Calcium for Isopods: A Guide to Supplementing

Trachelipus Trilobatus are medium-sized species that are native to Russia. Predominantly found near the Black Sea, these flat isopods have a hard exoskeleton. They have a greyish pattern and orange-tinged ring at the base of their exoskeleton. The beginner series isopod can make precious pets even for experienced isopod collectors. The Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods are also found on the coast of Turkey and Georgia in abundance. These Romanian isopods resemble the Porcellio Spatulatus Coros species a lot. These beautiful isopods thrive in mediumly humid environments. A Glimpse Origin: Russia, Eastern Europe (Romania) Scientific Name: Trachelipus Trilobatus Difficulty: Easy Rarity: High Temperature: 18 to 26℃ Size: 2 cm to 4 cm Humidity: Medium Favourable Foods: Cuttlebone, eggshells, decaying leaves An Overview Trachelipus Trilobatus make beloved and interesting pets because they are rare to find. These Trachelipus isopods are Russian and Romanian species characterized by their greyish pattern and orange-tinged ring at the base of their exoskeleton.    These Eastern European natives have a somewhat flat appearance. These elegant Trachelipus isopods resemble the Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods. These easy-to-keep and easy-to-breed isopods are medium-sized species that can grow from 2cm to 4cm in size.    Being a mediumly humid environment thrivers, the Trilobatus Isopods need a terrarium setup with medium to high levels of humidity. As the original climate of the Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods is subtropical, they can grow in warm weathered and hard wintery setups conveniently.    These iso odsmake ideal pets because of their fast breeding capabilities and a high tolerance for colder environments. Feeding the Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods is not difficult either. These isopods do not have any kind of fixed diet. The Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods can be fed decayed wood, cuttlefish bone, and limestone.    Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods are fast breeders. They can produce large numbers under suitable environmental conditions. These stunning isopods have excellent breeding capabilities. Basic Care For Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to the Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods. You can use an enclosure setup with a medium level of humidity to house the Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods. It is essential to ensure the Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods get sufficient calcium supply through supplements like cuttlefish bone.  Don’t keep the enclosure in direct light.  Make use of a substrate mix with vegetable peels and wood pieces to meet the needs of the Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods. Feeding Trachelipus Trilobatus are a relatively easy species when it comes to feeding. The Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods can feed on staple diets like decaying wood and leaf litter. They are not fond of a certain type of food. These Isopods consume dried vegetables and vegetable peels as found in the natural environment.  Appearance And Behaviour Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods thrive in medium to high humidity conditions. They can be a suitable choice for beginners because they are easy to keep and even easier to breed isopods.  Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods are medium-sized isopods with a flat appearance. These greyish-orange coloured isopods resemble the Porcellio Spatulatus Coros in appearance. You can make an ample amount of hiding spots because they are highly preferred by the Trachelipus Trilobatus. Trachelipus Triobatus Isopods Habitat The Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods is a species recognized for its fast breeding capabilities. The Trachelipus Trilobatus can live beside other species and animals in an enclosure. They are not scavengers and can keep a vivarium setup clean.   Substrate Mix These isopodswill need a substrate mix with wood pieces, leaf litter, vegetable peels, and more. Isopod collectors can add natural supplements of wood and leaves within the setup. Oyster shells are essential supplements for their growth. Add only pesticide free supplements inside the enclosure because they can pose a huge risk for the Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods.

The Pink Panda King Isopods are an eye-catching species, known for their vibrant pink and white coloration. A rare and unique addition to any collection, these isopods are popular among hobbyists for their distinctive appearance and relatively easy care requirements. Ideal for bioactive enclosures, they thrive in humid environments and play an important role in maintaining the ecosystem by breaking down organic matter. Their captivating look and low maintenance make them a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced isopod enthusiasts. Insight Place of Origin: Vietnam Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. 'Panda King' Maintenance Effort: Medium Ideal Temperature Range: 70℉ - 80℉ General Size:  ~ 1 cm Rareness: Low to Medium Humidity Range: 70% - 80% Preferred Diet: Fruit, vegetables, fish food  Supplements in Addition: Cuttlebone, eggshells Panda King Isopods: Introduction These isopods are generally observed in limestone caves and belong to central and northern parts of Vietnam. These species prefer to be in an environment which is humid. Isopods of length approximately 1.5 cm are seen generally. They play a major role in the ecosystem balancing, by feeding on the decaying plants and rotting wood. They supply nutrients to the soil by consuming the decaying matter, maintaining the balance of required nutrients in soil. Characteristics of Panda King Isopods These critters have black and white colour exoskeletons. They grow up to 1.5 cm in length.  Their striking and adorable features make them one of the most sought-after isopods. They are easy to care for and require minimum maintenance. They are beginner-friendly. They are nocturnal in nature. They breed rapidly once established in their habitat. They are detritivores in nature. It has a soft exoskeleton and is used to feed poison dart frogs and other small animals. Vegetables, greens, and fish food are good for maintaining nutrition. The consumption of calcium for these isopods is a bit higher than other isopod species. Feeding These isopods feed on almost all types of food. They are essentially scavengers and feed on organic waste. However, during confinement in a cage, it is imperative to offer optimal nutrition. They can be supplemented with vegetables, greens, rotten leaves, or even wood. For calcium and protein, dried shrimp, fish food, cuttlebone, and egg shells are great for these species growth and development. Calcium powder is also good to give as a substitute.  Most isopod owners make the mistake of overfeeding the isopods. Overfeeding attracts pests into their enclosure. Therefore, it is important to feed the necessary quantity of food.  Natural Habitat Panda King isopods live in limestone caves and taverns. These species are commonly found in the central and northern parts of Thailand. In this region, caves are abundant. The caves are dark and humid; therefore, they are suitable for the isopods.  Panda King isopods are scavengers. They are also found among rotting leaves, fruits and vegetables. These species like to live in dark areas. They are shy in nature and like to burrow and hide. It is necessary to understand their natural habitat to build an artificial habitat for these isopods. Panda King Isopods: Breeding Panda King isopods are active species ready to reproduce unless acclimated to their surroundings.  Once they adapt to their surroundings, they start producing many offspring.  These isopods have a distinct mating ritual where the male isopods transfer sperm into the female's pleopods. The offspring hatch after six weeks after the eggs are attached to a firm surface. These offspring stay close to their mother, thus forming a small colony. Artificial Habitat of Panda King Isopods Panda King isopods thrive in humid environments. They are native to the tropical climates of Asia and need moisture to stay hydrated. Keep them in a small box to help them acclimate to a new environment. Once they're comfortable, transfer them to a plastic box with ventilation. Use deep bedding, including materials like old wood, dried leaves, and moss, for a cosy habitat.  It is necessary to prevent excess moisture as they may attract pests like mold and fruit flies. To combat this, adding springtails will help keep the environment clean and free of unwanted guests. It's important to keep the humidity right for the well-being of these isopods so they have a comfortable and healthy place to live. So, with proper care and attention to their habitat, you can enjoy the delightful presence of Panda King isopods in your home. Tank Mates for Pink Panda King Isopods Panda King isopods like to live in a highly humid environment. Therefore, pairing them with similar invertebrates that appreciate humidity is best.  It is necessary that tankmates for the isopods should be from the same region as the Panda King. Therefore, invertebrates like snails are the best tank mates in terrarium and vivarium settings. Another species that is suitable to be paired with is springtails. These creatures, when together, will prevent any kinds of pests and will keep the bioactive clean. Preferred Substrate Mixture for Pink Panda King Isopods A perfect substrate blend for Panda King Isopods is one that is deep, and also holds a lot of moisture. Use a small batch of coco coir, sphagnum moss, and orchid bark for the isopods, with the substrate depth reaching approximately 4 inches for burrowing.  Magnolia leaves enhance the habitat further, contributing to moisture retention and serving as excellent shelters for Panda King Isopods and their offspring. To mimic their natural surroundings, incorporate cork bark, dried oak leaves, and other elements into the enclosure. Wooden bark pieces are added to provide hiding spots, and dried leaves are added as food and for aesthetics. Sphagnum moss helps with moisture retention, which is a crucial factor for Panda King Isopods thriving in the environment. Although ventilation is necessary, it should be minimal to maintain the desired humidity gradient within the substrate. It should have both damp and dry areas. For nutrition, add earthworm castings and limestone powder to replicate their native habitat. This all-rounder substrate mix establishes a solid foundation, offering both sustenance and hydration to the isopods. Striking a balance between the various elements encourages natural behaviours and supports the physical health of Panda King Isopods in captivity. It allows them to thrive in an artificial environment that mimics the conditions of their natural habitat.

Murina Glacier Isopods, also known as Cubaris murina, are considered an excellent entry-level species within the Cubaris genus. Though they lack the vibrant colors or distinctive markings of other species, they are highly valued for their efficiency as bioactive custodians. These isopods are particularly well-suited for terrariums and vivariums, helping maintain a clean and balanced environment. Their adaptability and ease of care make them a popular choice for those new to the hobby. Cubaris Murina Glacier: Synopsis Place of Origin: Indo-Pacific region, North America Scientific Name: Cubaris murina Lifespan: 1-4 years Difficulty level:  Medium Temperature Range: 62℉-83℉ Size: 1 cm Rareness: Medium Humidity Range: 70% -80% Preferred Diet: fungi, bacteria, algae and other detritus Supplements in Addition: Cuttlebone, bat guano, calcium powder Cubaris Murina: Abstract Murina Glacier Isopods are highly adaptable to a variety of environments. These isopods are primarily found in the Pacific, the Caribbean, and North America. Their scientific name, Cubaris murina, is derived from the Latin words "cube," meaning "to lie," and "marina," which relates to sea creatures. This name reflects their smooth, small bodies, which have often led to them being mistaken for tiny sea organisms. Their ability to thrive in diverse habitats makes them a popular choice for bioactive setups. Characteristics These creatures are muted grey or purple in color with peach or orange spots at the rear end. It has a smooth and small body and is often mistaken as a sea creature due to its appearance. These species are great clean-up crews in terrariums and vivariums. They have a moderate reproduction rate. These isopods are easy to care for and are great for beginners. They are found in multiple types of habitats. Due to this, they are widely sought after. They are the best entry-level species with a forgiving nature. Murina Glacier Isopods: Morphs These species, which have either been cultured or found in the wild, are found in different patterns and colors.  Papaya: They are dull pink and are believed to be an albino version. These isopods are popular among enthusiasts. Glacier: It is an almost completely white variety. They have white eyes, legs, and antennae. Anemone: This isopod is a variety of speckled patterns of orange and grey. Florida Orange: The orange variety of the isopod discovered in the wild in Florida, hence the name. Murina Glacier Isopods: Food  Even Though the isopods are very small in size, their appetite is not very small. Feeding is essential to continue their life cycle. There are better methods than feeding them with random decaying material. The food supplied should be the perfect blend of various materials, ensuring that the isopods get all the required nutrients. The decaying organic matter should be placed in the corner of the container, forming the basis for their feeding. In addition to the organic matter, litters of leaf and decaying wood will help them maintain a healthy condition. Other than the naturally available materials, special supplements are designed to provide the perfect mix of required nutrients for the isopod. Supplying them with these designed foods can help them make healthy offspring. Cubaris Murina Glacier: Breeding The two main components for them to breed in abundance are the perfect food with the right amount of nutrients and a comfortable environment. Both can be achieved by using naturally available materials and man-made settings. Reproducing healthy offspring relates to the size and the regular structure.  A study was conducted in 2009 on these species, and it was discovered that they can produce decent-sized broods quickly. This makes them a reliable species for different kinds of terrariums. These species can proliferate in a culture where there is low density compared to a high-density culture. Cubaris Murina: Natural Environment The environment provided by Mother Nature to the isopods is humid in nature. To adjust to the temperature and humidity, they have the ability to burrow themselves inside their living area, which helps them maintain their preferred living conditions. Due to this ability, they are seen in many parts of the world where there is a perfect blend of moist and humid environments. These isopods come out of their burrow whenever they feel the environmental conditions are safe for them. With a large appetite, they will hunt for their food any time of the day. Cubaris Murina Glacier Isopods: Artificial Enclosure Setting It is always difficult to set up an artificially made environment that is 100% comfortable for the isopods. But with the advancements in technology, an environment that can mimic the natural environment can be set up, which can ensure a near-to-comfortable climate for the isopods. These artificial settings are achieved by using humidity controllers and temperature regulators. Based on the sensor feedback, the system adjusts the conditions itself, providing the isopods with a misty environment, almost matching their natural environment. Proper care of the system has to be ensured as a wrong sensor feedback may create a difference in temperature or humidity, resulting in an uncomfortable environment. This will affect the lifespan as well as the ability to reproduce. For an artificial setting, start with a shoebox-size plastic container.  They do not reproduce in a short period of time. Therefore, the same box can be used for a longer period of time. It is to be ensured that sufficient ventilation is provided in the artificially designed environment.  Habitat and Substrate Mix They generally adapt to all kinds of environments. However, their preferred environment is a moist one.  While setting up the artificial environment, it is best to provide a moisture-retaining element for the isopods to have comfortable living conditions.  Placing coconut coir inside their habitat can help mimic their natural environment, as it helps them to burrow inside. In addition, the bark of orchid trees and sphagnum moss are very good elements for locking the moisture inside the enclosure.  Earthworm casting is one of the main sources of nutrients, which will help them to produce healthy offspring. Cubaris Murina: Basic Care Proper care must be provided to culture and maintain these isopods. It is crucial to clean the enclosure regularly. Not maintaining hygiene may attract unwanted pests and affect the isopod's health. While making provision for ventilation, it is to be ensured that mesh is provided to prevent these critters from escaping. Monitor the enclosure and make sure that the humidity and temperature are maintained. Provide supplements to meet their overall nutritional needs. Also, while placing the enclosure, keeping them in a dark place away from sunlight is essential.

Isopods are tiny animals that do not have backbones. There are over 10,000 species of isopods present worldwide. Isopods are generally small creatures. Their size varies between a couple of micrometers up to a half meter (we don't sell those ones unfortunately) Isopods have a wide distribution geographically. Isopods are present in almost all terrains of the world. It is possible to find isopods in distinctive places like oceans, mountains, deserts, etc. Isopods have recently gained popularity as low-maintenance pets. They are great as beginner-friendly pets. Their ability to adapt to even the harshest conditions and relatively smaller size make them excellent pets.  In addition to being sold alone, they are also available in mystery boxes. Many isopod sellers/breeders offer isopod mystery boxes for customers to purchase. While purchasing a mystery box, the customer is unaware of the isopods that will be inside the box. This creates a high anticipation and excitement in the buyers. A General Overview Scientific Name: Isopoda   Class: Malacostraca   Kingdom: Animalia   Phylum: Arthropoda Isopod Mystery Box The Isopod mystery box is a very popular product for hobbyists for a variety of reasons. An isopod mystery box is a random collection of various isopods. The content and the isopod species in a mystery box will be unknown to the buyer until they receive it.  At PostPods, the isopod mystery boxes we offer contain extra isopods worth upto 50% more than the original  mystery box purchaseprice. These mystery boxes enable the buyer to receive a surprise element and the added value for the money paid. Although the selection of isopods for the mystery box is random, we list all the isopods we have available on our website. So, you will only recieve isopods from our listed items online. Why A Mystery Box? Brands and businesses worldwide have been developing a particular interest in the concept of mystery boxes. The idea of sending random products from a business’s collection sounds very interesting. It also creates a significant sense of curiosity and novelty for the buyers.  The pleasant surprise that the buyers feel when opening the mystery box is sure to cause significant dopamine release. The pleasure felt will be even more remarkable when the surprise is regarding live creatures or animals. Through mystery boxes of isopods, PostPods attempts to do the same. The team expects to make it a pleasant surprise for the buyers on which isopod they receive.  Types of Isopods in the Isopod Mystery Box As mentioned before, an isopod mystery box from PostPods contains some of the most popular types of isopods. They are explained in detail below (but not restricted to these types). Cubaris Cubaris is a very popular genus of creatures that contains over 100 species. Cubaris isopods are incredibly popular as pets as they require pretty low maintenance. When compared to other isopods, the Cubaris isopods have a relatively longer lifespan. Their reproduction rates are pretty low.  Cubaris isopods are very easy to take care of. These isopods are in high demand and are a bit expensive, so they are a valuable addition to any mystery box. The incredibly popular pet isopod called Rubber Ducky comes under the Cubaris genus. Some of the other famous members of the Cubaris genus are as follows. Porcellio Porcellio isopods are a possible addition to the isopod mystery boxes. Porcellio genus isopods are in great demand in the pet isopod world. Isopods of the Porcellio genus are found around the globe. Many isopods in the genus can withstand almost all kinds of harsh conditions. As of now, about 200 species have been reported to be a part of the Porcellio genus. A good number of these species are suitable to rear as pets. The very popular pet isopod called Dairy Cow is a member of the Porcellio genus. The isopods in the Porcellio genus generate great curiosity among buyers for their unique defence mechanism of running in a maze-like pattern. Their polymorphic trait is also unique. Armadillidium Armadillidium is a highly sold pet isopod genus. The isopod members of this genus are all in wide demand worldwide. The characteristic feature of the Armadillidium genus isopods is their ability to roll into a ball as part of the defence. Armadillidium isopods are one of the most commonly available isopods. They are also sold in bulk numbers due to the ease of caring for them. There are about 189 species present in the Armadillidium genus.