Bug Pets

Daniel Brown on 02/19/2026

Live invertebrates kept as companion animals have quietly become one of the UK’s fastest-growing pet trends. If you’ve been curious about keeping beetles, mantids, or millipedes at home, this guide covers everything you need to know—from choosing the right species to understanding basic care requirements and legal considerations.

What Are Bug Pets?

Bug pets are live invertebrates—including insects, arachnids, myriapods, and other small creatures—kept as companion animals in controlled home environments. Think stick insects perched on bramble, iridescent beetles burrowing through substrate, or isopods scuttling across leaf litter. These are not digital toys, plastic figures, or branded game apps. They’re real, living animals that require specific care.

The category includes a surprisingly diverse selection of species:

Insects (beetles, mantids, stick insects, cockroaches)
Arachnids (tarantulas, scorpions)
Myriapods (millipedes, centipedes)
Crustaceans (isopods, commonly called woodlice or “pill bugs”)

Since around 2018, bug pets have surged in popularity across the UK, US, and Europe. Social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube unboxing videos, and classroom science projects have introduced millions of people to the hobby. The UK’s exotic pet community now includes thousands of active keepers who share their setups, breeding successes, and care tips online.

What sets bug pets apart from traditional animals? They require far less space—many species thrive in enclosures the size of a shoebox. Costs stay low, with some species available for under £10. However, they demand precise environmental control: specific humidity levels, temperature gradients, and appropriate substrates. Lifespans vary dramatically too, from a few months for adult beetles to several years for tarantulas.

A child is safely observing a beetle inside a clear, ventilated plastic container placed on a desk, showcasing their interest in pet invertebrates. The scene captures the child's curiosity while ensuring the beetle's well-being in a suitable environment.

Definition: Bug pets are captive-bred or ethically sourced live invertebrates kept in controlled enclosures as companion animals, distinct from wild insects and from toy products using similar names.

Are Bug Pets Right for You?

Before you order your first livestock, it helps to honestly assess whether bug pets suit your lifestyle. This quick evaluation will save you time and ensure your future pets receive proper care.

Key suitability factors to consider:

Available space: Most species need only shelf-sized terrariums (10–30 litres), but you’ll need room for heating equipment and substrate storage
Environmental maintenance: Can you commit to daily misting, temperature monitoring, and weekly enclosure checks?
Live feeders: Some species require live crickets, roaches, or fruit flies—are you comfortable handling these?
Handling expectations: Many bug pets are observation-only; direct handling can stress or harm them

Who bug pets suit best:

Families with children: Educational value is immense, but adult supervision remains essential for feeding and maintenance
Adult hobbyists: Breeding projects and species-keeping offer deep engagement for those who enjoy detailed animal husbandry
Classrooms and science clubs: Stick insects and beetles align perfectly with biology curriculum on life cycles and ecology

Pros:

Quiet—no barking, squawking, or nocturnal wheel-running
Minimal smell when enclosures are properly maintained
Fascinating natural behaviours to observe
Low daily time commitment (typically 5–10 minutes)
You can shop equipment without breaking the bank

Cons:

Some species are fragile with short adult lifespans (mantids live 1–2 years maximum)
Carnivorous species need live prey, which requires separate feeder colonies or regular purchases
Most cannot be handled safely or enjoyably
Cold weather shipping requires careful timing and insulated packaging

Quick Checklist: Is This Hobby For You?

[ ] I have stable shelf or desk space away from direct sunlight
[ ] I can maintain consistent room temperatures or invest in heating
[ ] I’m comfortable with live insects (as pets or feeders)
[ ] I understand these are observation pets, not cuddly companions
[ ] I’m willing to research species-specific needs before purchasing

Popular Types of Bug Pets

Choosing your first species matters enormously. This section outlines beginner-friendly options commonly sold by reputable UK and EU breeders, giving you a solid starting point for research.

Beetles

Beetles offer some of the most visually striking bug pets available. The Rainbow Stag Beetle (Phalacrognathus muelleri) displays iridescent green and red colouration, reaching 4–7 cm in length. The Dorcus titanus can exceed 8 cm with impressive mandibles. Even the UK-native Stag Beetle (Lucanus cervus) captivates keepers with its antler-like jaws.

Beetle keeping has a unique rhythm: larvae spend 1–3 years developing in decaying wood substrate before pupating into adults that may live only a few months. The extended larval stage appeals to people who enjoy long-term projects.

Mantids

Praying mantids are ambush predators with extraordinary visual appeal. The Orchid Mantis (Hymenopus coronatus) mimics flower petals in pink and white, while the Ghost Mantis (Phyllocrania paradoxa) resembles dried leaves. Adults typically reach 5–8 cm depending on species.

Mantids require live prey—fruit flies for nymphs, graduating to crickets and locusts for adults. They’re not beginner-friendly in the sense of being hands-off; feeding schedules and humidity must stay consistent. However, their hunting behaviour makes them endlessly watchable.

Stick and Leaf Insects

For supervised children and absolute beginners, stick insects are often the ideal first choice. The Indian Stick Insect (Carausius morosus) reproduces parthenogenetically (females lay fertile eggs without males), making colonies easy to maintain. The Giant Prickly Stick Insect (Extatosoma tiaratum) grows to 15 cm and tolerates gentle handling.

These herbivores eat bramble, ivy, and oak leaves—food sources you can forage for free in most UK gardens. Their gentle nature and simple care requirements make them great classroom animals.

Isopods

Isopods have exploded in popularity as both pets and “clean-up crew” for bioactive terrariums, reflecting the wider rise in popularity of isopods among invertebrate keepers. Species like “Rubber Ducky” isopods, various Armadillidium species, and colourful Porcellio scaber morphs breed readily in captivity. .

At 1–3 cm, they’re small but come in extraordinary colour variations: orange, purple, spotted, and striped, with many colourful and attractive isopod species to keep as a pet now widely available in the hobby. They eat decaying organic matter, making maintenance straightforward—just provide leaf litter, calcium (cuttlebone), and consistent humidity. .

Advanced Options

Tarantulas and scorpions represent the hobby’s advanced tier. While species like the Chilean Rose Tarantula (Grammostola rosea) are considered docile and beginner-appropriate by some, others carry medical significance. Some US states and parts of Australia restrict their keeping by law. Research thoroughly before considering these species.

A vibrant orchid mantis, with its striking colors, is delicately perched on a lush green leaf inside a terrarium, showcasing the beauty of pet invertebrates. This species adds a unique touch to any collection, perfect for enthusiasts looking to order from the UK's online invertebrate superstore.

Basic Care Requirements for Bug Pets

This section provides a high-level practical overview. Detailed care varies significantly by species—always verify requirements before you add any animal to your account.

Enclosure Basics

Use secure, well-ventilated plastic or glass containers
Size guidance: minimum 3× body length in both width and height for most insects
Mesh or ventilated lids prevent escapes while maintaining airflow
Vertical space matters for climbing species (mantids, stick insects)
Horizontal space suits ground-dwellers (beetles, isopods), especially if you plan on keeping isopods with live plants in a bioactive terrarium. )

Substrate Types

Coco fibre: Retains humidity well, suits tropical species
Leaf litter: Decayed oak or beech leaves provide food and hiding spots for detritivores
Rotten wood: Essential for beetle larvae development
Paper towel: Budget option for temporary housing or quarantine
Soil mixes: Combination substrates work well for isopods and millipedes, and are a core part of setups for the best isopods for the planted terrarium.

Temperature and Humidity

Tropical beetles: 22–26°C, humidity 60–80%
Temperate species: 15–20°C, lower humidity acceptable
Most mantids: 22–28°C depending on species origin
Isopods: Room temperature (18–24°C), humidity 70–80% in moist zones

Invest in a digital thermometer-hygrometer—they’re inexpensive and prevent 90% of humidity-related problems.

Feeding Requirements

Herbivores (stick insects): Fresh bramble, oak, ivy; replace every 2–3 days
Detritivores (beetles, isopods): Leaf litter, decaying wood, vegetables; add cuttlebone for calcium—this diet underpins many of the benefits of keeping isopods as natural clean-up crews in small enclosures.
Carnivores (mantids): Live prey sized appropriately—fruit flies for nymphs, crickets/locusts for adults

Routine Maintenance

Mist enclosures daily or every other day depending on species needs
Remove uneaten food within 24–48 hours to prevent mould
Spot-clean waste weekly
Check ventilation points and lids for security
Monitor for mites or mould, which indicate excess moisture; in established bioactive setups, you may also keep an eye on your clean-up crew and learn whether isopods will overpopulate a terrarium or vivarium.

When you order livestock from a reputable online invertebrate superstore, animals are typically shipped with care instructions specific to the species. Many suppliers offer a 7 day live guarantee and ships within 3 days of ordering, excluding pre order items bank holidays and price matched products.

Safety, Ethics, and Legal Considerations

Bug pets are living animals deserving humane treatment. Whether purchased in a shop or shipped to your door, they require responsible ownership throughout their lives.

Safety First

Beginners and families with children should avoid venomous or medically significant species
Old World tarantulas and certain scorpions can deliver painful, potentially dangerous stings or bites
Stick with established beginner species until you’ve gained experience

Allergy and Hygiene Risks

Some people react to proteins in feeder insects (crickets, mealworms)
Frass (insect waste) can trigger sensitivities in enclosed spaces
Always wash hands thoroughly after handling enclosures or feeders
Work in well-ventilated areas when maintaining colonies

Legal Requirements

UK keepers must not release non-native species into the wild under Invasive Alien Species regulations
Some species require CITES documentation for import/export
Approximately 15% of hobbyists face complications when importing restricted species—check before purchasing
US regulations vary by state; some ban certain scorpions and tarantulas entirely

Ethical Sourcing

Purchase captive-bred species wherever possible
Reputable sellers clearly list the origin of their stock
Avoid wild-caught specimens from threatened habitats
Look for suppliers offering a refund window for health issues—a 7 day refund window for health demonstrates seller confidence in their animals

Responsible Rehoming

Never release unused feeder insects outside—they can become invasive
If you can no longer care for a colony, contact local keepers or breeders for rehoming
Some species (particularly isopods) can be sold or traded within hobbyist communities

Important: The window for health issues after delivery is typically 7 days. Document any problems immediately with photos and contact your supplier within this timeframe.

Educational and Enjoyment Benefits of Bug Pets

Beyond their visual appeal, bug pets connect people to nature, ecology, and the fascinating mechanics of life cycles in ways few other hobbies can match.

Understanding Metamorphosis

Observing the complete transformation from egg to larva to pupa to adult—as seen in stag beetles and rhinoceros beetles—brings textbook biology to life. Children and adults alike gain intuitive understanding of developmental stages that static images simply cannot convey.

Classroom Applications

Many UK primary schools and science clubs use stick insects and beetles as classroom pets, and some also introduce isopods after learning what isopods you can buy for a terrarium or classroom vivarium. These animals align with Key Stage biology objectives around life cycles, habitats, and classification. A 2022 case study from the Entomological Society of America found that 85% of students reported increased interest in STEM subjects after maintaining Madagascar hissing cockroach colonies over 18 months. .

Mental Well-being

The slow, deliberate movements of stick insects or the patient hunting behaviour of mantids encourage focused observation. Many keepers find this calming—a form of mindful engagement that contrasts sharply with screen-based entertainment. Maintaining detailed logs of moults, breeding events, and feeding schedules creates structured routines that suit people seeking grounding activities.

Turning the Hobby into Research

Simple tools transform casual keeping into meaningful projects:

Notebooks or apps to record moult dates, egg-laying, and emergence
Temperature and humidity logs to correlate with breeding success
Photography to document growth stages and colour variations

Connecting with Other Keepers

Follow accounts on Instagram or join specialist forums to share observations and learn responsible practices. The community welcomes newcomers enthusiastically, and experienced keepers freely share advice on everything from substrate recipes to identifying species from photos, as well as recommending top isopod species for your collection as you expand your setups. .

A hand is holding an open notebook filled with handwritten observations, positioned next to a small terrarium housing isopods, which are popular pet invertebrates. The scene captures the essence of caring for livestock, showcasing the attention to detail that comes with observing these unique species.

Bug pets offer a genuinely rewarding hobby for people willing to research species-specific needs and commit to consistent care. They’re quiet, affordable, and endlessly fascinating to observe. Whether you’re drawn to the iridescent shimmer of a Rainbow Stag Beetle or the alien elegance of a Ghost Mantis, there’s a species to suit almost any interest level.

Start small. Choose a beginner-friendly species, source from ethical suppliers, and stay curious. The more time you invest in understanding these remarkable animals, the more they’ll reward your attention. And who knows—what begins as a single stick insect might evolve into a multi-species collection that keeps you learning for years to come.

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PostPods Red Pak Chong Isopods (Cubaris sp.) £65.00

Red Pak Chong Isopods (Cubaris sp.) Red Pak Chong isopods are one of the most beautiful and sought after colour morphs in the isopod community. These little crustaceans have a deep red body with grey, orange and rusty accents, they are a real gem for any bioactive enclosure. Named after the Pak Chong district in Thailand where they originate, these isopods are a selectively bred colour mutation that has become highly prized among enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Info Origin: Thailand - Pak Chong District Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. 'Red Pak Chong' Care level: Medium Temp range: 75℉ - 80℉ (24℃ - 27℃) Size: ~ 1.5 cm Rarity: Super Rare Humidity: 70% - 80% (medium-high) Diet: Leaf litter, vegetables, fish food, decaying wood Supplements: Cuttlebone, dried shrimp, calcium powder Red Pak Chong Isopods These isopods come from the limestone caves and karst formations of the Pak Chong district in Thailand, where they have adapted to live in humid, tropical conditions. Red Pak Chong isopods are a colour mutation of the classic Pak Chong lineage, with red faces and tail sections and white highlights along their sides. This selective breeding has produced one of the most beautiful isopods in the hobby today. Red Pak Chong is special because it shares the same genetic lineage as the famous Cubaris sp. "Cherry Blossom" variety. These hardy isopods are a great stepping stone for keepers who want to move from beginner species to more challenging Cubaris varieties like Rubber Duckies and other premium morphs. They have moderate care requirements and are beautiful, so perfect for intermediate keepers. Characteristics of Red Pak Chong Isopods Deep red body with grey, orange and rusty accents Red faces and tail sections with white side highlights Robust size up to 1.5 cm Hardy, can tolerate some environmental fluctuations Moderate breeding rate, 6-12 mancae every 1-2 months* Nocturnal but active during the day during feeding Great bioactive cleanup crew Can conglobate (roll into a ball) when threatened Lively and social behaviour Feeding Red Pak Chong Isopods Red Pak Chong isopods are detritivores and prefer high quality organic matter and supplements. Provide a base diet of pesticide free leaf litter, oak, beech and magnolia leaves. They love protein rich food and need protein supplements at least twice a week to support their colour and breeding. Offer small amounts of fresh vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes and leafy greens. High quality fish food, dried shrimp and isopod diets like Repashy Morning Wood are great protein sources. Calcium supplementation through cuttlebone, crushed eggshells or limestone powder is essential for proper exoskeleton development and to maintain their colours. Red Pak Chongs love freeze dried vegetables and occasional treats of decaying white wood. Remove any uneaten food within 24 hours to prevent mould and maintain optimal enclosure conditions. Natural Habitat In their native Thai habitat, Red Pak Chong isopods live in the humid limestone caves and karst formations of the Pak Chong region. These environments provide consistent high humidity, stable temperatures and plenty of food. The caves protect them from temperature extremes while maintaining the moisture levels these tropical isopods need to survive. Understanding their cave dwelling origins is key to successful captive care as these isopods have evolved to live in low light, high humidity and good air circulation environments. Artificial Habitat for Red Pak Chong Isopods Create an optimal environment with a well ventilated enclosure and deep substrate to accommodate their natural burrowing behaviour. Keep temperatures between 75-80℉ (24-27℃) and humidity 70-80%. Provide good ventilation while preserving humidity by adding ventilation holes to only half of the enclosure, creating air circulation without compromising the humid microclimate. Add plenty of hiding spots with cork bark, moss and dried leaves. Sphagnum moss is essential for humidity and should never be allowed to dry completely. Create a moisture gradient with both damp and slightly drier areas, so the isopods can self regulate their moisture needs.Red Pak Chongs love a complex environment with multiple levels and plenty of space to explore. The enclosure should have both vertical and horizontal hiding spots for their active nature. Preferred Substrate Mix for Red Pak Chong Isopods The ideal substrate is a mix of good moisture retention, drainage and nutrition. Use a base mix of organic potting soil (pesticide free), coconut coir and sphagnum moss in a 2:1:1 ratio. Add earthworm castings for nutrition and a small amount of orchid bark for structure and drainage. Keep the substrate depth at least 4 inches to accommodate their burrowing behaviour. Top with a thick layer of mixed leaf litter and pieces of decaying white wood. Add cork bark pieces and make sure there is moss coverage all over the substrate surface. Add limestone powder or crushed cuttlebone to the substrate mix for readily available calcium sources. The substrate should be consistently moist but never waterlogged, with the moisture level slightly higher than what most other isopod species require. This balanced mix supports their tropical origins and provides all the nutrients they need to maintain their red colour and healthy breeding colonies.

PostPods Isopod Mystery Box £25.00

Isopod Mystery Box: Curated Surprises for Every Hobbyist Beautiful healthy isopods delivered to your door — with the excitement of not knowing exactly which species you’ll discover until you open the box. PostPods mystery boxes contain carefully selected isopods from different species, chosen by experienced breeders to give you fantastic value while introducing you to these fascinating invertebrates. Whether you’re building your first bioactive terrarium or expanding an established collection, our mystery boxes deliver more pods for your money than buying individual species. What Makes Our Mystery Boxes Special Guaranteed fantastic value — retail worth exceeds what you spend Beautiful healthy pods from 1-8 different species per box Carefully wrapped with specialized packaging for live arrival Mix of common and interesting isopods you might not find elsewhere Fast delivery with live arrival guarantee Perfect for Every Experience Level New to isopods? Our boxes include beginner friendly pets that adapt to almost all terrains and accommodate basic care requirements. These low maintenance pets are excellent for those just starting their invertebrate journey. Experienced collector? Request more challenging species in your order note. We stock rare morphs and interesting isopods that recently gained popularity among dedicated hobbyists. What You Might Discover Isopods present worldwide with wide distribution geographically — from deserts to mountains, these small creatures have adapted to even the harshest conditions. Your mystery box could include: Dairy cow white pods with distinctive black and white patterns Colorful morphs that add visual interest to any setup Fast breeding species that establish colonies quickly Unique varieties from distinctive places around the world Size varies significantly between species — some remain relatively smaller while others can reach half a meter in specialized conditions. All our pods are generally small creatures perfect for terrarium life. How Our Mystery Boxes Work Each box contains one batch of carefully selected isopods, packed to survive the journey to your door. We accommodate special requests when possible — just leave a note about your preferences, existing collection, or intended use. Delivery takes approximately two weeks depending on your location and our current stock levels. Every shipment includes care guidance to help your tiny animals thrive in their new environment. Value That Makes Sense Mystery boxes offer a great value way to build your collection without the significant amount you’d spend buying individual species. Instead of researching each variety separately, let our breeders surprise you with a mix that represents fantastic value. Many hobbyists prefer mystery boxes because they: Discover species they wouldn’t normally choose Get more animals for less money Experience the excitement of unboxing surprises Build diverse colonies for breeding projects The PostPods Difference We understand that these are living animals, not just products. Each isopod is selected for health and vitality, ensuring you receive beautiful healthy isopods that will thrive and potentially breed in your care. Our breeders have spent ages perfecting packaging methods that accommodate the needs of different species during transport. From moisture control to temperature management, every detail helps your pods arrive ready to explore their new habitat. Ready to Start Your Collection? Whether you’re setting up your first terrarium or adding to an established collection, PostPods mystery boxes deliver the excitement of discovery with the confidence of quality. These fantastic invertebrates will interact with their environment, help process organic matter, and potentially provide you with breeding stock for future projects. Browse our mystery box selection and experience the surprise of not knowing which beautiful species will arrive at your door.

PostPods Crabby Isopods (Cubaris sp.) £105.00

Crabby Isopods (Cubaris sp.): The Captivating Cave Dwellers Crabby Isopods are an extraordinary species of Cubaris that have captured the hearts of isopod enthusiasts worldwide. Originating from the mysterious limestone caves of Thailand, these remarkable crustaceans bring a unique charm to any terrarium or bioactive setup. Their distinctive appearance and fascinating behaviour make them a prized addition to any serious collector's menagerie. Species Overview Place of Origin: Thailand Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Arthropoda Subphylum: Crustacea Order: Isopoda Family: Armadillidiidae Genus: Cubaris Species: Cubaris sp. "Crabby" Key Care Requirements Maintenance Effort: Medium Ideal Temperature Range: 72°F-80°F (22°C-27°C) Reproduction Rate: Slow to Moderate Ventilation: High General Size: 15-18mm Rarity Level: Rare Humidity Range: 70%-80% Preferred Diet: Leaf litter, vegetables, protein supplements Essential Supplements: Limestone, cuttlefish bone, calcium powder Natural Habitat and Behaviour In their native Thailand, Crabby Isopods inhabit the cool, humid environment of limestone caves and karst formations. These underground sanctuaries provide the perfect combination of high humidity, stable temperatures, and abundant calcium sources that these remarkable creatures require to thrive. Like most Cubaris species, Crabby Isopods are naturally shy and secretive creatures. They spend much of their time burrowing through substrate layers and hiding beneath cork bark, emerging primarily during nighttime hours to forage for food. This fossorial behaviour makes them excellent candidates for bioactive vivarium setups where they can fulfil their natural role as ecosystem engineers. Physical Characteristics These medium-sized isopods display the characteristic charm that has made Cubaris species so popular among collectors. Their robust exoskeleton provides protection whilst their distinctive colouration helps them blend seamlessly into their cave environment. Like other members of the Armadillidiidae family, they possess the ability to roll into a protective ball when threatened, earning them the classification as true "pill bugs". Adult Crabby Isopods typically reach 15-18mm in length, making them substantial enough to observe their fascinating behaviours whilst remaining manageable in captive environments. Their segmented bodies and prominent antennae give them an endearing appearance that has captivated hobbyists worldwide. Diet and Nutrition As natural detritivores, Crabby Isopods play a crucial ecological role in breaking down organic matter. In captivity, their diet should consist primarily of aged leaf litter and decaying hardwood, which form the foundation of their nutritional needs. Understanding their feeding habits is essential for maintaining a healthy colony. Supplement their natural diet with small portions of organic vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and squash. High-quality protein sources like fish flakes, dried shrimp, or specialised isopod pellets should be offered 2-3 times per week to support healthy moulting and reproduction. Calcium supplementation is absolutely critical for Crabby Isopods. Provide limestone chunks, powdered calcium, cuttlefish bone, or crushed eggshells to replicate the calcium-rich environment of their natural limestone caves. This mineral supplementation supports proper exoskeleton development and successful moulting cycles. Creating the Perfect Enclosure Successfully keeping Crabby Isopods requires replicating their natural cave environment. Start with a well-ventilated plastic container of at least 6-quart capacity for a starter culture. Proper ventilation is essential - create multiple airflow holes covered with fine mesh to maintain air circulation whilst preventing escapes. The substrate should be at least 6 inches deep to accommodate their burrowing behaviour. Use a moisture-retentive mix combining organic compost, leaf mould, and decomposed hardwood. Add a layer of sphagnum moss in one section to create humidity gradients and hiding opportunities. Furnish the enclosure with cork bark pieces, limestone chunks, and abundant leaf litter. These elements serve multiple purposes: providing hiding spots, creating microclimates, offering food sources, and supplying essential calcium. The setup should mimic the layered environment of their natural cave habitat. Temperature and Humidity Management Maintain temperatures between 72-80°F (22-27°C) to keep your Crabby Isopods active and healthy. Avoid dramatic temperature fluctuations, as these can stress the colony and impact reproduction rates. A consistent warm environment encourages natural behaviours and steady growth. High humidity levels of 70-80% are essential, but ensure adequate ventilation to prevent stagnant air and mould issues. Monitor moisture levels carefully - the substrate should feel damp but never waterlogged. Create a moisture gradient with one end slightly drier to give isopods options for thermoregulation. Breeding and Colony Development Crabby Isopods reproduce at a moderate pace once established, typically producing small broods of 5-15 offspring. Females carry their eggs in a marsupium (brood pouch) for approximately 4-6 weeks before releasing miniature versions of the adults called mancae. Successful breeding requires stable conditions, adequate nutrition, and minimal disturbance. Young isopods remain with their mother for several weeks, receiving nourishment and protection during their vulnerable early stages. Building a thriving colony takes patience, but established cultures can provide years of enjoyment. Care Difficulty and Considerations Crabby Isopods are classified as medium-difficulty species, making them suitable for keepers with some prior isopod experience. They require more attention to environmental parameters than beginner species but are more forgiving than the most challenging Cubaris varieties. Success with this species depends on maintaining consistent conditions, providing proper nutrition, and understanding their shy nature. They prefer minimal handling and disturbance, thriving best when left to establish their own routines within a well-designed habitat. For newcomers to the hobby, consider starting with beginner-friendly species before advancing to these more specialised Cubaris varieties. However, dedicated keepers who research proper care techniques will find Crabby Isopods to be rewarding and fascinating terrarium inhabitants. Why Choose Crabby Isopods? These remarkable creatures offer a unique combination of beauty, behaviour, and biological function that makes them standout additions to any collection. Their role as bioactive cleanup crew members makes them invaluable in naturalistic setups, where they continuously work to process organic waste and maintain healthy substrate conditions. Beyond their practical benefits, Crabby Isopods provide endless opportunities for observation and study. Their complex social behaviours, moulting cycles, and reproductive strategies offer insights into the fascinating world of terrestrial crustaceans. Whether you're selecting species for your collection or seeking unique additions to your terrarium, Crabby Isopods represent an excellent choice for dedicated enthusiasts ready to provide the specialised care these remarkable creatures deserve. Shipping Information Isopods are posted Monday to Thursday using Royal Mail's next day by 1pm service Plus 20% overcount sent with every order 24/7 live chat available - We are always here and happy to chat! (subject to sleeping) Helpful Resources Cubaris Isopod Care: A Comprehensive Guide What Do Woodlice Eat? Top Foods and Feeding Habits Explained Top Isopod Species for Your Vivarium How to Choose the Right Isopod Species Best Isopods for Beginners (UK Edition)

PostPods Gestroi 'Milky Way' Isopods (Armadillidium) £30.00

Though the world of isopods is filled with various species, something about Milky Way Isopods makes them captivating keepers and hobbyists. One outstanding feature that makes them adored by isopod lovers is their speckled exoskeleton, which imitates a starry night sky. It is nothing less than an illusion that makes you keep admiring them. Other than that, Milky Way Isopods are easy to maintain and involve no hassles like some other species do. If you are a beginner, you will find them easy to handle. A Glimpse Origin: UK (Jennifer Gosling) Scientific Name: Armadillidium gestroi Difficulty: Easy Temperature: 20-24C Rarity: Not rare Size: Up to 1.5 inches Humidity: 60-80% Favourable Foods: Vegetable scraps, leaf litter, rotten hardwoods, cuttlebone, eggshells, oyster shells. An Overview Milky Way Isopods are land-dwelling isopods which were first successfully isolated and developed by Jennifer Gosling in the UK. But you can now find them in other regions due to trading among keepers. These isopods are exotic because of their coloration and patterns, which are hard to find in other species. Their speckled exoskeleton makes them look attractive and appealing to keepers. Belonging to the Armadillidiidae family, this species is known precisely for its unique self-defense mechanism called conglobation. A mechanism allows them to curve into a ball to keep themselves from attacking their soft bellies. They usually do this in the wild, but you can also see this behavior in captivity if they are threatened. Compared to other isopods, Milky Way Isopods are much bigger. They grow up to 1.5 inches long and can easily adapt to captive environments. Basic Care You cannot expect your isopods to live healthily unless you take care of them properly. Here are the key aspects of their care: Use a large container with enough space for your isopods to roam freely and build a colony when they breed. You can use plastic or glass terrariums; the choice is yours. To thrive without correct humidity and temperature is almost impossible for them, making it crucial for you that levels don’t fluctuate much; otherwise, it can cause problems. Milky Way Isopods are found in humid areas, which means you must create a similar setup in captivity as well. Mist the terrarium regularly, and everything should be fine. Since they are nocturnal, they don’t need special lighting. Just an ambient room light is sufficient for them to thrive. Milky Way Isopods: Feeding Milky Way Isopods are not different when it concerns their diet. Just like the majority of species, they, too, love to feed on decaying organic matter. To keep their bellies happy, feed them rotting leaves from hardwood trees like oak or beech. Not just their happy meal, but these also contain nutrients essential for their development. Veggies like carrots, zucchini, or potatoes also add to their better health and well-being. Appearance & Behaviour Milky Way Isopods are one of the most attractive species. The patterns they have sprinkled on their bodies create a unique look. Their appearance and behavior make them a highly sought-after species in the isopod-keeping. Milky Way Isopods are most active at night when the sun goes down, and it is the perfect time to explore their surroundings. They are social creatures and prefer to live in colonies like other isopods do. Milky Way Isopods: Habitat Milky Way Isopods need a stable and safe environment to live and breed peacefully without fear. You can create a similar setup by adding moist areas in their habitat. For this, use rich organic matter like leaf litter and decaying wood that are found in forest floors naturally. Also, add a lot of hiding places where they can seek shelter or rest when not active. Substrate Mix Be it Milky Way Isopods or any other species, they don’t do well without a good substrate mix. This is why you should pay more attention to this aspect and ready a proper substrate mix. For the base layer, use coconut coir and organic potting soil as they encourage burrowing behaviors. For moisture retention, incorporate sphagnum moss to maintain the necessary humidity levels and provide additional foraging material. You can also add leaf litter and calcium sources to complete the setup.

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