Isopods - Useful Articles

White Shark isopods are also known as White Shark Dwarf isopods. These isopods are one of the most minor Cubaris sp. They are fascinating, adorable, widely appreciated, and more prevalent among exotic pet lovers and admirers. Synopsis Origin: Thailand Scientific Name: Cubaris sp Size: 8mm Temperature: 75°F to 80°F Maintenance: Easy to medium Humidity: 60% to 80% Supplement: Cuttlebone, Limestone Rarity: Low Recommended enclosure: Plastic or glass with proper ventilation Abstract White shark Isopods of the Crustaceans order are native to Thailand. They have orange, white, and dark blue exoskeletons. These Cubaris sp. thrive more than any other cubaris sp. and are suitable to breed in an enclosure. White sharks are a unique dwarf isopod species known for their specific habitat preferences, diet, and care requirements, making them popular among enthusiasts who keep them as pets or in captivity. These critters are like every isopod; they are diurnal and consume rotten plant and organic matter, thus maintaining the ecosystem. Like most isopods, they have a huge appetite and eat almost everything. Learn more about using isopods as feeders. These critters roll and form a ball when threatened. These creatures thrive in tropical habitats with high humidity and high lime-content soil. They are shy and reclusive species and often like burrowing in the soil. Behaviour and Appearance It has a tricolour carapace with orange, white and dark blue. They can grow up to 0.8 cm long. They are one of the smallest species. Their colour and small size make it adorable and visually appealing. They are active at night. i.e. nocturnal They are easy to care for if kept at an optimal temperature and humidity. They prefer humid environments. Around 80% humid 20%dry. They need moisture for moulting. They feed on vegetables, greens, fish food, and decaying leaves. Limestone and cuttlefish are suitable for calcium and protein. White Shark Isopods inhabit their environment by utilizing materials like cork bark, leaf litter, and decaying wood to feel secure and establish themselves. They are not beginner-friendly, but they will thrive well if taken care of them. They are child-friendly. Feeding Unlike other Cubaris species, White Shark Dwarf isopods require a high-nutrition diet. The main food components are fodder leaves and flaky soil with rotten white wood given on alternate days. These creatures need protein twice a week, vegetables, and dried leaves. Protein-rich food like cuttlefish bone, oyster shells, and limestone powder keep them healthy. It is important to provide White Shark Isopods with access to calcium sources such as cuttlefish bone and limestone to support their health and development. Breeding Offsprings White Shark Isopods are active species ready to reproduce unless acclimated to their surroundings. It takes a month for them to establish. Once they adapt to their surroundings, they start producing many offspring.  These creatures are highly active in breeding, and therefore, they may produce many offspring. Consequently, monitoring their behaviour and taking care of these creatures is necessary.  White Shark Isopod: Temperature and Habitat For the White shark isopod, it is necessary to have an enclosure made of plastic or glass. The enclosure should be big enough to support their colony. They should have a small ventilation. For details on caring for other isopod species, see this comprehensive guide to dairy cow isopod care. We recommend using a secure lid with adjustable ventilation and selecting a habitat size that allows for both burrowing and movement to ensure optimal conditions for White Shark Isopods. Moisture is essential for White Shark isopods. Maintaining a humid environment is crucial for the overall health of White Shark Isopods. Maintaining the enclosure 80% moist and the rest dry allows them to regulate their hydration. White Shark isopods can survive low temperatures. But the optimal temperature for the creatures to breed will be around 75°F to 80°F. It takes time for White Shark Isopods to get adapted to the environment. Once they adapt, they start producing offspring due to the provided good environmental conditions and habitat. Also, it is necessary to provide a thick substrate base for them to burrow and dig. They are shy and reclusive and like to get burrowed in. Burrowing also helps them to maintain the moisture inside their body. Therefore, providing an ideal environment with a dense substrate is necessary. Excess humidity is not ideal for the White Shark Isopods to live in. This will invite uninvited pests like mould, gnats, mites and fruit flies. Also, excessive moisture may affect the isopods’ moulting and cause them to die off. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain the high humidity but not too much. Proper ventilation will help in getting rid of excess moisture in their habitat. Substrate Mixture Creating a good substrate mix is essential. Since the White Shark isopods are humidity-loving creatures, providing a suitable substrate mix is necessary. Two types of substrate mix bases exist for the White Shark Dwarf isopods. One consists of an ABG substrate mix with oak leaf litter, cottonwood bark and live moss. Atlanta Botanical Garden or ABG mix is a standard mixture for terrarium and vivarium. This mixture is also used as a substrate mix. It has a mixture of substrates that helps create a balance of elements in the artificial habitat for isopods. Drainage Water retention Retention of nutrients Compaction resistance   Long Lasting   The substrate mix should consist of the following items: Sphagnum moss: 1 part Tree fern fibre: 2 part Orchid bark: 2 part Peat moss: 1 part One part charcoal This mixture can be used as a substrate base for the  White Shark isopods’ enclosure. While providing the enclosure with the base, make a thick base. This helps the creatures for digging and moulting. There is another substrate mix for the White Shark isopods. They consist of the following items: Coconut humus Mixed soil Wooden bark Orchid Moss Both these substrate mixes are suitable for White Shark isopods. This mix provides the enclosure the necessary base for the habitat that they’re from Note: It is important to monitor humidity levels closely and avoid creating an overly damp environment. Too much humidity and dampness can cause moulting issues and sudden die-offs. Therefore, it is crucial to provide space for moisture to escape. Providing small ventilation can help solve the issue. Also, adding decaying wood pieces, cork bark, and piles of leaf litter can help with excess moisture. This helps in mimicking the natural habitat they are from. White Shark Isopods need a lot of protein. Therefore, limestone powder is added to both substrates, mimicking their habitat. Earthworm casting, cuttlefish bone, oyster shell, and fish food are other better supplements for these critters. These isopods need places to hide and explore. Therefore, providing a wooden bark will help provide them a hiding space. In conclusion, this well-balanced substrate mix helps sustain the physical health of White Shark isopods mimicking their natural habitat. This encourages them to bring out natural behaviour, adapt and breed offspring. White Shark Isopods as Bioactive Clean-up Crew White Shark isopods (Cubaris sp.) are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy, bioactive environment in their enclosure. As a small species, these isopods excel at breaking down organic waste, making them an essential part of any naturalistic habitat. Their diet is perfectly suited for this role, as they eagerly consume leaf litter, decaying wood pieces, and other organic debris, helping to keep the enclosure clean and balanced. In a bioactive setup, White Shark isopods act as a natural clean-up crew, efficiently processing leftover foods, fecal matter, and decomposing plant material. By feeding on piles of leaf litter and cork bark, they help prevent the build-up of waste and reduce the risk of mold and other unwanted organisms. This not only keeps the environment healthy for your isopods but also benefits any co-inhabitants in the enclosure. To ensure your White Shark isopods thrive as a clean-up crew, it’s important to provide a suitable substrate mix. A combination of soil, cork bark, and leaf litter creates the perfect habitat for them to forage and feel safe. Maintaining the right humidity is crucial—too much humidity can lead to moulting issues and sudden die-offs, while too little can cause dehydration. Regularly monitor the enclosure’s moisture levels and make adjustments as needed to keep your colony healthy. Supplementing their diet with calcium-rich foods is also essential. Adding cuttlefish bone, oyster shells, and even small pieces of vegetables like carrots and zucchini will provide the nutrition they need for strong exoskeletons and successful breeding. These foods not only support their health but also encourage natural behaviors, making your White Shark isopods more active and visible. Because White Shark isopods are prolific breeders, it’s important to monitor their population and food supply. Overfeeding can result in excess moisture and potential issues with the environment, so remove uneaten foods promptly and adjust quantities as your colony grows. Providing plenty of hiding places, such as cork bark and piles of leaf litter, will help them feel secure and reduce stress. With their cute appearance, active nature, and impressive ability to break down waste, White Shark isopods are an excellent addition to any bioactive enclosure. By providing the right care, suitable substrate, and a balanced diet, you’ll enjoy a thriving, healthy colony that keeps your habitat clean and vibrant. Whether you’re new to keeping isopods or looking to enhance your bioactive setup, this small species is sure to impress with their hard work and charm.

The rubber ducky isopod gets its name from its unique appearance, which resembles the kind of small, oval-shaped pill bugs. Their body shape and coloration contribute to their distinctive look and nickname. Introduction to Isopods Isopods are a diverse group of creatures that belong to the order Isopoda, making them distant relatives of crabs and lobsters. Found all over the world, isopods inhabit a wide range of environments, from moist leaf litter on land to the depths of the ocean. These unique animals are known for their segmented bodies, multiple legs, and ability to adapt to various habitats. Among the many species of isopods, the rubber ducky isopod stands out for its charming appearance and popularity in the pet hobby. With its distinctive face that resembles a tiny rubber duck, this species has captured the hearts of enthusiasts everywhere. Whether found in the wild or cared for in a terrarium, isopods play an important role in their environment by breaking down decaying matter and contributing to healthy ecosystems. As more people discover the joys of keeping isopods, the rubber ducky isopod has become a favorite for those looking to add a unique and interactive pet to their collection. Originally from Thailand, Rubber Ducky isopods have stormed the isopod petting industry. These tiny creatures with rubber duck-like facial features are now some of the bestselling isopods worldwide. Most importantly, they were found relatively recently, in 2017. These collectible isopods are rare and need relatively higher humidity than most other isopods to survive. Rubber Ducky Isopods: A Glimpse Origin:Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan Scientific Name:Cubaris sp. Difficulty Level: Medium Size: Up to 1.5 cm Rarity: Very High Temperature: 70F to 80F Humidity: 70% TO 80% Favorite Foods:Dried shrimp, leaf litter, etc. Rubber Ducky Isopods: An Overview Rubber Ducky isopods are given the name due to their resemblance to the popular rubber duck toy in color and facial features. They are originally a part of the crustacean species. They are native to Asia’s highly humid limestone caves, especially in Thailand. Therefore, a highly humid environment is necessary for them to survive. Like other woodlice, rubber ducky isopods can roll into a protective ball as a defense mechanism, which helps shield them from predators. Although they are the most popular isopods globally, they are rare and unique. These exotic creatures are especially attracted to vegetables like cucumbers and sweet potatoes. Despite loving vegetables, they are essentially detritivores. Their non-aggressive temperament and small size make them the perfect beginner-friendly pet isopods. Rubber Ducky Isopods: Basic Care Rubber Ducky isopods need to have a highly humid environment to survive. So, you have to always keep the tank warm and humid. The temperature inside the tank should be between 25 and 28 degrees Celsius. You should also maintain the humidity level between 75% to 90%. It is important to provide shelter in the tank, such as logs, rocks, or moss, to give Rubber Ducky isopods safe hiding places and ensure their well-being. The Rubber Ducky isopods usually start breeding within a few weeks. Specifically, the female isopods start breeding at three months old. Rubber Ducky Isopods: Feeding The Rubber Ducky isopods need to have a protein and calcium-richdiet. They require all the essential nutrients to survive well in a new environment. As this species is slower-growing, you must feed them occasionally to aid their growth. You can use the following food items to feed them. Calcium Rubber Ducky isopods are naturally present in limestone caves and similar calcium-rich areas. They require a significant amount of calcium to grow and reproduce. The best calcium-rich food items you can give these isopods are the following. Cuttlebone Powdered eggshells Limestone Sea corrals Protein Protein is crucial to the breeding health of the isopods. Following are the best food options for these isopods regarding protein. Shrimp shells Insects like crickets Shrimp meal Shrimp pellets Organic yeast Leaf Litter Leaf litter is unavoidable for them. It is essential to provide them with pesticide-free leaf litter. Leaf litter is pretty affordable and easily available. You can give a lot of leaf litter to the isopods every time you feed them. The most suitable leaf options for them are as follows. Oak leaves Magnolia leaves Cannabis leaves Seed blends Adding sea almond leaves to the enclosure can help maintain a low pH in the substrate, which is beneficial for the breeding and health of rubber ducky isopods. Rubber Ducky isopods are detritivores. In other words, they are interested in eating decaying matter. So, keeping some decaying fruits, softwood, etc., in the enclosure is also advisable. Appearance and behaviour Rubber Ducky isopods are the most popular for their appearance. Their unique facial structure makes them look similar to the rubber duck toy. Their heads also have a similar yellow color, making them further identical to the real rubber ducks. They usually grow up to 1.5 cm. On the other hand, certain variants can grow up to two centimeters. They are available in shades of brown and yellow. Their body is divided into seven segments. Each segment of this isopod has a separate pair of legs. Among the multiple legs, two are for burrowing. They use these burrowing legs to dig as deep as six inches. They have two antennae on their heads. These antennas help them with navigation. On both these antennas, there are small projections called Cerci. Cerci is used as a sensory organ by these isopods. Behavior Rubber Ducky isopods are known for their calm temperament. This calm behavior is one of the primary reasons for its popularity. They don't mind interacting with other pets and animals. But keeping the small pets separate from them is advisable to avoid conflict. They usually prefer to remain in the tanks where they get enough food. So, they typically do not try to escape from the tanks. These isopods interact with humans, too.  But the human interaction may take some time. However, they interact with the keepers and other animals once comfortable with their surroundings. These isopods gradually get comfortable with their surroundings. They develop a playful temperament once they feel comfortable.  Many of these isopods even let the keepers take them in their hands and play. They usually spend several minutes in the keeper's hands. Classification Isopods are part of the subphylum Crustacea, which means they are closely related to familiar aquatic animals like crabs and lobsters. With over 10,000 species identified worldwide, isopods display an incredible variety of forms and behaviors. The rubber ducky isopod, known scientifically as Cubaris sp., is a particularly sought-after species among collectors and hobbyists. Native to Thailand, this isopod is recognized for its small size and distinctive yellow and brown coloring. Understanding the classification of isopods, especially the Cubaris sp. “Rubber Ducky,” is essential for anyone interested in their care. Knowing their origins and natural environment helps enthusiasts provide the right conditions, such as high humidity and the proper substrate, to keep these fascinating creatures healthy and thriving. Rubber Ducky Isopods: Habitat The habitat you create for a Rubber Ducky isopod must have the following features. The tank should always be warm and humid. The water should always maintain a pH level between 8.0 and 8.5. The hardness of the water inside the tank should be between 10° and 15° DH. The tanks need to have a good amount of light. You can use terrarium lights as light sources. The lights should not shine directly on the isopods. Rubber Ducky Isopods: Substrate Mix These isopods need to have a rich substrate mix. As they dig about six inches deep, you must fill the substrate mix at a good thickness in the tank. The essential things to add to the substrate mix are limestone, decaying matter, leaf litter, etc. The Isopod Enthusiast Community The world of isopod keeping has grown into a vibrant and welcoming community, bringing together people from all walks of life who share a passion for these small, intriguing animals. Isopod enthusiasts connect through online forums, social media pages, and dedicated websites, where they exchange information about the best food, habitat setups, and care techniques for different species, including the ever-popular rubber ducky isopod. Many hobbyists enjoy building thriving colonies, experimenting with substrate mixes, and maintaining the right humidity to create the perfect environment for their isopods. Local meetups and events offer opportunities to see rare species, swap tips, and even trade isopods with others. Whether you’re just starting out or have an established colony, the isopod community is a valuable resource for learning, sharing experiences, and staying up to date with the latest information in the hobby. With the support of fellow enthusiasts, anyone can enjoy the rewarding experience of caring for these unique creatures and watching their small world come to life.

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. 

Snow White isopods or Porcellio laevis are species of terrestrial crustaceans of the Isopoda order. They are known for their striking white light grey colour, which resembles the snow, hence the name 'snow-white'. Their unique and attractive aesthetics stand in contrast to their environment. Due to their striking features and aesthetics, they are more prevalent in the exotic pet and bioactive vivarium communities.  Snow White Isopods: Outline Origin: Central and South America Scientific Name: Porcellio laevis Maintenance: Low Size: 2cm to 3cm Rarity: Low Temperature:60℉ to80℉ Humidity: 55% to 75% Favourite Foods: Fruit, vegetables, fish food  Supplements: Cuttlebone (or calcium powder) Snow White Isopods: Introduction Snow White Isopods of the Crustaceans order are native to various regions, particularly Central and South America. These little creatures are diurnal. They are highly active during the daytime and are best for those studying nature and activities.  These speciesare also called clean-up crews. They keep the environment clean by feeding on decaying. Breaking down detritus and maintaining the ecosystem is one of the crucial role played by them. Like most isopod species, Snow white isopods have an insatiable appetite; thus, they consume anything. Enthusiasts appreciate this as they consume decaying plant matter, fungi, and other organic debris, thus contributing to a healthy environment. When paired with springtails, they keep the bioactive clean. Snow White Isopods: Characteristics Snow white isopod adults can be 2-3 cm long. They come in transparent white or light grey combinations resembling the colour of snow, hence the name. Their white body makes them visually appealing. Flat body with a smooth white exoskeleton. They are primarily detritivores, i.e. they get nutrition by consuming rotten plants and animals. They have a voracious appetite and eat almost everything. While consuming food, they take their food into their burrows to eat peacefully. These species are diurnal; watching them during the daytime is pretty enjoyable. They are one of the larger isopod species. Due to their large body, they try to dominate over smaller species. They must be paired with other large isopod species as they may consume tiny ones. They are easy to care for and are highly adaptable to the environment they are in. Easy to breed if kept at an optimal temperature. They can be fed anything like fruits, small fish, etc. Easy to maintain and is beginner and child-friendly. Snow White Isopods: Food and Diet Snow white isopods are detritivores in nature. People underestimate their appetite, thinking they eat little, but these creatures have a voracious appetite. Another joint mistake owners also make is overfeeding them. Overfeeding attracts fungus, gnats, mites and fruit flies. Therefore, feeding only enough food that these isopods can finish a single session is crucial. Snow White isopods are very active; therefore, they require protein and calcium at least two times a week. Cuttlebone, crushed limestone, and eggshells are fed to keep them healthy. Large-sized food like fish and pink mice is given in large colonies. Protein, calcium and vegetables- this rich diet is essential for their health. Snow White Isopods: Breeding Highly prolific in large colonies Reproduction age starts early. i.e. don't have to grow to its adult stage to reproduce Offsprings develop quickly within 7-8 months. The process involves a mechanism called 'Pouching.' Females carry their eggs in a specialised pouch until they hatch into offspring. They can produce offspring in both natural and captive environments. Snow White Isopods: Environment Care Snow white isopods share similarities with other species regarding habitat and care. They thrive in moderate to highly humid environments with proper ventilation systems. Maintaining the substrate with a humidity gradient of wet and dry areas allows them to regulate their hydration level.  Initially, for these species to get familiar with the enclosure, it is better to keep the Snow White isopods in a small container box. Once they get acquainted with the atmospheric conditions, shift them into a well-ventilated acrylic or glass container. It is essential to have cross ventilations in the enclosure to maintain the ideal temperature for the species to breed. Additionally, provide various options and substrates for them to burrow deep. Providing wide varieties of decaying organic matter like rotten whitewood, dried leaves, wood bark, sphagnum moss, etc.  High humidity inside the enclosure often invites unwanted guests like gnats, mites, fruit flies, etc. To prevent unwanted pests and fungus, pairing the species with springtails will keep the environment clean. Snow White Isopods exhibit excellent health and breeding if kept at an optimal temperature of 60° F to 80° F. Snow White Isopods: Substrate Creating an ideal substrate mix for Snow White isopods is crucial. It ensures their well-being, reproduction and overall environmental health. Their habitat has to mimic the natural environment, which includes providing a balance of moisture, organic matter and proper ventilation. The primary substrate for Snow White isopods consists of a mixture of coco peat, peat moss and organic leaf litter. The coco peat keeps the moisture in the enclosure, maintaining a humid environment, while peat moss contributes to the overall structure of the substrate. They aid in maintaining appropriate moisture levels. These two components provide a suitable habitat for the Snow White Isopods to burrow and explore.  Organic leaf litter provides food for these species and creates a natural environment. The Bark of the Oak tree and whitewood bark are commonly used as they break down slowly, providing a continuous source of nutrition. This bark also provides the isopods to hide, adding to the terrarium's aesthetics.  In addition to these primary components, adding a layer of sphagnum moss can enhance moisture retention and create a microclimate within the substrate enclosure. This is crucial for the Snow White isopods, who prefer humid environments.  Ventilation is necessary to maintain a proper balance in moisture. Regular misting helps to keep the substrate moist. Holes for ventilation are provided to prevent the enclosure from excess humidity. The substrate humidity gradient has to be in a way that it is both damp and dry.  Protein supplements are necessary for these creatures; therefore, earthworm bits are limestone mixed or calcium supplements mixed with the substrate to ensure their health. In conclusion, a well-balanced substrate mix constitutes all the above elements that support their physical health and mimic nature, thus encouraging their natural behaviour. This captive environment makes the Snow White isopods thrive in the artificial environment.

Porcellio Werneri isopod, aka Space Pods or Greek Shield isopod, is famous worldwide for its one-of-a-kind shape, colour, etc. This relatively bigger isopod is known for its mild temperaments and compatibility with many climates.  Porcellio Werneri isopods serve purposes like cleaning, aerating the soil, etc., and thus, are in high demand as terrarium pets. These egg-laying species are reasonably easy to care for. You only need a two to five-gallon big container or tank to rear a small community of Porcellio Werneri isopods effectively. A Glimpse Origin: Greece Scientific Name: Porcellio Werneri Difficulty Level: Moderate Size: Up to two centimeters Temperature: 17 to 26°C Humidity: 50 to 65% Favourite Foods: Decaying leaves, fruits, vegetables, etc. An Overview Porcellio Werneri are a relatively large, seasonally breeding isopod from Greece. These isopods are noted for their unique body shape. They are flat, round, and look very similar to a feather. This unusual-looking isopod is popularly sold worldwide as it poses only moderate difficulties to the owners. These pods feature a dark grey color that often crosses into black on significant parts of their body. The outer edge of the body features a milk-white color. These isopods are also known by names like Greek Shield, Werner's Woodlouse, Pancake isopods, etc. Porcellio Werneri requires a good amount of airflow to survive in any enclosure or habitat. Experts recommend keeping at least one-fourth of a Porcellio Werneri enclosure moist to help it stay better. They also require a heavy Calcium diet. Caregivers are expected to provide Calcium and protein supplements to these isopods regularly. Porcellio Werneri isopods exhibit seasonal breeding. So, the juveniles can only be seen during a fixed time every year. Basic Care These isopods are non-aggressive creatures that can live up to four years with proper care.   They maintain a detritivore diet. So, the caregiver should provide them with vegetables, fruits, and decaying organic matter regularly.   Caregivers can facilitate breeding among the Porcellio Werneri isopods by putting the female and male together. But as they are seasonal breeders, the possibility for breeding is limited to two times a year.   Ensure your enclosure is well sized as these isopods can be teritorial and they may fight if they are not spaced adequatley   The younger ones remain in the larvae stage for several months. They need abundant food during this phase. So, the caregiver should be prompt with the diet cycle.   Good attention should be provided to humidity-related issues that can affect the health of these isopods. Such issues are the significant reasons for fatalities among these isopods.   They need a reasonable amount of moisture content. Their natural habitats are usually by high moisture-containing river banks and stream shores. Feeding Being detritivores, these isopods have a diet that primarily consists of dead and decaying matter. They prefer dried leaf litter over fresh leaves. Some of the favorite foods of Porcellio Werneri isopods are as follows. Fruits   Vegetables   Greens   Fish foods   Decaying leaves   Rotting wood   Molting of reptiles and invertebrates It is advisable to give them protein supplements now and then to maintain their overall health. The correct frequency to provide protein supplements to greek shields is twice a week. The best protein sources for them are as follows. Fish flakes   Dried minnows   Dried shrimp Calcium is another staple element that Porcellio Werneri isopods need to have in their daily diet. There are different Calcium sources available that can provide ample amounts of Calcium. Some of them are as follows. Cuttlefish bones   Limestone   Oyster seashell   Limestone rock   Crushed eggshells Appearance and Behaviour Porcellio Werneri isopods are also known as Greek Shield isopods due to their unique appearance. They look very similar to a warrior’s armor shield. They are flat and oval-shaped.  They usually maintain a deep grey body. The grey can sometimes appear like black. At the outer edge of the body, they also have a white shade. At a single glance, the white part looks like a skirt around the Porcellio Werneri isopods’ bodies. P. Werneri isopods are relatively bigger than the other regular isopods. The adult Porcellio Werneri isopod can reach up to two centimeters. Their heads have two long antennae. The exoskeleton ofWerneri isopods is divided into seven different segments. Each segment contains a pair of small legs. The last pair of legs on the last segment of these isopods’ body is much bigger and stronger than the other legs. As far as behavior is concerned, P. Werneri isopods are barely aggressive. They are relatively mild, and the caregiver can even hand-feed them once comfortable. They usually hide from other bigger creatures. On co-existing conditions, Porcellio Werneri isopods exhibit territorial behavior. They usually do not get aggressive against other animals and show a fair amount of tolerance. Porcellio Werneri Isopods: Habitat At least 1/3rd of the enclosure should be moist for culturing Porcellio Werneri isopods.    The enclosure for P. Werneri isopods should have enough air vents, as they require high airflow to survive.    When culturing Porcellio Werneri isopods with other species, it is advisable to use enclosures with ample space. Porcellio Werneri isopod males can get very protective and territorial of their area, and having enough room inside the enclosure is thus crucial.   For starter colonies of Porcellio Werneri isopods, a 12-liter container can be enough.   For large Porcellio Werneri isopod colonies, a 25-liter container will be more than enough.   The temperature inside the enclosure should be kept between 17 and 26 degrees Celsius.    The humidity inside the enclosure should be between 50% to 65%. The enclosure should not be kept completely dry.  Substrate Mix The substrate mix for Porcellio Werneri isopods should contain an ample amount of organic matter. A combination of coconut fiber plus peat moss would suit these isopods. The substrate soil should retain moisture content for quite a while. But it should not be dripping wet, either. Along with the substrate mix, you can supplement a Porcellio Werneri isopod tank with the following elements. Cork bark   Leaf litter (pesticide-free)   Lotus seed pods   Egg crates (for hiding)

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.

Unlike most popular isopods of European origin, the Red Panda isopods originate in the Asian continent. These relatively smaller-sized isopods are gaining high popularity as pets; thus, quality red panda king isopods are in high demand these days. Red Panda Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Vietnam Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. Difficulty Level: Medium Size: Up to 1.2 centimeters Rarity: Low/ Medium Temperature: 70℉ to 80℉ Humidity: 70% to 80% Favourite Foods: Mango, Carrot An Overview Red Panda king isopods are pretty rare when compared to their counterparts. These Asian native isopods are characterized by their impressive colour combinations. They are available in multiple colour options and are ideal for kids-friendly starting pets. Being from the humid regions of Asia, they have to have a relatively high-humid enclosure. The highlight of these isopods is their fast breeding capabilities. They are ideal to be grown in both glass and plastic enclosures. Feeding a Red Panda isopod is extremely easy as they eat anything from dried leaves to decaying softwood matter and carrots to mangoes. A moderately humid atmosphere is the best for them, and avoiding exposure to extreme weather conditions is always ideal. Basic Care You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to the Red Panda isopods. Use a glass vivarium or plastic containers to house Red Panda isopods.   Keep the temperature of the container within 65 to 85 degrees.   It is crucial to maintain high humidity inside the enclosure.   You can keep the ventilation holes to a minimum to avoid humidity loss.   Avoid keeping the enclosure under direct light.   Place moss on a part of the enclosure and ensure it always has enough moisture.   Use dried leaves and softwood parts to feed the isopods.   Supply suitable calcium sources such as a clacium powder or cuttlebone.   You can also provide them with protein supplements or sprinkle eggshell powder above the isopod colony. Red Panda Isopods: Feeding The Red Panda isopods are primarily detritivores. That is, they like to consume dead and decaying matter. They also consume a wide variety of food items like leaf litter, rotting wood, etc.  They usually eat pretty voraciously. Being an active group, providing them with enough healthy supplements to maintain the best health is essential. You can use supplements of vegetables, protein, calcium, etc. One of the common mistakes that Red Panda isopod owners commit is overfeeding them. Overfeeding would be a mistake because of the highly humid conditions inside the enclosure.  Any food left in high humid conditions will quickly rot and cause mold to grow. This could spoil the balance inside the enclosure and lead to many consequences. So, feeding only enough food that the isopods can finish in a single sitting is always advisable. Red Panda isopods usually crave calcium food sources. You can use crushed limestone or eggshells to satisfy their calcium needs. Red Panda Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour Red Panda isopods generally grow up to 1.2 cm in length.   They come in bold colour combinations that create much visual contrast.   The patterns are generally found in strips. There are other patterns also.   As vibrant colours are usually not found among them, they cost much less than brighter-coloured isopods like the Rubber Ducky isopod.   They exhibit a beautiful glow on their body when they are young. As they premature, this glow disappears gradually.   As they don’t grow into giant worms, they are ideal for terrariums and as small pets.   They also make great entry-level pets for children with their easy-to-care nature and small physique. Red Panda Isopods: Habitat Red Panda isopods prefer an overly humid habitat. So, it would be ideal if you could provide them with a humid atmosphere where little to no moisture loss happens. You can use a quality plastic container the size of a shoe box to keep the Red Panda isopod for the time being. Once the isopod becomes familiar with the atmospheric conditions, you can shift it to a dedicated enclosure. But when in the container and the enclosure, ensure that the number of air ventilation holes is minimal. Many air holes might lead to a drop in the inside humidity and cause issues for the isopod. Also, providing a good amount of options for them to burrow deep is preferable. They are observed to be good burrowers. They try to retain their body moisture by burrowing and taking cover deep. So, while creating an ideal habitat for them, provide enough ground cover for them to burrow deep. An important thing to remember is that the high humidity inside the enclosure would often invite pests. So, adding some springtails into the enclosure is advisable to prevent pests. Springtails are also great at avoiding mold.  The Red Panda isopods exhibit excellent health and breed pretty quickly if you maintain a moderate temperature between 70 to 80 Fahrenheit. Red Panda Isopods: Substrate Mix Choosing the right substrate mix is essential to maintain a proper habitat for the Red Panda isopods. Being humidity-loving creatures, the substrate mix needs to be supportive of that.  A substrate mix with good water retention capabilities would be ideal for maintaining high humidity inside a Red Panda enclosure. As detritivores, they would find it helpful to have some leaf litter and softwood barks in the substrate mix. While arranging the substrate mix inside the enclosure, add it in enough depth. As mentioned before, Red Panda isopods prefer to dig extremely deep for moisture control. So, the enclosure should have enough substrate mix to support that.  Red Panda isopods also like to have as many hiding spots as possible. So, you can add items like coconut halves, cork bark, lotus pods, etc., in the substrate mix for hiding. Earthworm castings are another addition that you can consider for the substrate mix for extra nutritional qualities.  Experts recommend providing a coco coir layer at the very bottom before laying the substrate mix. At the top of the substrate, you can add a thick layer of leaf litter and softwood barks at the top of the substrate. It is generally observed that the deep burrowing of Red Panda isopods replenishes the substrate mix with all the essential nutrients.

Soil isopods were thought to belong to the cubaris family however more recently were reclassified as Troglodillo sp. They are larger species compared to other isopods. These species have a very dark colour and white antennae. Exotic pets communities love and admire their unique appearance and striking features.   Soil Isopods: Summary Origin: Vietnam Scientific Name: Cubaris/Troglodillo sp Maintenance: Low Size: 1.5 cm to 2 cm Rarity: High Temperature: 75F to 80F Humidity: 60% to 80% Supplements: Cuttlebone, calcium powder   Soil Isopods: Introduction Soil Isopods are native to Southeast Asia. Their exoskeleton is dark black-purple in colour. Due to this rare colour combination, they have got the nicknames “Gothic Isopod” and “The Black Evil”.    These critters, unlike other isopods, like to live on flat rock surfaces. Their range of activity is very small. They prefer wet and humid climates like their original habitat.    Soil Isopods: Characteristics and Behaviour Their origin is in the tropical climates of Vietnam. They are one of the largest in Cubaris sp. They grow up to 2 cm. These species are similar to Purple Giant isopods of Cubaris sp. They like wet habitats with high humidity and in shaded areas. During summers or dry days, they like to live in caves with water resources and moisture.  They are detritivores. They are less active during the summer. During rainy seasons, they spread everywhere and are highly proactive. They have a hard carapace with a dark colour and white antennae. Unlike their name, “Gothic Isopods” and “The Black Evil”, these creatures look adorable with their rubber duck faces. They are big compared to other Cubaris sp.   Soil Isopods: Feeding Soil Isopods are omnivorous. For Soil Isopods to thrive and breed, healthy community nutrition is crucial. A balanced meal of plant matter, vegetables, rotten wood, and greens will help keep the isopods healthy.   They also need protein in their diet. Therefore, meat scraps, mushrooms and other complex protein foods can help maintain their exoskeleton.    Alternate food supplements can be given once or twice a month. Calcium powder and cuttlefish bone are some of the substitutes for Soil Isopods.   Soil Isopods: Natural Habitat Soil isopods live in wet and humid conditions. These creatures are found more in shaded and humid habitats. During the summer season, their activity becomes low, and they tend to live in places where there is water source and moisture. When the season changes and it starts raining, these creatures become more active, and they spread everywhere. Therefore, it is observed that these isopods love wet and moist environments.  Soil Isopods: Care and Breeding Soil Isopods of Cubaris sp. are rare species of isopods. Breeding of isopods is a bit difficult from other isopod species. The care and maintenance tips are as follows:   An enclosure made of plastic or glass will be suitable for Soil Isopods. It is necessary to maintain the temperature of the enclosure around 75°F These creatures love humid and wet habitats. Therefore, humidity has to be on the higher end. Make sure there is no stagnation of water inside the enclosure. Soil isopods appreciate wet and humid enclosures, not waterlogged enclosures. Provide an enclosure with small ventilation to allow airflow. These isopods prefer to live in shade. Therefore, keep them in a dark, shaded area. Provide deep substrate to the enclosure. Thicker substrate helps maintain a consistent environment. Add sphagnum moss as it helps in retaining and providing moisture to the enclosed environment. Supply suitable calcium supplements once or twice a week. Add limestone to the substrate as a supplement and also to mimic the environment.   Soil Isopod: Setting of Artificial Environment To rear a Soil Isopod, it is important to mimic its natural habit. By understanding their natural habitat, we can provide that in any artificial setting.   Soil isopods are from a tropical climate with a wet and humid environment. They're found among dead and decaying organic matter. These nourish their body by consuming decaying matter.    Therefore, the enclosure for the vivarium or terrarium should mimic the atmosphere of their original habitat. Maintaining a wet and humid substrate with high temperature is crucial.    Before adding your isopods into any artificial setting, make sure they're of the same species. Mixing various species of isopods can cause clashes as it is their inherent trait to dominate other species. Therefore, it is crucial to keep them in their colonies. The Soil Isopods can tolerate extreme temperatures. But for them to breed, it is necessary to provide the optimum temperature; for the Soil Isopods to breed, temperature should be maintained around 70°F to 80°F. Make sure that this temperature is maintained, as sudden changes in temperature can affect these creatures.   Almost all isopods require warm and moist surroundings. Soil isopods like their surroundings wet and humid, i.e., they prefer high humidity. Therefore, it is necessary to keep a humidity gradient of around 75% to maintain an optimal environment. Also, add some moss to maintain the humidity in the enclosure.   Ventilation is crucial as it prevents unwanted pests from entering the enclosure. High humidity attracts mould, fruit flies, mites and gnats. Therefore, cross ventilation should be provided to prevent excess moisture accumulation.   Soil Isopod: Substrate A suitable substrate mix is necessary for the moisture-loving isopods. For Soil Isopods, the substrate has to be such that it holds moisture and water, provides a suitable base to hold moisture and digging, and is compact and resistant, unlike soil, drainage and long-lasting.  The ABG substrate mixture is ideal for Soil Isopods. The ABG substrate mix helps keep the balance of the artificial ecosystem and maintains the nutrition for the isopods. ABG substrate contains the mixture of the following:     Orchid Bark Charcoal Tree Fern Fibre Peat Moss   This substrate mix is suitable for the Soil isopods. This mix helps them to mimic their natural environment.    Additionally, to make their environment more realistic to their natural settings, provide dried leaves and rotting wood into their enclosure. Also, add powdered limestone to the substrate. These provide food for the isopods and also a place for them to bring out their natural character of gathering and hiding.   In conclusion, a well-balanced substrate mix helps them to thrive and breed. The Soil Isopods are extremely rare and are hard to breed. But they need to be kept under observation. Adding water to the substrate when needed and keeping in check with their diet and nutrition should keep them healthy and happy.