, adding lichens and leaf litter into the substrate mix can be beneficial for them. High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods also enjoy living inside hiding spots as much as possible. Experts highly recommend that you add a thick leaf litter and lichens layer at the top of the mix. You can add things likecoconut coir, charcoal, calcium supplements, etc., in the mix to create a suitable environment for them

Giant Orange Isopods (Porcellio laevis), also known as Giant Orange Woodlice, are a more widespread species and are used as custodians in terrariums. It's flamboyant colour and unique features stand out from its marshy environment. Like other Porcellio laevis, these isopods too have large appetites, but the striking orange with a white hue makes them more of a showpiece in people's bioactive enclosure.    Overview Place of Origin: Europe Scientific Name: Porcellio laevis Maintenance effort: Low Ideal Temperature Range: 60°F - 90°F Lifespan: 2 years General Size: 1.8 cm – 2.3 cm Rareness: Low Humidity Range: 55% to 75% Preferred Diet: Fresh vegetables, greens, decaying organic matter Supplements in Addition: Oyster seashells, limestone   Abstract These isopods were discovered first in Europe, but it is argued among intellectuals that laevis originated from North Africa. Due to its popularity, now they are found worldwide. They have a smooth exoskeleton and have a flat body. They are highly active during the daytime. These critters feed on dead and decaying organic matter and plants and, in return, add nutrients to the terrarium. This helps for healthy plant growth.    By consuming the rotten wood and vegetation, they contribute significantly to the ecosystem's balance.    Giant Orange Isopods: Physical Traits and Characteristics Has a distinct orange carapace with a smooth, flat surface.  It has a round body shape that distinguishes it from other elongated isopod species.  They are known to be larger and more aggressive species. They intimidate other isopods using their big bodies.  They grow up to 2cm till adulthood. These creatures require less maintenance.  They are diurnal, i.e., they are active during the day. Their reproduction age starts early before reaching adulthood. They are prolific in nature and breed quickly once established in the terrarium.  They have calcium-rich exoskeleton and are excellent sources of food for amphibians and reptiles.  They prefer damp and humid habitats with lots of ventilation. They are perfect as entry-level isopods.    Giant Orange Isopods: Nourishment Almost every kind of food is consumed by these isopods. Their appetite is true without boundaries, and they consume organic debris, making them essentially scavengers. Providing a balanced diet is essential when a creature is taken care of in a box.  Wood, rotting leaves, greens, mushrooms, and even molting of other invertebrates or reptiles can be added to them. Include vegetables in their diet, like sweet potatoes, carrots, zucchini, etc. Add modest amounts of freshly sliced veggies and adjust as necessary to monitor their food intake.    These species require more calcium and protein compared to other isopod species due to their calcareous exoskeleton. Dried shrimp, fish meals, and oyster shells are excellent sources of calcium and protein for the growth and development of these critters. Another alternative is calcium powder or powdered limestone.    Due to their active nature, it is important to provide calcium and protein-rich food twice a week. Make sure to feed them plenty, as the adult isopods tend to push away juvenile species. Be sure to get rid of the excess food to prevent mold, fruit flies, and other pests.    Giant Orange Isopods: Breeding Males are typically more slender than females. When reaching adulthood, females will have a white cavity in between their legs. Males do not have a cavity.  Mature males often have enlarged reproductive organs, which helps them mate.  Male isopods engage in courtship, and once they succeed, they transfer sperm packets to the female genitalia opening.  After mating, females carry fertilized eggs in a specialized pouch on their abdominal.  Eggs undergo embryonic development in the pouch.  Once isopods are fully developed, offspring are born, and they start exploring their environment. Giant Orange Isopods: Natural Environment Due to their extreme adaptability, giant orange isopods may survive in a variety of environments. Recreating their natural habitat as closely as possible for their health and well-being is essential.  Humidity Levels: These species do well in conditions with high humidity because they love the dampness. They are typically found in moist, shady places like caverns, forest floors, and decaying logs. For their survival and procreation, the moisture content must be maintained.   Substrate: The Giant Orange Isopods prefer substrate with high organic content. Elements such as moss, pieces of rotting white wood, and decaying leaves replicate the environment well.  Temperature: These species are tolerant to extreme drought and various temperatures. But they prefer moderate temperatures around 21°C to 29°C for optimum health.    Giant Orange Isopods: Artificial Enclosure Setting For an artificial setup of isopods, it is recommended to use a plastic shoebox tub with lids. It is important to keep them in a small box first. Transfer them into a bigger container once they start producing offspring and increasing numbers. Like all isopods, the Giant Orange Isopods require moisture for hydration. It is crucial to provide moisture within the bioactive setup by spraying one side of the enclosure with water and leaving the rest dry. Adding moss helps to retain the water and provides a snack for these creatures.    It is necessary to provide small holes around the container walls above the substrate for ventilation and to regulate the enclosure's humidity. Make sure to provide holes above the substrate and away from their reach so that these critters don't escape. Springtails feed on mold, which is formed due to excess moisture. Therefore, it is best to pair them with the Giant Orange Isopods. Together, they will keep the bioactive clean and help the isopods to thrive well in the artificial setting.    Giant Orange Isopods: Substrate Giant Orange Isopods require a suitable substrate to thrive in captivity. Therefore, it is recommended to provide a substrate mix made of coconut coir and peat moss or a substrate mix available online. While buying a substrate mix, ensure a quality mix with good water retention capabilities. The substrate mixture must be moist and covered with a layer of leaf litter. This helps to mimic their natural habitat for the isopods to exhibit natural behaviors. These species like to dig; therefore, the substrate bedding should be 3-4 inches deep.    For humidity, mist one side of the substrate to maintain the gradient. This helps the isopods to migrate from wet to dry when necessary. Add cork bark, coconut shells, and egg cartons to provide hides into the enclosure. They act as an excellent hiding and climbing space for the isopods. Adding multiple hides offers ample room for juveniles and adults and provides an enriching environment. Also, add various types of moss to provide a hiding space and as a snack.    Ensuring the above elements will provide a suitable environment for the isopods in the enclosure.