

PostPods
Pak Chong Isopods (Cubaris sp.)
from £32.50
£40.00
One of the utterly famous Thai isopods, the Pak Chong isopods, originates from the Southeast Asia region. Located in the impressive district of Pak Chong in Northeast Thailand, they make an excellent choice of isopods for beginners to start breeding with.
Pak Chong Isopods: A Glimpse
Origin: Thailand
Scientific Name: Cubaris sp.
Difficulty Level: Easy
Size: Average Size 1.5 Centimeters
Rarity: Low/ Medium
Temperature: 70℉ to90℉
Humidity: Moderately Humid
Favourite Foods: Freeze Dry Shrimp, Dried Leaves, Vegetables, Wood, Grass, Decaying Matter
Pak Chong Isopods: An Overview
Pak Chong isopods are rare isopods. They are found in the caves of the Pak Chong province in Northeast Thailand. They would easily complement any vivarium or terrarium setup any day.
These South Eastern natives are famous for their delightful color schemes. They will remind the onlookers of the Bernese mountain dog. They are bluish-black in color. They have white frill faces and orange butts. These isopods enjoy living in warm temperatures and damp environments.
Despite their natural habitat, PakChong isopods thrive in a range of conditions. They can tolerate a lot more humidity than the white tigers and rubber duckies. Although they do not breed as fast as the Murina, however, they are among the faster-breeding Cubaris.
They possess complex social behavior. They can often be seen nudging each other, followed by intense, strong flickering of the antennae.
The main source of the diet of the these guys is decaying wood, leaf litter, and calcium supply. You can supplement their diet with protein and organic fresh vegetables to ensure they get all the important nutrients they need to foster.
A semi-arid environment with proper ventilation is necessary. You can prefer a substrate depth of 2 to 3 inches and top it off with leaf litter.
Basic Care
Taking good care of the Pak Chong isopods is your responsibility as an owner. You can use the below-mentioned tips to take good care of these isopods.
You can use a living soil terrarium or vivarium for housing the Pak Chong isopods.
You must maintain the container’s temperature within 70 degrees to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme heat or cold temperatures can be lethal.
Add some substrate to regulate the humidity level within the enclosure. The substrate should be rich in nutritional value to boost the isopod habitat.
Avoid keeping the isopod enclosure where there is direct sunlight.
Choose an arid set up to keep the Pak Chong isopods.
Keep moss on the moist side of the enclosure to maintain humidity. Don’t let the moss try out completely. In order to avoid mold growth, maintain adequate ventilation.
You can feed Pak Chong isopods forest materials like decaying matter, wood, dried leaves, and more. You can add protein-rich supplements and organic fresh vegetables to ensure good health.
Feeding
Pak Chong isopods are detritivores. They feed on potatoes, carrots, squash, leaf powder, cuttlebone, protein-rich foods, decaying matter, dried leaves, shrimp meal, bat guano, rotten wood, etc.
You can also feed fresh moss to Pak Chong isopods. Use supplements such as egg shells, oyster shells, limestone, cuttlebone, and moss. You can prepare a balanced recipe of plant matter, beans, mushrooms, pulverized grains, freeze-dried vegetables, complex proteins, and calcium supplements.
Pak Chong isopod's main source of diet should be lots of leaf litter. However, you can always feed them with protein and organic fresh vegetables.
Appearance and Behaviour
Pak Chong isopods do not have any unique needs. It can grow up to 0.71 inches in length.
These isopods are easily a favorite because of their outstanding color pattern. They have white edges and a blue-to-gray tint with orange-to-red tail ends and faces.
These isopods are slow breeders. Once established, they reproduce very frequently. They would make a wonderful color addition to any isopod collection.
These isopods exhibit unique traits. They can supply moisture to one another. They often roll up into a protective stance and squeeze in tight.
These isopods slow down movement when the temperature in the enclosure rises. They do so in order to store energy that they can later use for traveling to a secure location.
In the case of colder climates, Pak Chong isopods can be seen moving around very quickly across longer distances. They are in search of food and refuge.
Pak Chong isopods are climbers. If you keep them in exposed closures, they might find a way to escape.
Habitat
Pak Chong Isopods thrive in well-humid and warm environments. They can breed in many kinds of vivarium and terrarium settings.
These isopods must have adequate ventilation as they are cave species. You should keep around 2 inches of space that will allow air to circulate through the enclosure. This will help them thrive.
Pak Chong isopods can be stored in vivarium and terrariums alike. They must be stored in closed enclosures to save them from escaping.
Pak Chong isopods love leaf litter. They prefer ample amounts of moss to hide and explore in.
Substrate Mix
These isopods will need a sufficient amount of calcium supply in order to thrive. You can add limestone, cuttlebone, or eggshells in the substrate mix in order to ensure they get a good calcium supply. A great mix of natural calcium sources for isopods will make a tasty and nutritious treat for them.
The substrate mix for these isopods should be at least 3 inches. You must provide a nourishing substrate mix in order to maintain their health. You can add extras like bat droppings, shrimp meal, and rotting wood. You can also add potty soil to their substrate.
You can also add coconut coir, peat moss, and a slightly moist layer of leaf litter.


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Snow White Isopods (Porcellio Laevis)
from £2.50
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.


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Lava Isopods (Porcellio Scaber)
from £12.50
Lava isopods are scientifically named as Porcellio scaber are native to Europe. People often find them fascinating and often keep them as pets. These creatures are easy to take care and can easily adapt to any environment, which make them unique too.
Scaber lava isopods are very common in places like Portugal and Spain, and because they require low maintenance, it has become a popular choice as pets.
Scaber Lava Isopods: A Glimpse
Origin: Europe
Scientific Name: Porcellio Scaber
Difficulty Level: Easy
Size: Up to 1.7 Centimetre
Rarity: Low/Medium
Temperature: 70° F to 84° F
Humidity: 70% to 80%
Favorite Foods: Mushrooms, Carrots, Leafy Greens, Decaying wood
An Overview
These Isopods are native to Europe, but unlike other isopods they are not rare. They are tiny, hard-bodied creatures and are characterized by their unique patterns of red, black, and orange color combinations.
Most people fall for their gorgeous exoskeleton looks similar to the pattern made by flowing lava on the ground.
These little critters thrive in a damp atmosphere, and building a humid habit for them is essential. It is easy to make a low to moderate-humidity enclosure by misting their environment regularly.
Porcellio Scaber is not much of a picky eater and they enjoy a simple diet consisting of leafy greens, potatoes, and carrots. Sometimes, even a slice of apple or other fruits makes them happy.
Scaber Lava Isopods: Basic Care
Lava isopods need right temperature, housing, food, and humidity conditions to thrive and stay healthy. These basic tips shared below will help to care for your lava isopods:
You must give them a diet rich in leafy matter and calcium supplementation.
Make sure to get a terrarium or paludarium with a cover to contain humidity and heat for your isopods to live comfortably.
The sub-moist vivarium type is the most appropriate enclosure for lava isopods as it provides the ideal humidity level and temperature range.
The ideal pH for tank water is between 0.6 and 8.0, with the hardness level below 15 GH.
The correct temperature range for lava isopods is 70° F to 84° F.
For substrate mix, you must use a mix of coco coir and peat moss.
Make sure the terrarium has proper lighting as it is important for their life cycle.
You must keep a watch on their behavior to ensure they are active and healthy.
Make hiding spots using leaves or bark inside the terrarium for them to seek cover and feel safe.
Feeding
Feeding the right food Scaber Lava Isopods is important for their health. The best way to keep these tiny creatures healthy and active is by feeding them the right food.
Because they are not picky eaters, Scaber Lava eats a variety of things like fruits like pears and apples, vegetables like spinach and carrots, mushrooms, and decaying plant matter. These tiny scavengers happily snack on these organic goodies and absorb nutrients needed for their growth and well-being.
If their diet lacks protein then these little guys turn into scary monsters as they start feeding on each other to supplement protein deficiency. Make sure to feed protein 2x every week by providing supplements like frozen dried veggies, mushrooms, and organic veggie scraps.
Scaber Lava Isopods: Appearance And Behaviour
Lava isopods are tiny, armored bugs with a tough exoskeleton providing protection.
They are only 1-2 cm long and easy to manage in a small space like a terrarium.
Their exoskeletons come in different colors like red, orange, or a combination of the two colors with black.
They scuttle around with their 14 tiny legs, and antennae on top of the head to feel and sense their environment.
They thrive in low to moderate-humid conditions and exhibit excellent survival skills.
They use their strong legs to find hiding spots under rocks and leaves on rough terrains.
Lava isopods are nocturnal, and that’s why they remain active in the night. During the day, they remain hidden to avoid the heat.
Scaber Lava Isopods: Habitat
Scaber lava isopods are mostly found in humid and dark environments because they prefer to live that way. They prefer low to moderate humidity but are very tolerant of high-humid conditions.
These little bugs thrive in leaf litter, decaying wood, and soil with high humidity when left in the wild. Their way of living is crucial for the ecosystem because they break down organic matter.
At home, a suitable environment for lava isopods is a terrarium with a cover to maintain moisture and temperature levels. A substrate mix of peat moss and fiber is ideal because that’s the closest setup to their natural habitat.
An easy way to keep the substrate mix from getting dry is by spraying water regularly. The enclosure must be damp, not waterlogged. You must also add a few good hiding spots like pieces of leaf litter or bark. Bearded dragon enclosures are a great choice for lava isopods.
Scaber Lava Isopods: Substrate Mix
Creating a suitable substrate mix for saber lava isopods is essential for their health and well-being. Since they love to live in humid places, it is important to build a setup that is supportive of their needs.
For the base, you must use peat moss or coconut fiber as they are very good at absorbing moisture and providing a comfortable environment. To create natural hiding spots, add bark or leaf litter. It makes them feel secure and the set-up looks more natural.
These tiny creatures love to burrow, and therefore adding sphagnum moss or coconut coir is a great idea. It serves as cozy underground hideouts for these bugs to hide themselves if feel threatened.
Make sure the enclosure is always moist and humid. To maintain the dampness, you can use a spray bottle to mist water regularly. A good way to enrich the substrate is by adding pieces of decaying wood and plant matter which are great sources of nutrition for the scaber lava isopods.


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White Side/Penguin Isopods (Cubaris sp.)
from £12.50
£30.00
Cubaris White Side or Penguin isopods belong to the Cubaris sp. These isopods are named after their dark colour with white markings along the side, like a Penguin, thus making them unique and visually appealing. Due to this striking feature, they are sought after by enthusiasts and hobbyists worldwide. They make a great addition to the terrarium and vivarium.
White Side/Penguin Isopods: Synopsis
Origin: Thailand
Scientific Name: Cubaris Sp.
Maintenance level: Moderate.
Size: 0.8 cm
Rarity: High
Breeding: Difficult
Temperature: 70°F to 80°F
Humidity: 70% to 80%
Supplements: Cuttlebone
Favourite Food: Vegetables, meat scraps, fish food
White Side/Penguin Isopods: Origin
The first class of isopods to be found in Vietnam were the White Side isopods. In 2017, they were discovered within the limestone caverns. The White Side Isopod was later renamed as Cubaris White Isopod. Numerous species have not been fully characterized under the ambiguous genus Cubaris.
Since its discovery, this species has become popular, and its population has boomed due to increased demand.Due to their striking features and colour, these creatures look adorable and are loved among exotic pet lovers.
White Side/Penguin Isopods: Characteristics and Behavioral Insights
They can grow up to 0.8 cm long.
These isopods have dark bodies with white markings on the edges resembling “penguins.”
They are social in behaviour. They exhibit behaviours like foraging and grooming.
They roll into a ball when they feel threatened or face any danger.
Although they can withstand any temperature, the optimal range for breeding temperatures is around 70°F to 80°F
An arid environment is lethal for White Side Penguin isopods.
Difficult to breed. Once these isopods are established in a healthy environment, they produce offspring.
White Side/Penguin Isopods: Feeding Habits
Like all isopods, they are detritivores in nature. They eat rotten plants and other organic matter for nourishment. In their artificial habitat, their diet should include varieties of vegetables, fish pellets, leaf litter, commercial bug food and supplements rich in calcium like Cuttlebone. This helps maintain a healthy exoskeleton and produce healthy offspring.
White Side/Penguin Isopods: Breeding
White Side ‘Penguin’ Isopods are slow to breed in the beginning. They have to first establish a healthy environment before they start generating. Once they set in their bioactive, they start producing their offspring. The ideal temperature for these species should be around 25°C, and the humidity gradient should be higher. Breeding activity can be monitored by observing their behaviour during the mating process. Regular monitoring of their offspring is required for the young isopods to sustain. In addition, feeding them with decaying wood and leaves will improve their health, thus giving them healthy offspring. Genetically different isopods can be introduced to their environment to prevent inbreeding. Moreover, constant monitoring and attention are required to maintain the population of isopods.
White Side/Penguin Isopods: Natural Dwelling
Cubaris sp. Penguin isopods in nature thrive in humid and thick forest grooves. The Southeast Asian climate was a suitable living ground for these critters. They contribute to the environment by participating in decomposition by feeding on dead and decayed matter. It is crucial to understand the environment so that they can thrive in artificial environments.
White Side/Penguin Isopods: Artificial Setting and Care
To house a Cubaris sp. Penguin isotopes, creating an artificial setting, involve more than just the substrate mix. It includes factors like enclosure type, humidity control, textured terrains to climb and hide, substrate depth, etc. They are as follows:
Providing ventilated enclosures to accommodate the need for White Side Penguin isopods.
Maintaining the humidity of the environment is essential. Use mist when needed and ensure proper ventilation to avoid moisture buildup.
Keep the temperature of the enclosure within 21°C to 27°C. Avoid fluctuating temperatures as it may cause stress to the creatures.
Provide a thick substrate mix as they like to dig in deep to lock in the moisture inside their body. A 6-inch deep substrate will be ideal for burrowing.
Providing hiding and climbing spots for these critters. Leaves, Cork bark, and hardwood provide plenty of hiding spots for them to hide.
Distributing dried leaves can mimic their natural habitat. This encourages them to bring out their natural behaviour, like foraging and exploring.
Isopods don’t like bright lights; therefore, keeping them in dark and quiet corners will be great.
To maintain a clean environment, prevent unwanted pests, and remove uneaten food, scraps, and molten exoskeleton.
White Side/ Penguin Isopod: Disease and its Cause
Like other living organisms, penguin isopods are also prone to various diseases. Their health can be affected due to infections from parasites or bacteria. In addition, environmental stresses jeopardize their health. They also face challenges with moulting and deformities of their shell. Lack of moisture and nutrition leads to the death of the critters during moulting. Continuous monitoring and providing a suitable environment, ensuring hygienic conditions, will help prevent health issues. Moreover, respiratory problems and complications during reproduction are also observed in the species.
White Side/Penguin Isopods: Substrate Mix
The Penguin isopod substrate mix is similar to other isopod substrates. The substrate mix helps in mimicking the environment, bringing out their natural behaviour. The substrate should also have a balanced nutrient for the creatures and their offspring to stay healthy. The substrate mix includes:
Coconut coir/Coco peat: This provides a solid substrate base. They help in water retention and replicate the natural environment for them to burrow.
Rotting leaves: decaying oak leaves and magnolia provide food and nutrition for the creatures. As they are detritivores, they get nourishment from consuming decaying matter. These leaves also offer hiding places for the critters.
Wood: Decayedhardwood and cork bark serve as a nutritional source and a significant aesthetic element for the enclosure. They also provide space for isopods to crawl and hide.
Moss: Sphagnum moss is included in the enclosure to enhance moisture retention. They also serve as excellent hiding places for the isopods.
Sand or Gravel: A small amount of sand or gravel can be added to improve the drainage
This carefully curated mix can help create a captivating and optimum breeding environment for the White Side ‘Penguin’ isopods. This method supports their needs and allows caregivers to appreciate the natural behaviour of isopods in an enclosure.


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Powder White Isopods (Porcellionides Pruinosus)
from £5.00
Powder White isopods are one of the most beginner-friendly isopods in the pet world. They work great as beginner-level pets for children and young adults. Their ability to quickly establish a colony distinguishes them from the other isopods.
These quickly adapting groups of creatures can be a great addition to any pet isopod collection. With the proper care and attention, Powder White isopods can even breed before reaching their prime adult size.
A Glimpse
Origin: Mediterranean
Scientific Name: Porcellionides Pruinosus
Difficulty Level: Low
Size: Upto 1.25 cm
Rarity: Low
Temperature:70℉ to 85℉
Humidity: 45% to 80%
Favourite Foods: Carrot, Dried Shrimp
An Overview
Powder White isopods are the common name for the otherwise scientifically called Porcellionides Pruinosus isopods. These isopods are particularly popular for their quick-growing nature. Even with moderate care, these isopods are known to multiply quite quickly.
Generally, Powder Whites can live in various environments, including harsh ones. They can withstand different climate regions, including tropical and semi-arid. These beginner-friendly pet isopods only grow up to 1.5 centimeters long. Due to its small size and very minimal needs, it is extremely easy to care for them.
Powder Whites are relatively affordable. As they are quite common to find and easy and fast to breed, they are sold at a budget-friendly rate worldwide. They are widely used in terrariums as the clean-up crew.
Powder Whites are primarily suitable for pet rearing because of their diurnal character. Diurnal creatures are mostly active during the day. So, in its enclosure or terrarium, it is possible to witness them being active throughout the day.
Basic Care
Following instructions are considered ideal for caring Powder White isopods by isopod experts.
Powder White isopods require very minimal care as they naturally adapt to various environments.
Powder White isopods are great to be used as feed for other small animals. These isopods usually remain on the surface of any enclosure, making them easy prey for any pet animal.
The Powder White isopods colony needs a constant supply of food. So, the pet owner must refill their food source almost constantly. The isopods primarily consume organic matter, including animal feces. Providing organic matter can aid the quick growth of the Powder White isopods.
Keeping the Powder White isopod enclosure under a moderate temperature is crucial. Excessively high or low temperatures can harm the survival of the isopods.
The Powder White isopod enclosure should be kept partially moist. It is advisable to water a portion of the habitat now and then.
Feeding
These isopods require a nutritious diet to grow and reproduce correctly. A fibre-rich, protein-rich diet is considered ideal for the well-being of the Powder White isopods. For fibre content, you can use food items like leaf litter, decaying wood, magnolia pods, etc.
For high protein content, it is advisable to provide foods like shrimp pellets, yeast, insect frass, etc. Experts also advise keeping a good amount of vegetables in the diet of Powder Whites. Under the vegetables category, you can feed them sweet potatoes, peas, mushrooms, beans, etc.
However, the most favourite foods of Powder Whites most people would say iscarrots and dried shrimp. One of the most important things to note while feeding Powder White isopods is never to overfeed the creatures. Leftover food particles can easily cause fungal growth in the enclosure, which is very harmful to the isopods.
Appearance and Behavior
Powder White isopods have their name from their shell's powdery or shimmery white color. They appear white in color. During their younger phase, they are bright white in color. But once they reach their adult phase, the color shifts to more of a shimmery white.
When it comes to behavior, Powder White isopods are highly active. They are constantly on the move and are considered a great cleaning crew for any enclosure. Their active nature is one of the reasons why they are regarded as great food for other pets. Because they cause the pet to chase around them before being caught for eating.
Although Powder White isopods are highly active during the day in unfamiliar conditions, they tend to hide under leaf litter. They come out of their hiding spot only once they are sure of the safety of the surroundings.
Habitat
Powder Whites are naturally found in the Mediterranean region. They were later moved to Europe and various parts of Asia. So, there are no fixed natural habitat traits that they prefer.
The buyers are expected to use plastic or glass containers to inhabit the Powder White isopods. As these isopods are highly active, it is better to have transparent enclosures to watch them better.
Keeping the enclosure highly ventilated is necessary for the survival of the isopods. There needs to be no soil in the enclosure. Powder White isopods can survive on all kinds of surfaces. However,providing them with the nutrients they would otherwise have gotten from living soil is essential.
The enclosure should always be kept within a healthy temperature between 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. As these isopods prefer to live in highly humid habitats, care should also be given to that aspect. That is, the buyer should keep the humidity levels up in the enclosure.
When it comes to the moisture content in the soil or the substrate mix, a partially wet condition can work. It is better to keep a portion of the enclosure moist always. You can spray water into one half of the enclosure to prevent the enclosure from being dry.
Keeping enough hiding spots in the enclosure for these pods is essential. Some of the hiding spot options are as follows.
Cork bark
Lotus pods
Coconut halves
Egg cartons
Powder White Isopods: Substrate Mix
The ideal substrate mix for the Powder White isopods includes the following elements.
Coconut coir
Peat moss
Leaf litter
It is advisable to always keep the substrate mix's upper layer as leaf litter. It is also essential to keep the substrate mix a bit moist.


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Porcellio werneri (Greek Shield Isopod)
from £20.00
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)


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Jupiter Isopods (Cubaris sp.)
from £50.00
Jupiter Isopods (Cubaris sp.) are a captivating addition to any terrarium, known for their unique black and yellow exoskeleton that resembles the planet Jupiter. Native to the limestone caves of Southeast Asia, these small, low-maintenance isopods thrive in humid environments and are ideal for beginners. With their calm nature and slow breeding habits, they make a striking and manageable choice for isopod enthusiasts, perfect for both display and care.
A Glimpse
● Origin: Thailand
● Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. "Jupiter Isopods"
● Maintenance required: low
● Average Size: 2 cm
● Rarity: medium
● Lifespan: 2-3 years
● Temperature: 64℉-79℉
● Ventilation: Low
● Humidity: 60-80%
● Favorite food: Carrots, butternut squash, sweet potatoes
● Supplements: Crushed limestone, Cuttlefish bone
Jupiter Isopods: Introduction
These roly polys, like other cubaris isopods, are found in limestone caves of Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries. These have a very calm temperament and is a great beginner-friendly isopods. They are active during early morning and nighttime, so you can watch these critters move around exploring the terrarium during that time. They may be similar to the lemon blue isopods, but these species have a black color on the exoskeleton and not blue.
Jupiter Isopods: Physical Traits and Characteristics
● These small roly polys are one of the morphs of Cubaris sp. isopods. Their color resembles the planet Jupiter, hence the name.
● Have small oval bodies that are segmented and have antennae. They have colorful legs in the front area, which makes them unique.
● They have yellow outlines with black segmented exoskeletons. The colours of these species are due to the acidic nature of the soil in their native land.
● The wax layer on their exoskeleton helps with hydration, and they molt when the isopods mature and grow.
● Absolutely delightful and low-maintenance pets which are easy to take care of.
● These species are egg-breeding type isopods and are slow breeders.
● These pets are kid-friendly and beginner-friendly.
● These species are striking and visually appealing, thus making a great addition to your terrarium and vivarium.
Diet
Like many isopods, these species' primary food sources are rotten leaves, plants, algae, and wooden bark. When culturing them in a terrarium or vivarium, make sure to provide a balanced diet of vegetables, meat, and calcium sources. If not, these creatures are prone to soft shell disease, which may affect molting and eventually perish.
Therefore, make sure to provide various types of vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots and even vegetable scraps. These species are not picky eaters and will eat almost everything that is given to them.
For protein you can include earthworm castings, fish scrap, meat scrap into their diet. Adding crushed limestone, eggshells or cuttlebone in their enclosure can improve their calcium intake and will strengthen their exoskeleton. Adin commercial isopod food mix can also help achieve the necessary nutrition for these tiny critters.
Make sure to provide portions that can be completed in a single session. Observe and provide food according to the size of the culture.
Jupiter Isopods: Personality
These species in general have a mild and non-aggressive nature. But when there are other creatures present, then they tend to be a little skittish. They tend to hide when they sense other creatures are present. They don't like to be picked up or touched unless necessary and they roll up and freeze when they feel threatened.
Though these creatures love to explore the environment and continue with their natural behaviors like foraging. They are not the best tankmates with other isopods or any other species and tend to attack if kept in a small enclosure. Therefore, it is crucial that there is space in the enclosure.
These species take their time to be friendly with their human parents. With trust and patience and also by feeding them their favorite food, these species can become friendly with humans.
Jupiter Isopods: Breeding
● Jupiter isopods can lay eggs without any male isopods, i.e., they are parthenogenetic in nature. This phenomenon is quite common among the isopods.
● They are seasonal breeders and have a slow reproduction rate compared to other species.
● The procedure begins when the female produces an egg capsule. After that, she would usually lay the egg capsule in a damp, moist place.
● The number of eggs in each capsule can range from one to twenty-one, depending on the species. It takes the baby isopods 6-7 weeks after hatching to mature into adults.
● Once they hatch, they become independent and explore and forage food on their own.
● The nymphs will molt around four times in their early lives. The Jupiter Isopods enter the reproductive cycle after reaching adulthood, and they can begin to procreate in around three weeks.
Jupiter Isopods: Tips to Make an Artificial Habitat
The Jupiter isopods prefer tropical climates with rich soil substrate and humidity. Providing a rich substrate mix that contains organic matter will help provide them with a more natural atmosphere for the enclosure. When choosing the enclosure, make sure that there is enough size for these species to breed and produce offspring. Therefore, it is crucial to get a 19-litre capacity plastic container as a starter for the enclosure. You can also opt for a bigger plastic enclosure of 38 litres.
Drill small ventilation outlets on the container and make sure that they are small. These species thrive in a humid environment thus small outlets help prevent excess humidity. Temperature within the enclosure should be maintained the same as specified in the description as constant change in temperature may cause stress to these species.
Add the substrate mix into the enclosure to make sure that there is enough thickness. A thickness of 2.5 inches is ideal for these species to dig and hide. Add sphagnum moss on one side of the enclosure. Make sure that they cover ⅓ of the container and mist the area with water. Leave the rest of the substrate dry, giving them the option to choose their environment.
When adding the substrate mix, make sure to mix dried leaves into it. Sprinkle some more on top of the substrate as well. Adding egg crates and rotten bark or coconut shells can act as hiding spots for the isopod colonies. Adding these hiding spots helps to differentiate each brood and colony and it reduces competition and dominance among other colonies.


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Armadillidium Granulatum Orange Isopods
from £9.00
£45.00
Armadillidium Granulatum orange isopods fast became one of our favourite isopods here at PostPods due to the combination of confidence and striking colour these make for a great option for anyone who wants a colony to be on display almost constantly.
Insight
Common Name: Spanish Yellow Isopod
Origin: Spain
Size: 2.5 cm
Difficulty level: low
Temperature: 64℉ to 82℉
Rarity: Low
Humidity: 75% to 80%
Favourite Food: Repashy bug burger, leaf litter
Supplements: Cuttlefish bone
Introduction
Armadillidium Granulatum isopods are one of the largest isopods. They settle into new environments easily and are easy to breed. The yellow spots on the exoskeleton are unique, and they are different for each isopod.
These critters are indigenous to Spain and can be found in, among others, wet environments like fallen leaves, rocks, carks, etc. They are hardy and quite easy to take care of in captivity and are a great addition to terrariums.
Characteristics and Traits
They have a textured carapace; therefore, they are also known as Granulated Pill isopods.
These roly-polies have soft shells and are used as clean-up crews.
Their spots are unique in each isopod.
They are semi-aquatic creatures and can be grown in terrariums and paludariums.
They have humps behind their body called "uropods". They help in movement, especially when they feel threatened.
It is highly prolific in nature and breeds very early.
Easy to maintain and are child-friendly.
They are omnivores, docile and easy to care for.
They are from the southwestern part of Europe and are commonly found in gardens, forests, grasslands and urban areas.
Armadillidium Granulatum Isopods: Diet
Armadillidum Granulatum feeds on pretty much all types of food. They are scavengers and feed on detritus, like decaying plants, fungi, roots, and algae. They also feed on dead insects and other invertebrates.
When breeding in a closed enclosure, it is important to provide a balanced diet. Feeding greens, veggies, and fruits helps to maintain its health. Shredded shrimp and oyster shells are provided for calcium and protein. Repashy bug burger is given as an alternative to traditional food, which helps balance all nutrients.
Armadillidium Granulatum Isopods: Offspring
Armadillidium Granulatum orange isopods are highly prolific and produces offspring before reaching adulthood.
It is expected to find small broods along with these isopods who are sub-adults. They produce a large number of litters.
The mating of these species is simple. After the mating ritual, the male will deposit spermatozoa into the female's pouch. The female stores them till they are ready to produce offspring.
Once the development is complete, the female deposits them in pouches. This later produced up to 40 youngs per brood.
These species can reproduce without their mate. The females that produce offspring without mating will be born as clones.
Armadillidium Granulatum Isopods: Basic Care
Here are the following tips and instructions to provide basic care for Armadillidium Granulatum isopods.
For the isopods, provide a closed terrarium with a moist substrate made of coco peat or peat moss.
Mist twice a day, and it is essential to maintain humidity around 75% to 80%.
Keep live plants and organic materials in the enclosure.
Keep ⅓ of the enclosure moist and leave the rest arid.
Use a glass or a plastic container for breeding the isopods.
Provide holes for ventilation to prevent excess humidity.
Avoid keeping the isopod box under direct sunlight.
Add springtails to prevent and mitigate moulds.
Cork bark, lotus pods, coconut halves and egg cartons to create hiding spots for the isopods.
Provide calcium and protein-rich food for healthy offspring and moulting.
Add various types of moss to serve both as a snack as well as a hiding place for the isopods.
Armadillidium Granulatum Isopods: Natural Habitat
The natural environment of the Armadillidium Granulatum is typically cold, with a lot of decayed food and hiding areas. These species are nocturnal, and they hide under the soil during the daytime. In the wild, these species form clusters under rocks and wooden barks. This is done to retain their body moisture and to ward off predators.
It is necessary to understand the natural environment of Armadillidium Granulatum isopods so that it can be replicated in the artificial habitat setting.
Armadillidium Granulatum Isopods: Artificial Setting
The method of setting up an artificial setup for the isopods should be done in a plastic shoebox tub. Providing a lid for the tubs adds safety to the enclosure. Making a series of holes on the sides of the container will help attain healthy flow and control the humidity inside the enclosure.
Providing a substrate of 1-3 inches (4 in for burrowing species) will provide a proper foundation or base for the habitat. Isopods prefer deep layers and like to feel safe. Add sphagnum Moss and lots and lots of leaf litter, along with pieces of wood or cork bark, to help provide them with a better environment.
It is important to maintain a temperature of around 75℉ and a moisture gradient of around 75% to create an optimal environment for the isopods to live in the artificial setting.
Armadillidium Granulatum Isopods: Substrate Mixture
Making a high quality substrate mixture is crucial. As the Armadillidium Granulatum isopods are humidity-loving creatures, one must offer a suitable substrate mix.
The ABG substrate mix is a combination of charcoal, orchid bark, sphagnum moss, tree fern fibre and peat moss. They are very much suited for tropical terrariums as well as isopod substrate mix. It helps maintain moisture without trapping water for proper drainage, thus creating an ideal environment for isopod and springtail colonies.
Making a thick base creates a stable foundation for the isopod enclosure. This, along with adding wood bark, leaf fodder, and protein supplements, creates a suitable environment for the isopods to thrive.


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Red Panda King Isopods (Cubaris sp.)
from £25.00
£60.00
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.


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Little Sea Isopods (Cubaris Murina)
from £8.00
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.


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High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods (Armadillidium Gestroi)
from £15.00
£17.50
One of the most preferred isopods, the high yellow spotted giant isopods oalso knows as Armadillidium Gestroi Isopods Originate from the tropical region of France. These proportionatelysmall isopods are very popular as pets due to their unique appearance and behavior. Thus, good quality, high yellow spotted giant isopods are one of the most sought-after these days.
A Glimpse
Origin: France
Scientific Name: Armadillidium gestroi
Difficulty Level: Easy
Size: Up to 1.5 Centimeters
Rarity: Low/ Medium
Temperature: 68℉ to77℉
Humidity: 70% to 80%
Favorite Foods: Fish Carcasses, Shrimp
High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods: An Overview
These ispods are not very commonly found in comparison to other popular isotopes from the same origin. These European natives are renownedfor theirvibrant high yellow exoskeletons that exude a radiant glow. They have a distinctive yellow and cream color, scattered patches, and markings. They are suitable for novice keepers.
Being native to regions in the Mediterranean and Southern Europe, High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods have an enclosure with high-humidity. They have a veryimpressive appearance.They make good pets because of their ease of care. You can use plastic and glass enclosures to house them.
Feeding these isopods is very convenient. These isopods can eat mostly anything from decaying plant and animal matter to vegetables and fungi. You will need to ensure a humid atmosphere to conveniently house them. Minimize exposure to severe weather conditions whenever possible.
Basic Care
You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to the High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods.
You can use either a glass vivarium or plastic containers for housingHigh Yellow Spotted Giant isopods.
Maintain the container’s temperature within 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit.
It is essential to ensure high humidity inside the enclosure.
You can minimize ventilation holes to prevent excessive humidity loss.
Don’tkeep the enclosure in direct light.
Position moss on an enclosure partly. Ensure the moss has enough moisture at all times.
Make use ofdecaying plant and animal matter as food for isopods.
You couldevenfeed them with vegetables, fungi, decaying food, worms, dead insects, leaf litter, lichens, and algae where this is available.
Feeding
High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods are detritivores. They mostly consume decaying plant and animal matter only. They also feed on a variety of food items such as leaf litter, algae, etc.
They tend to be voracious eaters. Since they are ahighly active group, it's essential to provide them with adequate and nutritious supplements to ensure their optimal health.These isotope pet owners can use calcium, protein, vitamin E, and vitamin D supplements, etc.
One common mistake made by High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopod owners is overfeeding. This can be problematic due to the high humidity levels typically present within the enclosure.
In high humidity conditions, any leftover food can rapidly deteriorate. This can encourage mold growth. It can disrupt the balance within the enclosure. It can potentially result in various issues. Therefore, it's recommended to provide only an amount of food that High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods can consume in one feeding session.
High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods crave fallen leaves, moss, dead wood, and lynches. They are always looking for food rich in calcium. This is why they often prefer eating different kinds of stones, dead insects, and more. However, you can always feed them with decaying plant matter.
Appearance and Behaviour
High Yellow Spotted Giant isopod is one relatively small isopod. It can grow to nearly 1.5 centimeters in length.
The isopod species’ name is inspired by its yellow color, scattered markings, and ability to curl into a ball.
These isopods have unique yellow and cream color. They have many markings and scattered patches along their lengths.
As these isopods exude a radiant glow, they make aesthetically appealing pets.
As they reach maturity, their color gradually darkens and becomes more like a brown hue.
Since they don't grow very large in size like the giant worms, these Isopods are well-suited for small pets.
These isotopesmake essential members of the bioactive food chain of a terrarium. They help in decomposition and disease control.
They are very easy to maintain and handle. They make attractive pets for children of young ages.
Habitat
Armadillidium Gestroi Isopods thrive in high humidity. This is why it is ideal to create a humid environment for them, minimizing any moisture loss whenever possible. Utilize a plastic container to store the High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods or add them to an enclosure with live terrarium plants.
Once these isopod familiarize with the conditions, then you can transfer it to a suitable enclosure. However, it is essential to keep the total of ventilation holes to a minimum. Excessive ventilation holes can lower the internal humidity, potentially causing unprecedented problems for the spotted giant isopods.
Elevated humidity in the closure can attract pests. Add springtails inside the enclosure. This will prevent pests from entering the enclosure. Springtails are also effective in managing mold.
High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods: Substrate Mix
Selecting the appropriate substrate mix is important for maintaining an ideal habitat for High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods. Since they grow in high humidity conditions, the mix should be advantageous for maintaining such an environment.
An optimal mix with excellent water retention properties is essential for preserving high humidity levels within a High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods enclosure. Given their detritivores nature, adding lichens and leaf litter into the substrate mix can be beneficial for them.
High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods also enjoy living inside hiding spots as much as possible. Experts highly recommend that you add a thick leaf litter and lichens layer at the top of the mix. You can add things likecoconut coir, charcoal, calcium supplements, etc., in the mix to create a suitable environment for them


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Pink Panda King Isopods (Cubaris sp)
from £50.00
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.


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Porcellio Hoffmannseggii Isopods (titan isopods)
from £20.00
Porcellio hovffmannseggi, 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 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.


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Powder Orange Dalmatian Isopods (Porcellionides Pruinosus)
from £6.00
One of the utterly famous isopods, the Orange Dalmatian Isopods, originates from the European and Asian regions. Native to Europe, they make an excellent choice for beginners to start breeding with. They make budget-friendly options and happy pets for children. They thrive in humid to dry environments. Thus, marvelous Orange Dalmatian Isopods make a sought-after alternative compared to other varieties in the market.
A Glimpse
Origin: Europe
Scientific Name: Porcellio Scaber Latreille
Size: 1.7cm
Difficulty Level: Easy
Rarity: Medium
Temperature: 70°F to 84℉
Humidity: 60% to 80%
Favorite Foods: Leaf litter, rotting wood, soil crust, cucumbers, mushrooms, oyster flakes, egg shells, fungi
An Overview
Orange Dalmatian Isopods are not so rare isopods. They are hard to source, though. They would easily complement any glass terrarium or plastic storage container.
These natives of Europe are famous for their bright orange color on a white base. They will grasp the attention for their fun pop of color, i.e., orange-on-white patterning. They will remind onlookers of the Dalmatian but with orange speckles.
Orange Dalmatian Isopods thrive in humid conditions to very dry environments. These isopods enjoy living in protein-rich and moist environments.
They are low-maintenance isopods that consume almost anything that they come across. They are slow moving and gentle in temperament. They can often be seen burrowing themselves under decayed leaf litter.
Basic Care
Taking good care of the Orange Dalmation Isopod is your responsibility as an owner.
You can use a terrarium for housing Orange Dalmation Isopod.
You must maintain the terrarium's temperature within 70 degrees to 84 degrees Fahrenheit. This species is well-tolerant of varied moisture levels.
Add some substrate, including peat moss and coconut coir, slightly along with a leaf litter layer to regulate the humidity level within an enclosure.
Avoid keeping the Orange Dalmation Isopod enclosure where there is direct sunlight.
Feeding
Orange Dalmatian Isopods are detritivores and feed on rotting wood and organic material. You can feed them zucchini, carrots, pumpkin, potatoes, asparagus, and more. Take out any decaying or fuzzy food within 24 hours to discourage mold growth.
Appearance And Behavior
Orange Dalmatian Isopods do not have any unique needs. It can grow up to 1.7 cm.
These isopods are easily a favorite because of their outstanding Dalmatian-like look. They have a white base with bright orange spots.
Orange Dalmation Isopod moves slowly. They can breed readily in well-set up enclosures.
They make a phenomenal cleanup crew. They make an ideal feeder isopod.
Habitat
Orange Dalmatian Isopods are fast breeding species that grow into adults and display more orange blotching. Extreme cold and heat can be lethal for the Orange Dalmation Isopod. They migrate often during moist and dry areas within the enclosure. You can mist one side of the enclosure every now and then to create a moisture gradient.
Substrate Mix
Orange Dalmation Isopod will need a sufficient amount of natural calcium sources in order to thrive. You can also add granite, coral, limestone, and some additional sources of protein to the substrate mix. You can add cork barks and lotus pods to satisfy their love for hiding.


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Yellow Zebra Isopods (Armadillidium Maculatum)
from £20.00
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.


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Giant Cannonball Isopods (Helleria brevicornis)
from £30.00
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.