All Isopods (173)

Little Sea Isopods, also known as Cubaris murina, is often referred to as entry-level cubaris species. These species don't have any distinct colour or markings, but they are the best bioactive custodians of their genus. They are a natural fit for the terrariums and vivariums.   Little Sea Isopods: 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 Little Sea Isopods: Abstract The Little Sea isopods adapt to various environments. These isopods are mainly found in the Pacific region, the Caribbean area, and North America. The scientific name "Cubaris murina" is derived from the Latin name "cube," which means "to lie," and "marina," representing a group of mollusks. This name is due to the fact that they are mistaken as little sea creatures and also because of their smooth, small bodies.  Little Sea Isopods: 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.  Little Sea 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. Little Sea 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. Little Sea Isopods: 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. Little Sea Isopods: 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. Little Sea 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.  Little Sea Isopods: 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. Little Sea Isopods: Basic Care Proper care must be provided to culture and maintain the Little Sea 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.  

Rainbow Mix Powdered isopods are an amazing collection of colour morphs from the popular Porcellionides pruinosus species, a living rainbow in your bioactive enclosure. This curated mix shows the incredible diversity of this species, with Powder Orange, Powder Blue, White Out and other colour variations. Perfect for beginners and experienced keepers alike, these hardy isopods bring function and beauty to any terrarium or vivarium. Info Origin: Mediterranean Region (Cultured Morphs) Scientific Name: Porcellionides pruinosus (Mixed Morphs) Maintenance: Easy Temp Range: 70℉ - 80℉ (21℃ - 27℃) Size: ~ 1.0 cm Rarity: Low (Individual morphs vary) Humidity: 50% - 70% (moderate to high) Diet: Leaf litter, vegetables, fish food, decaying matter Supplements: Fish flakes, cuttlebone, calcium powder Rainbow Mix Powdered Isopods: Introduction These isopods are the ultimate Porcellionides pruinosus breeding, multiple colour morphs in one mix. Originally from the Mediterranean region, these cultured morphs have been selected to preserve the colour variations. The Rainbow Mix includes Powder Orange with their warm orange hues, Powder Blue with their metallic blue-grey tones, White Out with their pale colouration and potentially other morphs. What makes this mix special is the opportunity to see multiple colour expressions in the same species, a dynamic and changing display as the morphs interact and breed. These isopods are known for their hardiness, fast reproduction and great performance as bioactive cleanup crew, perfect for anyone to have a thriving colourful isopod colony. Rainbow Mix Powdered Isopods Multiple colour morphs in one mix Signature "powdery" texture Compact size ~ 1.0 cm Hardy and adaptable* Fast movement and active behaviour Prolific breeding and large broods Great bioactive cleanup crew performance Beginner friendly with forgiving care Fast escape artists, need secure enclosures Active day and night during feeding Feeding Rainbow Mix Powdered Isopods Rainbow Mix Powdered isopods are hungry and love to eat. They are great cleanup crews. Provide a base diet of high quality leaf litter, oak, beech and other pesticide free varieties. They will eat almost any organic matter making them very effective at terrarium maintenance. Supplement with small amounts of fresh vegetables like carrots, zucchini, spinach and sweet potatoes. They love protein rich foods like high quality fish flakes, dried shrimp and isopod diets. Feed 2-3 times a week but only provide what can be consumed in 24 hours to prevent spoilage. Calcium supplementation through cuttlebone, crushed eggshells or calcium powder is essential for healthy moulting and reproduction. With their big appetite they will process organic waste quickly and maintain optimal enclosure conditions while supporting rapid population growth. Natural Habitat Porcellionides pruinosus are native to the warm and humid Mediterranean region where they thrive in environments rich in decomposing organic matter. In the wild they live under logs, stones and leaf litter, in areas with consistent moisture but good drainage. Their natural habitat is the template for successful captive care, with areas of varying moisture levels and plenty of organic matter to feed. These isopods are very resilient and can survive in different microhabitats from forest floors to gardens and compost areas which is why they are so adaptable in captivity. Artificial Habitat for Rainbow Mix Powdered Isopods Create an optimal environment with a secure, well ventilated enclosure with multiple small ventilation holes

Unlike most other European isopods, the Cubaris Cappuccino isopods originate in Southeast Asia. These fascinating isopods are becoming very popular for their unique coloration; thus, quality Cappuccino isopods are some of the most in-demand Cubaris species right now. Cappuccino isopods make great pets and cleaners. They live in high-humidity environments. Theymake low-maintenance pets. Theyhave a whole world of behaviors and interactions. A Glimpse Origin: Thailand   Scientific Name: Cubaris   Difficulty Level: Medium   Size: Up to 2.5 Centimeters   Rarity: High   Temperature: 75 degrees Fahrenheit to 85 degrees Fahrenheit   Humidity: 70 Percent to 80 Percent   Favorite Foods: Leaf Litter, Wood   An Overview Cubaris Cappuccino isopods are rare isopods when compared to others. These Southeast Asian isopods have characterized by their unique colors and rounded bodies.They have light brown to tan bodies. They are kid-friendly and low-maintenance pets. As Cappuccino isopods come from the humid region of Southeast Asia, they will thrive in a high-humidity enclosure. The best thing about these isopods is that they possess great cleaning abilities. They can be a perfect addition to any vivarium. They are closely related to the pill bug. This comparatively small isopod has a unique coloration pattern that will remind you of a cup of cappuccino. They are unique and fascinating invertebrate species.  Cappuccino isopods are easy to keep. They make the best clean-up crew member in any enclosure. They do not need any kind of special care.  These isopods are quite resilient to changes in humidity and temperature. They are generally found in moist environments. They were first accidentally introduced to the pet trade by Thai farmers. They are gentle. Cappuccino isopods are docile creatures. You don’t have to be frightened by them. These isopods help in nutrient recycling within an enclosure. They are nocturnal. They feed at night. They love feeding on decomposing matter and leaf litter.  Basic Care You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to the Cappuccino isopods. Use peat moss or coconut fiber as substrate materials for your cappuccino isopod.   Keep the temperature of the container within 68°F and 77°F.   Maintain the humidity levels between 70% to 80%.    Avoid keeping the enclosure under direct light. Feeding Cappuccino isopods are primarily detritivores. These isopods love to consume fish flakes, leaf litter, wood chips, etc. Cappuccino isopods can feed on both decaying animals and plants. They are fond of rotten logs. They also consume animal droppings of insects.  These isopods consume decomposing foods and vegetables.They feed on live mosses and cuttlebone as well. Cuttlebone is rich in calcium and minerals. It makes a budget-friendly alternative of calcium carbonate. It is about 85 percent calcium. It is an ideal way of increasing your isopod’s calcium levels. Cappuccino isopods need proper nutrition. Good nutrition will help these isopods thrive in varied environments and settings. It will help them self-regulate and reproduce well. It helps them breed faster and promote a healthy population. It is really worthy supplementing their diets with nutritious food whenever possible. Owners can supplement Cappuccino isopods’ diet with dog food and fish flakes. Their diet should also include as many fruits, vegetables, and protein-rich food as possible. You can feed them food whenever their food source runs out. However, avoid overfeeding them in any case. Also, make sure the food items do not have any remaining pesticide residue. Cappuccino isopods need calcium to ensure proper development. You can use calcium supplements like calcium carbonate powder to their substrate. You can even use decaying organic matter such as wood debris, leaf litter, etc.  Cappuccino Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour Cappuccino isopods create burrows to feel secure.This is why their substrate mix should be deep enough to promote this behavior.   These isopods mainly grow in humid conditions. Keep a temperature between 20-25°C to help them thrive.   These isopods are active creatures during night. You need tokeep them safely in terrarium that is designed specifically for this behavior.    These isopods are very low-maintenance. You won’t have to spend a lot of time taking care of them.   Cappuccino Isopods: Habitat Cappuccino isopods prefer humid environments with plenty of hiding places. You can use a quality plastic container to store the  Cubaris Cappuccino isopods. Make sure there are not many air holes as it can drop the humidity levels inside the enclosure. It is observed that cappuccino isopods are good burrowers. The natural habitat of Cappuccino isopods is composed of leaf litter and damp soil.  These isopods tend to enjoy living in moist areas. They prefer environments that are the perfect choice for their scavenging activities. Cappuccino isopods like a highly humid enclosure with fair ventilation and a moderate temperature. A vivarium or terrarium setup with many inlets and outlets makes the right breeding choice for these isopods. Their enclosure should be partly dry and partly wet. This will allow them to self-regulate. The enclosure should also have a sufficient amount of limestones as it makes a rich source of calcium. Calcium is very beneficial for these beautiful creatures. Cappuccino Isopods: Substrate Mix The substrate for Cubaris Cappuccino isopods should be a dynamic mix of milled sphagnum peat moss, long-fiber sphagnum moss, fine tree fern fiber, willow oak leaf litter, and orchid bark. The mix should be well-moistened. Don’t make it excessively wet. This might drown the isopods. You can also use a spray bottle to mist the substrate every few days to retain moisture within the enclosure.   Cubaris Cappuccino Isopods require moist substrate to survive and reproduce. Make sure you add a layer of sphagnum moss to help them maintain healthy isopod colonies.  Choosing the best substrate mix is important to maintain proper habitat of Cappuccino isopods. The humidity-loving creatures need a substrate mix with good water retention capabilities. As detritivores, they need leaf litter and live moss in order to thrive.  While arranging the substrate mix, make sure you add a good level of depth. This is an important step as Cappuccino isopods like to dig extremely deep for moisture control.

Despite the 10,000 species already existing, not even two are familiar, which makes them even more fascinating for keepers and hobbyists to value. Ember Bee Isopods is one such exotic species you can own as a pet. These crustaceans are from Vietnam and are found in highly humid areas, an essential aspect of their natural habitat. But before you get your hands on them, you have a few things to learn that we have covered in the lines below. Ember Bee Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Vietnam Scientific Name: Merulanella sp. Rarity: Not rare Difficulty: Moderate Temperature: 22-26°C Size: Up to 2 cm Humidity: High Favorable Foods: Fruits, greens, veggies, forest moss, decaying leaves, lichen, rotting white wood, kinship. An Overview Ember Bee Isopods are popular for the stunning patterns on their bodies, which feature a combination of colors like yellow, red, orange, and black. Each boasts a different color pattern and can grow up to 2 cm long, making them bigger than other isopods. Their vivid coloration attracts the keepers, and one thing which is not found in any isopod is that they wander and explore the environment during day and night.  As for humidity, Ember Bee isopods live in humid areas, where temperature doesn’t fluctuate much and is between 22 and 26°C. Ember Bee Isopods: Basic Care Taking their proper care will do the needful for their health. Some tips that will help you get through their care are shared below.  Their preferred temperature in which they thrive the most is between 22 and 26°C.  Very uncommon to found in any species, they prefer high humidity from 60% to 75%, as this will keep them moist and prevent them from oversaturating. Provide airflow so no mold or bacteria can grow inside the enclosure and harm your isopods. Use a secure, escape-proof terrarium, as these isopods, mainly the younger ones, can easily climb vertical surfaces and escape the enclosure. Feeding Their diet is not strict and they eat a lot of thing, making it easier for you to easily avail them including leaf litter, fruits, vegetables, kinship, and more. You can provide these items and a few supplements like cuttlebone or limestone to make their diet healthier and more nutritious. Since they eat a lot, you will need a constant supply of decomposing leaves, a large portion of their appetite. Add dried shrimp or fish flakes for protein supplements, as they are good for reproduction and health. Ember Bee Isopods: Appearance & Behaviour Their peculiar color combination of bright orange and yellow stripes helps them camouflage, protecting them against predators.  Ember Bee isopods are active both at sunrise and sunset, roaming through the terrarium.   They hang in groups given to their social nature characteristic and engage in activities like foraging and grooming. Ember Bee Isopods: Habitat Ember Bee Isopods cannot survive outside a habitat that doesn’t match their natural environment. You must create a similar setup where they get the right humidity and temperature and live without discomfort. Maintain a moist environment so your isopods can always be happy and healthy. They also need hiding spots to seek shelter and rest when not active. Also, add vertical elements like branches or bark pieces so that they can practice climbing, an important character trait. Substrate Mix You can create a substrate mix by mixing coconut coir and organic soil, two of the best materials for retaining moisture. After the base layer is ready, add leaf Litter so your isopods have a continuous food source to munch on. To make the enclosure better, you can add sphagnum moss, which can also retain moisture well. Also, include pieces of rotting wood so your isopods have foraging material ready.

Zebra Isopods (Armadillidium maculatum) are the most commonly sought-after isopods. For most people, zebras are the first isopod they purchase as an aspiring hobbyist and breeder. They have a striking colour and can be line-bred/isolated to produce better stripes on them.   Zebra Isopods: Insight Place of Origin: France Scientific Name: Armadillidium maculatum Environment: Semi-arid Ideal Temperature: 75℉-80℉ Breeding Difficulty: Intermediate General Size: 1.8 cm Rareness: Low Humidity Range: 70%-80% Diet: soft-boiled plants, fish food, moss Supplements: calcium powder   Zebra Isopods: Abstract These are some of the isopods that pet lovers keep for aesthetics, more than just a cleanup tool in terrariums and vivariums. They have striking black and white stripes on their exoskeleton, which helps to ward off predators in the wild. Though they are from the family of common pill bugs, their distinctive features stood out. These beautiful species are native to the arid regions of the Mediterranean and Southern France.    Zebra Isopods: Special Characteristics They have distinct black and white stripes, which resemble the pattern of zebras.  They have smooth, domed, and tough exteriors. These roly polys grow up to 1.8 cm. Their antennae are shorter compared to other isopod species.  These species prefer moderate to high ventilation.  They are from the deciduous forests of the Mediterranean and French regions. When threatened, these isopods roll into a ball. Resilient and easy to maintain.  They are active and not too shy once they establish and settle in.  These isopods make the best choice for beginners. They are widely popular isopods and are budget-friendly.    Zebra Isopods: Morphs Zebra Isopods are commonly seen in black and white stripes. However, there are various morphs developed by breeders. Some of them are:- Yellow Zebra Isopods: They have yellow and black stripes. Chocolate Zebra Isopods: Has white stripes with a dark brown base colour. Dalmatian Zebra Isopods: Also known as high white isopods. They have a predominantly white color with black spots.  Spotted Zebra Isopods: They have white spots instead of stripes.    Zebra Isopods: Artificial Enclosure There are several factors to consider for an ideal enclosure of Zebra Isopods. These isopods require a large container to accommodate their needs. Though the size may vary depending on the colony, it is always better to opt for bigger enclosure boxes for them to breed and thrive.    It is essential to provide ventilation to the enclosure for good airflow and humidity maintenance. Choosing a container with ventilation outlets covered with mesh will be suitable for the Zebra Isopods. For those who prefer DIY, drilling holes in the container's sides will also help provide the necessary ventilation.    These holes should be strategically placed to facilitate cross-ventilation while minimizing escape risk. While zebra isopods may not possess exceptional climbing abilities, covering any ventilation openings with a fine mesh is still advisable to prevent them from escaping. This precautionary measure ensures the safety of the isopods within their enclosure.   Zebra Isopods: Substrate The right substrate mix helps to provide an optimal environment for the isopods. A classic choice for substrate mix is the ABG Mix, which offers the perfect base for the isopod setting.    In addition to the mix, the coir of coconut works as an excellent material to retain moisture. This will help make the same environment as their original environment. Coconut coir and sphagnum moss are very loose materials, which will help them burrow inside as they do in their natural environment.   Leaf litter is the primary food source and provides hiding spaces for isopods. They contribute to the nutrient cycle within the enclosure of the isopods.    The discharge from the earthworms is a rich source of organic matter, and it contains microorganisms. It provides valuable nutrients for the isopods. This addition promotes soil fertility and helps sustain a thriving ecosystem within the enclosure.    Zebra Isopods prefer arid temperatures with less humidity. While maintaining overall high humidity, providing a drier section within the habitat allows the isopods to choose their preferred microclimate. When misting, make sure to mist on a small area, leaving the rest of the container dry.    Zebra Isopods: Tips to Care Zebra isopods require a less humid environment but not a dry and deserted environment. Therefore, it is essential to provide the necessary moisture for hydration.  Provide a lot of hiding spots within the enclosure for the isopods to form their colonies. Adding wooden bark, dried leaves, and stones to the enclosure helps to mimic their natural environment and acts as hiding spots. It is important to maintain the temperature range of the enclosure. Extreme temperature fluctuations can be stressful for the isopods.  Regular maintenance is crucial to keep the enclosure clean. Make sure to remove excess uneaten food, molting, and any mold to keep a healthy environment.  An overcrowded isopod enclosure may lead to competition for resources. Therefore, it is important to maintain the number in an enclosure. If the isopod population is increasing, relocate to a bigger enclosure or provide a separate enclosure for the new colonies.    Zebra Isopods: Temperature and Humidity Zebra Isopods prefer a slightly warm temperature of 75℉ to 80℉. It is crucial to maintain the temperature. During winter, it is ideal to provide heating mats to the enclosure to maintain the optimal temperature.    It can be difficult to maintain a balance between humidity levels, particularly when ventilation and a dry region are required inside the enclosure. Excessively high humidity levels should be avoided, even if some moisture is required, especially to support the isopods' hydration and maintain a healthy substrate.    Zebra Isopods: Food and Diet Feeding them with the right food and having a perfect mix of supplements will help make them remain healthy. It also ensures that they are reproducing healthy offspring.   The container in which they are kept should be supplied with a large amount of decaying organic materials, which will help them get the necessary nutrients. In addition, litters of leaf or bark of the wood can also be fed as part of the feeding cycle. Other supplements include:-   Flakes of Fish Food: It is an easy supplement and contains high amounts of protein. Pieces of Vegetables: A portion of the vegetable or the remains from vegetable cutting in small amounts can be supplied. It has to be ensured that it should not be supplied in large quantities. Food specially made for the Isopods: Specially designed food always has the best mix of nutrients, which will make them remain healthy and give a longer life span.  

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.

Porcellio hoffmannseggi, or the Titan Isopods, are one of the most enormous terrestrial creatures. These are huge compared to other Porcellio genus creatures. These creatures live in dry and less humid environments. Their huge size and features make them unique from other isopods. Due to this, Porcellio Hoffmannseggii is widely sought after and appreciated among isopod enthusiasts. Summary Origin: Spain Common Name: Titan Isopods Maintenance: Medium Temperature: 65℉ - 90℉ Size: 4 cm Rarity: Low to Medium Humidity: 30% to 50% Diet: Fruit, vegetables, dried leaves, fish food Supplements: Cuttlebone or calcium carbonate Porcellio hoffmannseggii orange Isopods: Abstract The Titan Isopods (Porcellio hoffmannseggi) are one of the largest terrestrial isopod species, admired for their impressive size and hardy nature. Known for their distinctive appearance and ability to thrive in drier environments, they are a favorite among isopod enthusiasts. These isopods are ideal for more advanced hobbyists due to their territorial behavior and specific care requirements. Their size and unique characteristics make them a standout addition to any bioactive enclosure Porcellio Hoffmannseggii Isopods: Morphs Though these hoffmannseggii isopods have regular grey exoskeletons, they can still produce offspring in different colours due to genetics. The types of isopods based on colour are: Porcellio hoffmannseggii (Black):- The commonly known isopod colour. Porcellio hoffmannseggii (Brown):- The chocolate morph is its light colouration. Porcellio Hoffmannseggii (White):- The rarest colour among the above. They're completely white in colour. Porcellio hoffmannseggii Isopods: Traits They are one of the largest terrestrial isopods and grow to 4 cm. They prefer dry and less humid conditions with a lot of ventilation. These species are very territorial in nature and chase off other males. They are detritivores in nature, and they prefer decaying hardwood over leaves. They have a hard carapace, with a dark hue and white colour on the skirts. Compared to other isopods, they are not beginner-friendly, as these species are not tolerant to extreme temperatures. The young offspring form their own colony once they breed and produce their offspring. They need a protein-rich and nutritious diet. Nutrition Titan isopods feed on almost all types of food. Primarily, they are detritivores and feed on dead organic matter. But when breeding in an enclosure, providing a balanced nutritional diet is crucial. Unlike other isopods, these critters prefer rotten wood rather than leaves. Vegetables and greens can be included in their diet, along with their primary food. These isopods require a lot of protein and calcium in their diet, especially during mating season. 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 hoffmannseggiis. These isopods may look huge, but they consume little. Feeding should be limited to enough to finish in a single sitting, ensuring optimal nutrition without unnecessary excess. Porcellio hoffmannseggii Isopods: Breeding and Offsprings Male and female Porcellio Hoffmannseggii can be easily distinguished by the length of their tails, which are also known as uropods. If the temperature and humidity of the enclosure are stable, they will produce quickly and easily with average brood size. After the offspring are hatched, the mothers protect their offspring for the first two moltings. When breeding these isopods, it is crucial to divide the colonies as they are territorial in nature. Porcellio hoffmannseggii Isopods: Artificial Habitat Setting Porcellio hoffmannseggii isopods from the Mediterranean area prefer less moisture with good ventilation. The common mistake made by owners of these isopods is providing a dry, moisture-free enclosure. Lack of moisture will make isopods perish; therefore, it is crucial to offer a steep moisture gradient in the enclosure. Porcellio hoffmannseggii isopods thrive in dry and humid environments. Maintaining the substrate with wet and dry areas allows them to regulate their hydration level. For these isopods to get familiar with artificial enclosure, it is better to keep the Porcellio hoffmannseggii isopods in a small container. Acclimatise to the atmospheric conditions before moving them into a well-ventilated plastic container. They need a big container and a lot of cross-ventilation in the enclosure. Additionally, it provides a lot of options and substrates for these critters to burrow deep and hide. Provide the species with a wide range of materials such as dead wood, dried leaves, sphagnum moss, etc and hardwood pieces for the species to hide and form colonies. These isopods don't tolerate high humidity and extreme temperatures. It is important to maintain a stable temperature of 70℉ and humidity of the enclosure around 30%. Porcellio Hoffmannseggii Isopods: Substrate Mix The moisture-retaining substrate mix for hoffmannseggii isopods should be deep. These animals live around the cliffside in Spain; hence, it is important to create an environment that mimics their natural habitat. A 15L standard-sized large enclosure is needed. However, having a larger plastic enclosure with enough outlets for ventilation is always ideal. A combination of coco coir, hardwood leaves and sphagnum moss will form the base. The substrate mix has to be five centimetres in depth. Porcellio Hoffmannseggii are fond of burrowing, which makes it quite good for them. Adding a few rotten hardwoods makes a perfect home for isopods with their babies inside. The elements, such as wooden bark and dried leaves, create a closer look to their natural environment. The wooden bark is preferred because it decays slowly over time, supplying continuous nutrition. This bark gives cover to the isopods, thereby enhancing the terrarium's appearance. Apart from these basic components, adding a small patch of sphagnum moss will increase moisture retention and preserve the terrarium's microenvironment. This is very important for the Porcellio Hoffmannseggii isopods to get moisture. Ventilation is needed to sustain a healthy balance within the enclosure. Holes are made for ventilation to avoid excess humidity in the enclosure. The substrate's humidity gradient should be set to ¼ area moist and the rest of its size dry. Cuttlebone or calcium supplements are added to the substrate, and these creatures need a lot of protein. A proper balance of these elements helps with the physical health and breeding of Porcellio hoffmannseggii. This captive environment makes the Titan Isopods flourish in this artificial one.  

Native to Spain, marbelized isopods are comparatively easier to find than other isopods from the same region.. They are considered a brilliant display species for the vivarium/ enclosures.  A Glimpse Origin: Spain  Scientific Name: Armadillidium Espanyoli Difficulty Level: Medium Size: 0.8CM. Rarity: Medium Temperature: 68-83F Humidity: 50-70%   Favourite Foods: Leaf litter, cuttlebone, pollen, etc.  An Overview Armadillidium ‘Marbelized’ Isopods are named that way due to the colouration in their bodies. Their country of origin is Spain. The body pattern of marbelized isopods is unique in the sense that they have a white pattern across their bodies. This pattern has the texture of a marble. Hence, they are called 'Marbelized’ isopods.   The white colouration found in their bodies makes Marbelized isopods stand apart from other Armadillidium species. The colouration makes them more unique in appearance and qualifies them as an attractive species for enclosures. But the importance of Marbelized isopods is not just from the aesthetic perspective. They are also identified as having a functional nature. They can very well be the janitors inside the vivarium.  Marbelized isopods feed on a variety of food items. Like many other Armadillidium isopods, they can consume a variety of leaves, hardwood, etc. Vegetables can be provided separately. For protein balance in their diet, cuttlebone, and different types of pollen can be fed.   Armadillidium espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods: Basic Care Several instructions are explained by experts for the best care for Armadillidium espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods. Espanyoli Isopods require an environment with high humidity.  They require dry and damp parts within the same enclosure. The ratio is believed to be 60/40.  They only require moderately wet atmospheres as it is unviable for them.  Marbelized isopods are recognized to start their breeding relatively slowly.  Separate culturing and introducing them to the terrariums/vivariums are highly advised. These isopods require little ventilation to go about their functions.  Cork Bark is considered a perfect burrowing space for these species of Armadillidum isopods.  They prefer to feed on- hardwood, leaf litter, vegetables, cuttlebone, pollen, etc.  A room temperature of 68-83⁰F is the ideal environment for them to thrive.  Humidity levels have to be maintained at 50-70%. Armadillidium Espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods: Feeding Armadillidium marbelized Isopods are also considered detritivores. This means that they can consume many forms of food supplements for their ideal growth. Some of the main items on their menu include leaf litter, pollen, vegetables, hardwood, etc.  Like many other Armadillidium species of isopods, hardwood and different types of leaves form the basic food mixture for these isopods. Leftover vegetable scraps from the kitchen can be utilized as additional supplements for their diet. Dried vegetable scraps should be given, as moisture in vegetables can cause mold development, which is harmful to their growth.   Marbelized isopods, too, prefer sufficient protein intake to supplement their growth. In the protein-rich category, they can consume different types of pollen and cuttlebone as part of their diet. Fiber sources for their consumption include leaf litter, hardwood, etc. Almost all vegetables can be provided to supplement their growth. The only point is that they should be dried.  Armadillidium Espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour Armadillidium Espanyoli has a hard exoskeleton. Their bodies are highly calcified. They are well known for the white ‘marblesque’ colouration in their body. The only colour they are found in is white. They are one of the smallest isopod species and grow to a maximum of 0.8 Cm. The country of origin of Armadillidium Marbelized isopods is Spain.  The burrowing pattern followed by these isopods makes them relatively safer for vivariums.  They require both moist and dry parts within the enclosures. In the vivarium, a 60/40 ratio must be maintained.  They are recognized as fast breeders once they are established. But their establishment requires some time. The gestation period is considered to be around 60 days. This is longer than most other Armadillidium species. Armadillidium Espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods: Habitat Any species of isopods' survival, whether in their natural habitat or a vivarium, requires ideal environments. For collectors, Marbelized isopods provide them with both aesthetical and functional uses. Many experts put forward many suggestions for maintaining their colouration and patterns.  68-83⁰F is the ideal temperature for Armadillidium Espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods. They tend to survive better in a humid environment. Keeping the optimal temperature within the vivarium is crucial for their development. Experts suggest using temperatures at regular intervals to check the level of humidity and temperature.   Marbelized isopods require a longer gestation period. Experts suggest that it might take up to 60 days for them to develop fully. Hence, patients are required to get the full benefits of these display isopods. They make for brilliant display species and are highly preferred by collectors across the globe. Glass enclosures are considered the best way to display these isopods.  The size of the container is free for the choice of the collector. Espanyoli isopods are a very small species of isopods. Hence, containers with too much size may not be ideal. Ventilation is another crucial aspect of these isopods. Unlike many other species of isopods, they require little ventilation for survival. These isopods also function well with dry sides within the vivariums.   Armadillidium Espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods: Substrate Mix Substrates are components that can provide the essential supplements and maintain the optimal environment within an enclosure. It is a mixture of ideal substances that can help an organism grow exponentially well. Isopods are always taken out of their natural habitats. Hence, providing them the best environment possible is an aspect every collector should be responsible about. Substrates help them achieve that.  Armadillidium espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods require a substrate mixture that maintains damp and dry parts. Experts suggest that the ratio should be 60/40 within the enclosure. Leaves are the easiest form of substrate that can be provided for Marbelized isopods. Hard wood and cork bark are also considered as part of the substrate. Cork barks can act as the ideal hiding spots for these isopods.  Armadillidium espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods does not prefer to climb out of their habitats. They tend to stay within their enclosures and hide in cork barks. Providing them these artificial hiding spots is an important aspect that has to be noted by all collectors.  Maintaining wet areas here and there within the enclosure is also important to take the best care of these isopods. Generally, these isopods prefer to survive in dry areas. Too much moisture can hamper their growth or could be fatal for them.   

Murina Papaya Isopods also known as cubaris Murina is often referred to as entry-level cubaris species. These species don't have any distinct colour or markings, but they are the best bioactive custodians of their genus. They are a natural fit for the terrariums and vivariums.   Cubaris Murina: 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 These isopods adapt to various environments. These isopods are mainly found in the Pacific region, the Caribbean area, and North America. The scientific name "Cubaris murina" is derived from the Latin name "cube," which means "to lie," and "marina," representing a group of mollusks. This name is due to the fact that they are mistaken as little sea creatures and also because of their smooth, small bodies.  Characteristics Papaya isopods have 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.  Little Sea 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 Papaya 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 Papaya Isopods: 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 Papaya 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 papaya 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 Papaya Isopods: 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.  

Thai Blue Angels are a particular isopod species native to Thailand. It is primarily found in the country’s lush environments and thrives in humid habitats. Whether you are a seasoned isopod keeper or a curious newcomer, it is important to understand the care requirements of these creatures before they arrive at your home. Thai Blue Angel Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Thailand Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. Difficulty Level: Moderate/Easy Size: 12-20 mm Rarity: Moderately rare Temperature: 24°C to 28°C Humidity: 55-70% Favourite Foods: Fish food, fruits, greens, veggies, greens, rotting white wood, green moss, kinshi, lichen, decaying leaves, and moulting of reptiles and invertebrates Thai Blue Angel Isopods: An Overview Scientifically known as Cubaris sp, Thai Blue Angel isopods have become popular exotic pets because they are an uncommon species of terrestrial crustaceans. Belonging to the genus family, this species is often regarded as attractive for its portable size, striking appearance, and behaviour. As many might not know, this isopod species is native to the rainforests of Thailand. They live in high-humidity environments and need to be kept in bioactive vivariums and terrariums. The unique colour combination of blue and white sets them apart from other isopods. Their roly-poly behaviour, when disturbed, makes them a favourite among collectors and hobbyists. Unlike other isopods, Thai Blue Angel requires little care, making it ideal for beginners. Thai Blue Angel Isopods: Basic Care To take care of Thai Blue Angels, creating a similar environment to their natural habitat is important. Since they come from tropical regions, it is essential to maintain the right temperature and humidity levels. This way, you can keep your isopods happy and healthy. Here’s what you need to do: You can use a plastic container or glass terrarium as an enclosure. However, make sure that it has proper ventilation and moisture. It is important to maintain the temperature between 24°C and 28°C. As for the humidity level, anything between 55% and 70% is fine. You can mist the enclosure regularly to maintain these conditions. Since isopods love hiding spots, you should add plenty of leaf litter, bark, and small caves to their enclosure. Preparing a moist substrate for Thai Blue Angel is important. In this case, coconut fibre mixed with organic soil works best. Thai Blue Angel Isopods: Feeding The good thing about Thai Blue Angel isopods is that they are not fussy eaters. However, providing them with a balanced diet is important to keep them healthy. In their natural habitat, they consume a lot of decaying organic material. This makes it easier to supplement their diet with various food sources when captivity. One of the most essential components of their diet is leaf litter because it mimics their natural food source. It is recommended that they be given oak and maple leaves, as they are their favourites. You should also provide small amounts of vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and squash, which are great sources of hydration and nutrients. For fibre, you can provide soft, decayed wood from non-toxic trees. You can give them a small piece of cuttlebone to meet their calcium requirements. This is essential to maintain their exoskeleton. Lastly, you can feed them protein-rich foods like fish flakes or dried shrimp for protein. Providing these food items can help your isopods maintain a balanced diet. Just make sure to feed them in small amounts. Thai Blue Angel Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour Thai Blue Angel isopods are visually striking creatures, mainly because of their blue and white colour combination. They also have white or cream-coloured bands across their bodies. Their segmented exoskeleton allows them to curl into a tight ball when threatened, a behaviour known as conglobation. The size of an adult Thai Blue Angel ranges between 12 and 20 mm, which make them relatively smaller than other Cubaris species. These isopods are generally shy and prefer to stay hidden during the day. They come during the evening or at night to feed and explore. They are non-aggressive and move slowly, making it easier to care for them. Thai Blue Angel isopods are known for their social behaviour. They often huddle together in groups, especially when hiding under leaf litter or bark. Thai Blue Angel Isopods: Habitat If you plan to keep Thai Blue Angel isopods as pets, it is important to create a suitable habitat for them. To do this, you need to replicate their natural habitat. Since these isopods come from Thailand’s humid rainforests, it is important to maintain the humidity level between 55% and 70%. You can achieve this by regularly misting their enclosure. The temperature should be between 24°C and 28°C. In winter, a heat source, like a heat mat, can be added if necessary. As mentioned before, you must create hiding spots for your isopods. You can include pieces of bark, rocks, and small shelters for this. This will make your isopods more secure as they will have plenty of hiding places. Last, it would help if you scattered leaf litter and moss around the enclosure to create a natural, forest-like floor. This provides additional food and moisture. Thai Blue Angel Isopods: Substrate Mix The substrate is one of the most critical elements of an isopod habitat. It is the foundation for them to burrow, feed, and reproduce. You should prepare a moist and nutrient-rich substrate for Thai Blue Angel isopods. You can use coconut fibre or coir as the base. These materials better retain moisture and are soft enough for isopods to burrow into. You will also need organic and pesticide-free soil to add essential nutrients to the substrate. Small pieces of decayed wood should be added as an additional food source. Adding a layer of leaf litter can also provide food and create a more natural environment for the isopods.

Though the world of isopods is filled with various species, something about Milky Way Isopods makes them captivating keepers and hobbyists. One outstanding feature that makes them adored by isopod lovers is their speckled exoskeleton, which imitates a starry night sky. It is nothing less than an illusion that makes you keep admiring them. Other than that, Milky Way Isopods are easy to maintain and involve no hassles like some other species do. If you are a beginner, you will find them easy to handle. A Glimpse Origin: UK (Jennifer Gosling) Scientific Name: Armadillidium gestroi Difficulty: Easy Temperature: Around 20°C Rarity: Not rare Size: Up to 1.5 inches Humidity: High Favourable Foods: Vegetable scraps, leaf litter, rotten hardwoods, cuttlebone, eggshells, oyster shells. An Overview Milky Way Isopods are land-dwelling isopods which were first successfully isolated and developed by Jennifer Gosling in the UK. But you can now find them in other regions due to trading among keepers. These isopods are exotic because of their coloration and patterns, which are hard to find in other species. Their speckled exoskeleton makes them look attractive and appealing to keepers. Belonging to the Armadillidiidae family, this species is known precisely for its unique self-defense mechanism called conglobation. A mechanism allows them to curve into a ball to keep themselves from attacking their soft bellies. They usually do this in the wild, but you can also see this behavior in captivity if they are threatened. Compared to other isopods, Milky Way Isopods are much bigger. They grow up to 1.5 inches long and can easily adapt to captive environments. Basic Care You cannot expect your isopods to live healthily unless you take care of them properly. Here are the key aspects of their care: Use a large container with enough space for your isopods to roam freely and build a colony when they breed. You can use plastic or glass terrariums; the choice is yours. To thrive without correct humidity and temperature is almost impossible for them, making it crucial for you that levels don’t fluctuate much; otherwise, it can cause problems. Milky Way Isopods are found in humid areas, which means you must create a similar setup in captivity as well. Mist the terrarium regularly, and everything should be fine. Since they are nocturnal, they don’t need special lighting. Just an ambient room light is sufficient for them to thrive. Milky Way Isopods: Feeding Milky Way Isopods are not different when it concerns their diet. Just like the majority of species, they, too, love to feed on decaying organic matter. To keep their bellies happy, feed them rotting leaves from hardwood trees like oak or beech. Not just their happy meal, but these also contain nutrients essential for their development. Veggies like carrots, zucchini, or potatoes also add to their better health and well-being.  Appearance & Behaviour Milky Way Isopods are one of the most attractive species. The patterns they have sprinkled on their bodies create a unique look. Their appearance and behavior make them a highly sought-after species in the isopod-keeping. Milky Way Isopods are most active at night when the sun goes down, and it is the perfect time to explore their surroundings. They are social creatures and prefer to live in colonies like other isopods do. Milky Way Isopods: Habitat Milky Way Isopods need a stable and safe environment to live and breed peacefully without fear. You can create a similar setup by adding moist areas in their habitat. For this, use rich organic matter like leaf litter and decaying wood that are found in forest floors naturally. Also, add a lot of hiding places where they can seek shelter or rest when not active. Substrate Mix Be it Milky Way Isopods or any other species, they don’t do well without a good substrate mix. This is why you should pay more attention to this aspect and ready a proper substrate mix. For the base layer, use coconut coir and organic potting soil as they encourage burrowing behaviors. For moisture retention, incorporate sphagnum moss to maintain the necessary humidity levels and provide additional foraging material. You can also add leaf litter and calcium sources to complete the setup.

One of the most popular Porcellio isopods, the Porcellio Echinatus isopods also known as Pill Bugs originate from the European region. These spikey isopods are Portugal natives and make a great option for isopod collectors who want to house medium-sized isopods. They are prolific breeders and easy to keep isopod species. These high-end Porcellio isopods have a bumpy and drastically textured appearance. They are ultimate clean up crew members. The Porcellio Echinatus Isopods are even more bumpy than the Porcellio Scaber species.  A Glimpse Origin: Portugal, Europe Scientific Name: Porcellio Echinatus Difficulty: Low Rarity: Low Temperature: 72 to 82℉ Size: 8mm Humidity: 70 to 80% Favourable Foods: Leaf litter, decaying wood, fish food, calcium An Overview Porcellio Echinatus isopods are beginner-friendly isopods well-known to be an easy to care addition to terrarium and vivarium setups. These spiky isopods are acclaimed by collectors as well as enthusiasts for their distinctive appearance.    Porcellio Echinatus isopods make an excellent choice for beginners. These textured Porcellio isopods have a rugged and charming appeal. They have a hardy texture that can add a touch of intrigue to your isopods’ collection.    Porcellio Echinatus isopods can be low-maintenance pets. These hardy isopods are smaller than scaber isopods. They are excellent cleaners. These European isopods can tolerate semi-arid environments.    These Porcellio isopods can also thrive in moist tropical environments. The Porcellio Echinatus isopods can grow up to a length of 8mm. The Porcellio Echinatus isopods look like someone took the Scaber isopods and compressed them.    These European Porcellio isopods feed on leaf litter as well as dead insects. You can regularly feed these Porcellio isopods rotting wood as well as shrimp. Basic Care You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to the Porcellio Echinatus isopods. You can use terrariums with semi-arid setups to house the Porcellio Echinatus isopods. Maintain the container’s temperature within 72 to 82℉. Don’t keep the enclosure in direct light.  The Porcellio Echinatus isopods can also tolerate moist and tropical setups. You can feed them a balanced diet which includes different types of forest materials and additional supplements of calcium. Feeding Porcellio Echinatus eat materials such as decaying wood as well as decaying matter like leaf litter. You can also feed them additional supplements such as calcium and fish food. Porcellio Echinatus isopods are cuttlefish bone lovers. Food items like limestone can help isopods grow. You can always feed the Porcellio Echinatus isopods ample sources of calcium.  Appearance And Behavior The Porcellio Echinatus isopods are medium-sized isopods. It can grow up to 8mm. Porcellio Echinatus isopods have a spiky appearance. Their dark brown colored bodies with a textured appearance resembles the Scaber isopods a lot.  These Porcellio isopods are the ultimate clean-up crew members.  Porcellio Echinatus isopods are easy to maintain. Porcellio Echinatus isopods have a prolific nature. Habitat Porcellio Echinatus isopods prefer semi-arid to tropical environments. They need moderate ventilation in order to thrive. These Porcellio isopods grow well in groups. You can house the Porcellio Echinatus isopods in warm as well as dry environments. These little creatures love hiding spots in a terrarium setup.  Substrate Mix The substrate mix of Porcellio Echinatus isopods include leaf litter and decaying wood. These Scaber-like isopods can thrive in a bioactive setup with a substrate mix that includes sphagnum moss. You can also add coconut fiber as well as organic compost in the substrate mix of the Porcellio Echinatus isopods. Add sufficient sources of calcium inside the enclosure, like limestone, as well.

  A great introduction to tropical isopods, with a charming species, that is more prolific in terms of breeding than other Cubaris sp. White Panda Kings are almost entirely white, with a darker strip along the dorsal line, allowing them to stand out against most substrates. Beyond that, they have the appealing features that make Cubaris sp. so popular.   • Origin: Vietnam     • Scientific Name: Cubaris Sp ‘Panda King’     • Difficulty Level: Medium     • Size:  10 to 18mm     • Rarity: Moderately Rare     • Temperature:  22°C to 28°C     • Humidity: 60% to 75%     • Diet: Leaf litter, decaying wood, vegetables   If you're not a beginner you might be looking for a breeding project. If Cubaris sp. Have similar genetics to other isopod species it is likely that this white colouration is a recessive gene. In some species, this white gene when combined with other genes can cause orange, variegated, or mottled patterns. Even better if you combine two colours and the offspring are the original wild-type colour you will still get a stunning isopod.   Their diet needs to include some fruit, vegetables and a good quality fish food, and they do require a little higher in terms of calcium, probably due to their natural niche being in limestone caves, meaning that nearly everything will be rich in calcium.    They seem to like burrowing, or at least hiding away in leaves, so provide a reasonably deep layer of substrate and leaf litter. Cork bark and wood will be appreciated, used, and eventually broken down.    Whilst these are mostly nocturnal, once they have settled in and started breeding you will see them out and about.

The Giant Cannonball Isopods are one of the largest and rarest species that can roll up into a ball. Due to its large appearance and characteristics, it is sought by hobbyists and exotic pet owners. This large terrestrial rolling critter is the only species that are closely related to marine isopods. A Glimpse ●      Origin: Corsica and Sardinia ●      Scientific Name: Helleria brevicornis ●      Ventilation: Medium ●      Difficulty in Breeding: High ●      Average Size: 3 cm ●      Rarity: high ●      Temperature: 64℉-79℉ ●      Humidity: Medium to high   Giant Cannonball Isopods are one of the rarest species of roly polys that bear a close kinship with marine isopods in oceans and seas. These species are endemic to the Corsica and Sardinian regions and are not found in mainland areas. These remarkable species are one of nature's wonders and are quite a captivating addition to your terrariums. Giant Cannonball Isopods: Physical Features, Characteristics and Traits ●      It is a unique isopod and one of the largest isopod species that can conglubulate. ●      These species are related to the Terranean Sea isopods and are found only in Corsica, Croatia, and Sardinia. ●      They have a mild sand color to their exoskeleton, with their rear end curled inwards. ●      These species have a bulky appearance and are shy creatures that rarely appear on the surface. They are very light-sensitive and prefer darkness over well-lit space. ●      These species are active during night time, i.e., they are nocturnal in nature. ●      These species require a specific substrate mix, which is rich in organic material and detritus. ●      They primarily feed on rotten leaves and wood, very little vegetable and fruit scraps but consume very little to no calcium supplements. ●      These species are not ideal cleanup crews as they are picky in terms of diet. ●      Some breeders also say that they're the isopod version of millipedes, which makes them different from other isopod species. ●      I prefer a humid climate and moderate temperature. They're not a huge fan of dry substrate, so humidity and moisture need to be controlled. ●      These critters like warm temperatures around 74℉ to 78℉ during the spring season. Therefore, the temperature needs to be maintained for optimal health. ●      During the fall and winter seasons, these creatures must be put in a winter diapause for three months. This aids in the overall breeding process and the overall health of the species. ●      These species are prolific in nature, but they are slow-growing species. The babies, once born, will reach sexual maturity after 8 to 12 months. Dietary Requirements They mostly prefer plants that are decayed and rotting parts of wood.  These species keep a very balanced diet and do not prefer food that is supplied from outside. They love food that is naturally decayed and present inside the substrate. When you provide a food substitute like isopod superfood, mix it with substrate and it has to be ensured that you are providing the necessary amount of protein such as fish and meat scraps. You can also provide little vegetable scraps but make sure to provide a little amount. These species don't have a very voracious appetite. Make sure to avoid any mold on the food as it may not consume it. Giant Cannonball Isopods: Reproduction and Breeding Process There is a belief that these species will reproduce only once in a lifetime. However, providing a mild winter diapause promotes the female isopods to breed every year and not once a lifetime. This is because in their natural habitat, winters are relatively cold, and they halt their breeding. So, by providing this brief winter diapause, you will be able to make them breed for multiple years and also help you achieve a sizable colony. Therefore during the spring season the temperature should be maintained between 74 - 78 degree fahrenheit for a good breeding rate and to produce healthy babies. In the winter season the temperature inside the enclosure is to decrease to at least 60 degrees fahrenheit. During the breeding months, the male isopod takes a position above the female isopods, which is also called a nuptial ride, for a period of one month. It is done to ensure that this is the only father of the brood. Post fertilization, the female counterparts burrow holes in multiple locations and ensure that food sources are available around the holes. They do this to ensure that their broods receive nutrition after birth. During birth an egg-like mancae is formed between the legs of the female isopods. The brood will come out of this only after the first successful molting in a few hours. Once they are born, then the female isopod will continue to assist their broods. After a few weeks these broods will grow enough to find their own food independently. The initial size when they are born is approximately two centimeters, and they reach sexual maturity in about eight to twelve months. Substrate Mixture ●      It is to be ensured that the enclosure is filled with high substrate filling and that the substrate has a proper composition of organic matter like decayed materials of plants or wood. ●      The mixes should consist of forest humus, leaves that are rotten, and rotten parts of white wood in an equal ratio. ●      Make sure that the substrate mix has a minimum thickness of 15 cm. ●      The top layer of the mix can be covered using leaves, and rotten tree bark can be placed for them to hide. This ensures that you are providing an ecosystem similar to their natural habitat. ●      The amount of humidity inside the substrate should be controlled. It should not happen that the mix is very moist, and it is also important to check that the temperature inside the enclosure is controlled. ●      Proper ventilation is provided by drilling holes in the enclosure. This prevents excess humidity in the terrarium. ●      You have to keep the enclosure in a dark area as they are sensitive to light, and they don't prefer areas with high intensity of light. If you can follow the above mentioned methods , you can easily keep the culture in optimal health conditions and also help them breed healthy broods.