5 underrated isopod species

There are some popular species of isopod, and rightly so, but there are a lot of species that somehow don't get the same interest, which is a shame as they're just as interesting and exciting as the more fashionable Rubber Duckys, Panda Kings, and Dairy Cows.

Armadillidium granulatum Orange Isopods

1. granulatum Orange are a firm favourite here, they're one of the most confident species of isopods we've ever kept. Happily hanging out on the top of the leaf litter, or on the cork bark we put in for them to hide under. A great choice for keeping as pets, or in a bioactive set-up with something that's not going to view them as a light snack.

Jumbo Armadillidium gestroi

1. gestroi is a great isopod to keep, and these have all the things you love about them, the bright colours, easy to keep, and their love of hanging about in the open, but in a bigger package. This is great for three reasons, firstly they will deal with waste that bit quicker, helping to keep things cleaner, they're easier to see, and the females will have more offspring. They also have brighter colours, so what's not to love?

Porcellio hoffmannseggii (Titan Isopods)

Okay, so they're not the Giant Isopods that live in the deep oceans, but compared to other terrestrial species these are a fair size. Getting up to 4cm in length titan isopods are something that so many isopod lovers are trying to get their hands on. They're quite pretty to look at even though they're not the bright colours of others.

 Just be aware they can be territorial so keep them in a large enough enclosure.

Cubaris sp. Amber Ducky

 You may have heard of Rubber Ducky Isopods, but have you heard of Amber Ducky Isopods, if not then you’ve missed out. As pretty as Rubber Duckys, with warmer colours, but much braver, meaning you get to see them more.

 A real piece of the Asian rainforest where they are naturally found, these are a little drop of walking amber. Interestingly these can be found in mangrove forests and more coastal areas, although these are completely terrestrial.

Cubaris sp. Amber Firefly

 The pattern and colours of these isopods really set them apart, in the right light it almost looks like they're glowing. They're a bit more expensive than many species of isopod, but they're worth the money, and as with all isopods if you can get them breeding yourself they're more of an investment than a cost.