A Basic Guide To Setting Up & Selecting Your First Isopods
When it comes to isopods, if you search online you will find many different ways suggested to keeping them - generally speaking (depending on species) Isopods can be kept a multitude of different ways with very good success. Isopods are terrestrial crustaceans, closely related to lobsters and crabs. They are also commonly known as woodlice (or woodlouse in singular), and are popular as low-maintenance pets for beginners and hobbyists. Isopods can be kept as primary inhabitants in a terrarium, or as part of a bioactive setup where they act as a cleanup crew, helping to maintain a healthy environment for other pets.
Here is a guide I have made below which highlights the way we would personally setup and keep isopods. We have this question asked many times so I thought I would write a blog post/article to try help with this.
Enclosures
Isopods can be kept in a variety of containers, such as plastic containers, glass tanks, or terrariums. Most people begin keeping isopods in small enclosures such as 1.3 or 3l braplasts, whilst this is and can be done with great success personally I find setting up isopods in larger containers from the start enables me to maintain the environment much easier for them especially the humidity and temperature gradients.
When selecting a container, it is important to choose one with proper ventilation, adequate size, and escape-proof features to ensure a safe and comfortable habitat for your isopods. Plastic containers, like Tupperware or Sterilite bins, are affordable and easy to modify for ventilation, while glass tanks offer a more aesthetic look and are easy to clean, but may be heavier and more fragile. Both plastic containers and glass tanks can be used successfully, as long as they provide good airflow and secure lids. A well-designed enclosure setup should mimic the isopods' natural habitat, with attention to moisture, hiding spots, and substrate to promote healthy growth and natural behaviors.
Due to this I would personally recommend WHAM Crystal tubs from the range which can be found here we generally start with the 11litre tubs unless you are looking to setup a larger isopod species such as hoffmanseggii or hellabravia in which case I would go for a 17l tub.
Substrate
Selecting the right isopod substrate is crucial for maintaining a healthy environment for your isopods, as it helps retain moisture, provides burrowing opportunities, and can even serve as a food source. For a quick solution you can purchase a ready made substrate from our friends at the bug room here
If however you would prefer to make your own, here is how I personally create mine.
Organic topsoil - most brands are ok just make sure they don’t contain pesticides, I personally have used top soil from Wickes and The Range and personally prefer the one from Wickes here
Wood Pellets - This is a trick I learned from my good friend Tom at Exotic Empire. One of these bags will last a long time, simply put some of these pellets and add hot water and the pelletts will swell up and turn into a sawdust like substrate. Some leave this overnight but I have found it swells and cools within a few hours but always best to leave a little longer just to be safe. You can find this at a lot of retailers such as amazon and the range but for ease ill link you to the one at the range here
Worm Castings - this is not a requirement but more a nice to have, again like most things on this guide, the brand isn’t importand as long as it is organic but i personally use this one
You can also add peat moss to your isopod substrate mix for its excellent moisture retention, but be aware of environmental concerns with peat harvesting and consider alternatives like coconut fiber if preferred.
It's important to create a moist area within the substrate, such as a patch of damp ground or moss, to maintain proper humidity and provide a retreat for moisture-loving isopods.
Other Staples
- cork bark serves several purposes, not only is it a great source of food for your isopods but it is also a great hiding place for your isopods and allows you to monitor your colonies population easier as most isopods will generally hide on/under this cork bark. Before adding to your enclosure we recommend putting it in the over for around 45-60minutes at 160c (on a fan assisted oven) to ensure any hitchhikers or other things are killed to ensure a safe environment for your isopods
Cuttle Bone - Cuttlebone is a great source of calcium for isopods, you can achieve similar results from calcium powder or egg shells but i find these can sometimes go a bit mouldy over time wheras I keep cuttlebone in my enclosures until the isopods have eaten it all. Cuttlebone also works as another great hiding place for your pods.
Leaf Litter - Some people like to add leaf litter into the enclosure as a food source from time to time, we however find we personally have better results from keeping leaf litter available at all times. This also makes it easier if you are going away for a short time as they will always have a food source available. Leaf litter and moss help replicate the isopods' natural diet by providing essential nutrients found in their natural habitat.
Moss - Moss is a great source of food for the pods and also helps with humidity for them too which is a win win.
Ventilation
Ventilation can be added in a number of ways, the amount of ventilation you require depends on the species you choose. These are the 2 ways we personally add ventilation
Holes around the top of the tub - These can be added with a soldering iron or a drill
Vents - Vents are something we have started using more recently since Exotic Empire started selling them. We personally use his 42mm vents where you drill a hole with a drillsaw piece and then the vents screw to the tub from either side of the tub. Tom makes these himself so please don’t hesitate to ask him if you want them in a particular style or colour.
Proper ventilation also helps regulate moisture levels in the enclosure, which is crucial for isopod health.
Moisture Regulation and Humidity
Moisture regulation is one of the most important aspects of isopod care, as these little critters thrive in environments with consistently high humidity. Most terrestrial isopods, including popular species like dwarf white isopods and larger species such as Armadillidium vulgare, need humidity levels between 60-80% to stay healthy and active. To achieve this, isopod keepers should regularly mist the enclosure with a spray bottle, focusing on one corner to create a moisture gradient. This allows isopods to choose between a damp area for burrowing and a drier spot for resting, mimicking their natural habitat. Monitoring humidity with a hygrometer can help you keep conditions just right, and adjusting the frequency of misting or the amount of ventilation will help maintain the ideal balance. Remember, different species may have slightly different preferences, so always tailor your approach to the specific needs of your isopods. With proper moisture regulation, your isopods will thrive and display their most natural behaviors.
Food Choices
Feeding isopods a varied and natural diet that closely mimics what they would eat in the wild is essential for their health and well-being. In their natural habitat, isopods feed on decaying organic matter, leaf litter, and other natural food sources, so replicating this natural diet in captivity is important. Proper feeding supports isopod health, growth, and breeding, ensuring your colony thrives. We generally alternate feeds between fruit/vegetables and a high protein food source, providing a range of nutrients through both natural foods and supplements such as calcium. Cucumber and butternut squash are strong favourites, but they can be fed a wide variety of foods. The main thing I would say is experiment and wash any food you give them thoroughly beforehand.
While fish flakes and TETRA pond sticks are often used as supplementary feed and are available from most supermarkets and online stores, fish flakes should be used sparingly as they can attract detritivorous mites and other pests. Focusing on a natural diet and varied feeding regime will help maintain a healthy isopod colony.
Isopod Behavior and Socialization
Isopods are surprisingly social creatures, and observing their interactions can be one of the most rewarding parts of keeping them as pets. In the wild, isopods are typically found in groups, communicating through subtle body movements and chemical cues. In captivity, most species do well in small starter cultures or larger colonies, depending on their temperament. For example, pill bugs tend to be more solitary and may prefer fewer companions, while other isopods enjoy the company of their own kind and can be kept in larger groups. It’s important for isopod keepers to research the social needs of their chosen species, as some can be territorial or even aggressive, while others are peaceful and thrive in a bustling colony. By understanding these social dynamics, you can create a more harmonious environment for your isopods and enjoy watching their fascinating group behaviors.
Creating a Thriving Ecosystem
Building a thriving ecosystem for your isopods goes beyond just the basics—it’s about creating a miniature world where your pets can flourish. Start with a suitable substrate, such as tree fern fiber or sphagnum moss, which helps retain moisture and provides a comfortable base for burrowing. Adding tropical plants or mosses not only enhances the look of your isopod enclosure but also offers natural hiding spots and additional food sources. Don’t forget to include pieces of cork bark or rocks, which give your isopods places to hide and feel secure. To keep the environment balanced, many isopod keepers introduce springtails or other microfauna, which help break down excess food and organic matter, reducing the risk of mold and keeping the habitat clean. If you’re new to keeping isopods, research the specific needs of your chosen species before purchasing isopods for sale, and always aim to replicate their natural environment as closely as possible. With the right combination of substrate, plants, and hiding spots, your isopod colony will thrive.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best setup, isopod keepers may encounter a few common challenges. Fungus gnats are a frequent nuisance, often attracted by excess food and moisture in the enclosure. To keep them at bay, remove uneaten food promptly and avoid over-misting. Mold can also develop if there isn’t adequate airflow, so make sure your enclosure has enough ventilation and consider adding more vents if needed. Isopods are known for their ability to squeeze through tiny gaps, so always double-check that your enclosure is secure to prevent any escape attempts. Stress in isopods can result from sudden changes in humidity or temperature, so try to keep environmental conditions stable and consistent. Additionally, maintaining a clean enclosure and providing a balanced diet will help prevent disease and keep your isopods healthy. By staying attentive to these potential issues and making small adjustments as needed, you’ll ensure your isopod pets remain happy and your enclosure stays in top condition.
The Pods!
Common species like dairy cows and powder isopods are ideal for beginners, as they are easy to find and care for. Pet isopods are available in a variety of colors and sizes, making them appealing to hobbyists. Most people would go for dairy cows for the first isopods which is a great choice, they are very very resilient and have great appetites and breed quickly. However, personally I prefer Powder Isopods; these, like dairy cows, are relatively cheap and not picky eaters, and have a good appetite. However, these are available in a variety of colours and are very active, which is one of the main reasons I prefer these over dairy cows.
We currently have these in 3 colours, orange, blue and white.
When choosing isopods, it’s important to select a specific species based on their environmental and dietary needs, as different species have distinct care requirements. Some keepers may choose to focus on one species per enclosure to prevent competition and promote healthy behavior. For example, trichorhina tomentosa is a popular dwarf isopod species for bioactive setups, known for its small size, fast reproduction, and suitability for tropical and temperate enclosures. Smaller setups are ideal for dwarf species like trichorhina tomentosa or powder blues, while larger enclosures are needed for bigger species. Starting with a small starter culture can help establish a healthy isopod colony and maintain population levels, especially in vivarium environments.
For a more exotic option, you can also get panda king isopods; these will hide more than the powders and dairy cows when you first get them, but as they settle in and grow in numbers, so will the confidence of them. These are one of the easiest cubaris to keep, so much so we started keeping ours in a 17l tub but are now in a 62l tub due to how prolific of breeders they are.
