There is something slightly addictive about isopods, so often we want to have another different species, and unlike so many other animals, there’s no harm. Given that they can thrive in a small enclosure, don’t cost a lot in terms of upkeep, and don’t need daily walks, or a lot of cleaning out, then there’s nothing wrong with keeping your eye open for a new species.
So whilst you’re thinking about it, here are 5 species you might not have thought about.
Jelly Bean Isopods (A.Vulgare St. Lucia)
Want a tiny piece of Caribbean tropics in your home, then St. Lucia or Jelly Bean Isopods are a great start.
A confident and outgoing isopods these guys won't wait till it's dark to come out and feed. They'll be out there as soon as they get a sniff of food. With a huge variety of colours even in a single colony, these are easy to care for, but worth it for any keeper at any stage.
Thai Spiky Isopods (Isopoda Sp.)
So many people who have kept these say they are a personal favourite, small but rather unique among isopods. They need higher humidity and can be a little trickier to keep, but their care isn’t impossible.
Merulanella sp.
Merulanella is a genus rather than a species, but they are so striking and exotic that we sell out quickly, so keep your eye on the sales page or our social media for when we release some for sale. Or drop me a message and I will do my best to let you know when they’re about to go up for sale.
Some of the species that we stock include Ember Bee, Red Diablo, Phoenix Isopods, and Tri Colour Isopods. These are colourful and rarer isopods that I think anyone should consider in their collection.
Pink Lambo Isopods
Always wanted a Lambo? How about a Lambo isopod? Much better, much cheaper, and a much better conversation starter. With striking colours, including spots of pink these should be on any enthusiast's list.
Be aware that they can climb, so you will need to cover all the vents, have tight-fitting lids or doors, and make sure that there isn't a space where wires go in and out.
Porcellio expansus
You’ve probably heard of these, they are one of the larger species available in the hobby. They prefer a drier enclosure, are slower to start breeding, and need more space to establish territories. But they are one that everyone should keep. Large enough to be clearly visible, interactive among each other, and something worth keeping as a pet in their own right. Their care may need a bit of a tweak from other isopod species, but it's well worth the effort.