Porcellio Isopods

Are you considering getting a Porcellio Isopod as a pet? These fascinating creatures are often overlooked but make for great starter pets. Here's everything you need to know to create a happy and healthy home for your new Porcellio Isopod.

What Are Porcellio Isopods?

Porcellio Isopods are land-dwelling crustaceans that are often referred to as "roly-polies" or "pill bugs." They are not insects or arachnids but are, in fact, more closely related to lobsters and crabs. Porcellio Isopods are native to many parts of the world and can be found in a variety of habitats, from forests to deserts.

Setting up Your Porcellio Isopod's Habitat

Porcellio Isopods are relatively easy to care for and require minimal space. A 10-gallon terrarium is an ideal size for a small group of Porcellio Isopods. You'll need to create a comfortable and naturalistic habitat for them to thrive in.

To set up your Porcellio Isopod's habitat, start with a layer of substrate. Coconut fiber and sphagnum moss are good choices. Add some leaf litter, twigs, and other natural materials to create hiding spots for your isopods.

Porcellio Isopods need a warm and humid environment. Keep the habitat temperature between 75-85°F and maintain humidity levels of 60-80%. You can achieve this by misting the habitat daily and providing a shallow dish of water for your isopods to drink from.

Feeding Your Porcellio Isopods

Porcellio Isopods are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods. You can feed them a commercial diet designed for isopods, fresh fruits and vegetables, and even small amounts of protein such as fish food or boiled eggs. Make sure to remove any uneaten foods to prevent mold growth.

Breeding Porcellio Isopods

Porcellio Isopods are easy to breed and will reproduce quickly in the right conditions. You can start with a small group of isopods and watch their population grow. Make sure to provide plenty of hiding places and a good food source to encourage breeding.

Porcellio Isopods are fascinating and easy to care for pets that make great additions to any household. By providing the right habitat and food, you can create a happy and healthy home for your new pet isopods. Don't hesitate to give Porcellio Isopods a try – you won't regret it!