Colorful Isopod Species To Keep As A Pet
Creepy, crawling creatures like bugs and insects gross out many people. But Isopods are not among them. If anything, isopods are not gross. Also, it is not an insect but a land-dwelling crustacean you find in dark and humid places.
Talking about isopods, the variety is so huge you cannot keep track of them all. However, you can educate yourself about colorful isopods that most keepers find attractive.
Colourful isopods boast stunning patterns and shades that put them above other species. These patterns can vary widely between different morphs and wild types, making each isopod visually unique. If you want a colorful isopod for your collection, you have plenty to choose from. Collectors often seek out specific morphs for their unique coloration and patterns, while wild types offer a glimpse of the species' natural appearance. To help you out, we have short-listed a few guaranteed to win your heart. Meanwhile, look at isopods for sale and see if you can get them at an affordable price.
Introduction to Isopod Pets
Isopods, often called woodlice or pill bugs, are fascinating terrestrial crustaceans that have become increasingly popular as pets. With over 10,000 isopod species discovered worldwide, there’s a remarkable range of colorful isopods to choose from, each with its own unique patterns and shades. Enthusiasts are especially drawn to striking varieties like zebra isopods, clown isopods, and the ever-charming rubber ducky isopods. These bugs are not only attractive but also hardy, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced keepers. Isopods thrive in bioactive setups, where they help maintain a clean environment and can coexist with other species. Popular choices such as Armadillidium vulgare and Trichorhina tomentosa are known for their beautiful coloration and adaptability, making them a staple in the hobby for anyone looking to add a splash of colour and activity to their collection.
Armadillidium gestroi
There’s a good chance you have heard about Gestroi Isopods Armadillidium gestroi isopods before. After all, it is one of the most colorful species that attract keepers with stunning patterns on their bodies.
Compared to other isopods, Armadillidium gestroi has a larger and wider body that beautifully displays the coloration. The shades become more prominent as they grow and mature; as the isopod matures, its coloration and patterns become even more striking. Also, they are easy to breed, which is another plus point to owning these isopods.
Clown Isopod
Clown isopods are known for their vibrant coloration, which always gets your attention. From the white/yellow polka dots to the red-orange skirts, the entire body boasts a stunning color combination that is hard not to notice.
But before you add them to your collection, learn about their slightly different requirements from those of other isopods. For starters, they need more protein, which means you need to have a constant source available in the enclosure. Also, they need a mossy hydration station and a very dry area, which are essential for their survival. Clown Isopods tend to be more active and visible when their environmental needs are met.
Zebra Isopod
Just by hearing the name Zebra isopods, you are likely to guess the reason. Similar to zebra, these isopods too come with black and white stripes on their bodies. Unlike some other species, they are prolific and hardy, which is one of the reasons keepers want them.
Owning Zebra Isopods requires little effort as long as their enclosure is well-ventilated and the substrate mix is comfortable. Also, they need a damp spot to breathe and function properly. Providing a moist area within their enclosure is essential to ensure their health. If you can meet these requirements, you are fit to own Zebra Isopods.
Ornatus High Yellow Isopods
Because of the high amount of yellow coloration, these isopods have a higher market value than the standard Ornatus Isopods.
If you want an exotic-looking crustacean, Ornatus High Yellow Isopods are a good choice because of their highly marked bodies. Create an environment suitable for their survival. Ornatus High Yellow Isopods are well-suited to enclosures with high humidity, which helps maintain their vibrant coloration, and you can have a good time watching them crawl inside your glass terrarium.
Orange Vigor Isopods
Orange Vigor Isopods are available in a range of orange shades, including lighter and darker versions. What enhance their appearance are the tiny yellow dots on their orange bodies, which are absolutely eye-catching.
As long as you build a setup with good ventilation and proper airflow, you won’t have any problems keeping these isopods. However, they do need a damp area, which is essential for their survival. So, if you are ready to fulfill these requirements, Orange Vigor isopods are a good fit for you.
Owning isopods is a unique experience in itself. But the feeling doubles if you have an attractive species like the ones we mentioned in this post. Even though they need extra attention and care, it is worth putting in the effort.
Orange Vigor Isopods are prolific breeders and can produce large numbers of offspring when kept in optimal conditions.
Isopod Care and Maintenance
Caring for isopods is straightforward, but providing the right environment is key to keeping your colony healthy and active. Start with a suitable enclosure that offers good ventilation and a deep substrate, allowing your isopods to burrow and feel secure. It’s important to include a damp spot within the enclosure, as isopods need moisture to breathe and thrive. Their diet should be varied, including decaying plant matter and commercial isopod food, and some species—like the orange vigor isopod—benefit from more protein in their meals. Maintaining consistent humidity and temperatures is essential, especially for species that require higher moisture levels. Unlike many other bugs, isopods are easy to care for and can even share a vivarium with other species, such as dart frogs, making them a versatile and rewarding addition to any bioactive setup.
Bioactive Setups
Bioactive setups are an excellent way to house isopods, as they closely mimic the natural environment these creatures love. In a bioactive enclosure, a mix of substrate, live plants, and microfauna like springtails and isopods work together to create a self-sustaining ecosystem. This approach not only reduces maintenance but also provides a stimulating habitat for your isopod species. For example, Cubaris sp. often require higher humidity and plenty of hiding spots, while Armadillidium species may prefer a drier environment with ample substrate for burrowing. You can customize your setup with a variety of materials, such as moss, leaves, and branches, to suit the needs of your chosen isopods. Whether you’re keeping a single species or a diverse crew, a well-designed bioactive setup ensures your isopods remain healthy, active, and visible in their enclosure.
Isopod Diet and Nutrition
Isopods are natural recyclers, feeding primarily on decaying plant matter like leaves and wood. To keep your isopods healthy, offer a variety of foods, including commercial isopod diets available as pellets or powders. Some species, such as the clown isopod, require more protein and will benefit from occasional supplements like crushed nuts or seeds. A balanced diet is crucial for growth and breeding, so be sure to provide a mix of plant-based foods and protein sources. Don’t forget to include a source of calcium, such as cuttlebone or crushed eggshells, to support their development. In a bioactive setup, isopods will also help clean up leftover food and organic debris, making them an essential part of a thriving vivarium.
Isopod Enclosures and Terrariums
Creating the perfect home for your isopods starts with choosing the right enclosure. Glass, plastic, or wooden terrariums can all work well, as long as they offer good ventilation and a secure lid to keep your isopods safe. A deep substrate, such as coconut fiber or peat moss, is essential for burrowing and maintaining the right humidity. Add a variety of hiding places—like rocks, logs, and plants—to help your isopods feel secure and encourage natural behaviors. Some species, such as the rubber ducky isopod, appreciate more complex environments with multiple levels and plenty of cover, while zebra isopods may prefer open spaces. The price of enclosures can vary depending on size and materials, but investing in a well-designed setup will help your isopods thrive, breed, and display their full range of colours and patterns.