Porcellio Isopods (44)

Isopods as pets are becoming extremely popular among the masses.  But if you want an easy-to-care species, choose Ying Yang isopods. Found rarely in other species of isopod, Ying Yang isopods can adapt to different environments, making it ideal even for a novice to have it as a pet. Ying Yang Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Europe Scientific Name: Porcellio Scaber “Ying Yang” Difficulty: Easy Temperature: 18–26°C Rarity: Not rare Size: Up to 1.7 cm Humidity: 70-80% Prefer damp habitats with high ground moisture Thrive in a cool environment Seek out areas with humid air to avoid desiccation Preferably cold-loving and do best in lower temperatures within their range Favorable Foods: Leafy Greens, Mushrooms, Carrots, Decaying wood Ying Yang isopods originated in Europe, but they are not rare like other species. They also have striking black, orange, and red patterns that are uncommon in the isopod world. You can find them in pet shops or online sites that deal with these creatures easily. Though the size of isopods depends on their ideal environment, Ying Yang isopods survive in any ambiance and grow up to 1.7 cm long. They instinctively avoid harmful environments, such as dry or hot areas, by seeking out moist, sheltered locations. Their ability to adapt to unfavorable environments helps them maintain health and longevity. Looking like molten lava, these species become a more fascinating creature, which can be kept a terrarium if the moisture level is thoroughly maintained. The life expectancy of adult Porcellio scaber is approximately two years under optimal conditions. Ying Yang Isopods: Basic Care We have detailed a few tips that you should follow to care for your isopods. Feed them leafy greens and other decaying matter because it is essential for their development. Use a paludarium or terrarium to keep your isopods. But ensure it has a secure lid to trap moisture and heat. Set up a semi-moist vivarium where your isopods can live comfortably. But maintain the right temperature and humidity. You should use the right substrate mix for your isopods. For Ying Yang isopod, anything which retains moisture like peat moss and coconut coir. You must ensure the terrarium receives proper lighting as it is essential for their bioPeatate hiding spots. Using leaves or bark for Ying Yang isopods, your isopods feel safe. Porcellio scaber uses several mechanisms to adapt to changes in their environment, such as altering their movement and moisture retention strategies. They can scaber alter factors like speed and turning rate to maintain optimal living conditions. **Ying Yang Isopods: Feeding Porcellio Scaber** Ying Yang isopods need a balanced diet to maintain their health and stay healthy. You can feed them various organic foods like fruits, mushrooms, decaying plant matter, and vegetables that benefit their health. Besides that, please provide them with protein-rich foods like organic plant scraps and dried vegetables twice a week. **Ying Yang Isopods: Description Porcellio Scaber & Behaviour** Ying Yang isopods are smaller than other isopods. They are only 1.7 cm, making them suitable for small enclosures. These isopods are among the best-looking creatures. Their exoskeletons have attractive black, orange, or red patterns. They have 14 legs to move fast and climb rough surfaces in their natural habitat. Ying Yang isopods thrive in low to moderate humidity. But they can adjust to different environments. As a nocturnal species, they prefer to live in the dark during the day and come out to come at night. Porcellio scaber's behaviour leads them to respond to environmental stimuli such as moisture levels and predator threats. The behaviour Porcellio scaber respond with includes orthokinesis, klinokinesis, thigmokinesis, and turn alternation, which help them avoid desiccation and escape predators. When threatened, bold woodlice may stay immobile for shorter periods, while shy individuals exhibit longer tonic immobility (thanatosis behaviour found). The reflex exhibited by Porcellio scaber, such as turn alternation during klinokinesis, helps them evade harmful environments. Observed increasing speed in dry or hot conditions is also part of their escape strategy. **Ying Yang Isopods: Habitat Porcellio Scaber** These isopods need an environment that mimics their original habitat, which is dark and humid. Maintaining the habitat is even more important than creating one. To preserve their habitat, add moist soil, damp leaf litter, and decaying wood. The substrate mix is equally important for regulating their natural habitat. Ying Yang Isopods: Substrate Mix Isopods need a good substrate mix. You cannot make your isopods healthy unless you meet this requirement. Items like coconut fiber, sphagnum moss, peat moss, and leaf litter help them to thrive. Also, add plant matter and decaying wood for added nutrition. This will allow them to thrive and reproduce faster. By maintaining their habitat, you can keep your isopods active.             Ying Yang Isopods: Ecology and Ecosystem Role The common rough woodlouse Porcellio scaber is more than just a fascinating pet—it’s a key player in the health of natural ecosystems. As a detritivore, Porcellio scaber is essential for breaking down decaying leaf litter and rotting plant matter, recycling nutrients back into the soil and supporting the broader web of life. This species is widespread, with the distribution Porcellio scaber covering much of Central and Western Europe, and it has successfully colonized other regions, often hitching a ride through human activity. Its adaptability makes it a hardy species, thriving in a variety of environments, from gardens to forests, wherever there is enough ground moisture. When it comes to the habitat Porcellio scaber prefers, these woodlice seek out cool, damp places with plenty of organic material. You’ll often find them under stones, logs, or within rich leaf litter, where humidity is high and the risk of drying out is low. The description Porcellio scaber is distinctive: an oval, slightly flattened body with a rough, tuberculate exoskeleton, usually slate-grey but sometimes showing a range of colour forms—hence its common name, the common rough woodlouse. Feeding Porcellio scaber is all about finding decaying organic matter. Thanks to their very sensitive receptors, these woodlice can detect the scent of microbial activity, helping them efficiently locate food sources. Their diet may have limited nutritional value, but it’s crucial for soil health and nutrient cycling. The life cycle of Porcellio scaber is equally fascinating. Females carry fertilized eggs in a fluid-filled sac on the ventral side of their short abdomen, protecting the young until they’re ready to emerge. Juveniles grow quickly, reaching maturity in just a few months, and adult animals can live for up to two years under favorable conditions. Porcellio scaber’s unique behaviors have even inspired scientific innovation. The Porcellio scaber algorithm is a novel optimization algorithm based on the species’ ability to solve constrained optimization problems in nature. By mimicking the way these woodlice explore and adapt to their environment, researchers have developed new methods for solving complex problems in computer science and engineering. In response to certain stimuli, such as a dry or hot environment, Porcellio scaber exhibits remarkable survival strategies. One such reflex is thanatosis behavior—a form of death feigning where the woodlouse becomes immobile to avoid detection by predators. In unfavorable environments, they also increase their speed and turn more frequently, using alternating turns average to move in a straight line and escape to safer, more humid areas. This movement is explained by bilateral asymmetrical leg movement, a mechanism that ensures efficient navigation, unlike random turns. To conserve moisture, Porcellio scaber often seeks contact with multiple surfaces—a behavior known as thigmokinesis. By reducing their exposed surface area, they minimize water loss, which is vital for survival in less humid conditions. Research from the South Australian Research Institute and other development institutes has shed light on these behaviors, with findings published in resources like the European Journal of Soil Biology. For those interested in further exploration, external links media related to Porcellio scaber—including images, data, and scientific articles—are available on platforms such as Wikimedia Commons. Finally, studies in animal learning have shown that Porcellio scaber possesses a short-term memory, aiding in navigation and food location. These insights not only deepen our understanding of this common species but also highlight its value in both ecological research and the development of optimization algorithms. In summary, the common rough woodlouse Porcellio scaber is a resilient and adaptable species, playing a vital role in decomposition and soil biology. Its fascinating behaviors and ecological importance make it a subject of ongoing scientific interest, with applications that reach far beyond the garden or terrarium.

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

Bioactive enclosures have become increasingly popular recently, especially among reptile enthusiasts and herpetologists. The good thing about these enclosures is that they are self-sustaining, meaning they use natural microfauna and plants to create a more natural habitat for captive animals. Speaking of which, isopods are a key component of bioactive enclosure. If you plan to include these tiny creatures in your bioactive terrarium, consider Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods. These isopods are known for their beautiful bright colour and flat body. Plus, they are drier than other isopod species. A Glimpse Origin: Coros, Sardinia Scientific Name: Porcellio Spatulatus Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate Size: Up to 20 mm Rarity: Rare Temperature: 18°C - 28°C Humidity: 45-55% Favourite Food: Fruits, greens, veggies, decaying leaves, fish food An Overview Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods are comparatively rarer than other isopod species. They are mostly found in Coros, Sardinia and boast an impressive, flat body. But the most unique thing about these isopods is the bright colour that is unlike any other. These terrestrial crustaceans belong to the Porcellionidae family and are known for their spatula-shaped bodies. Many people prefer to keep these isopods because they are excellent decomposers. They feed on organic matter and play a crucial role in breaking down decaying plant materials in their natural habitat.  Due to their unique appearance, they make a great addition to a bioactive enclosure. Additionally, they contribute to nutrient cycling, which is another great reason to have these isopods. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros Isopods: Basic Care Keeping these isopods can be a great experience. But before you get them home, you should educate yourself about their care requirements. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods require a slightly drier setup than other isopods. So, you can use a well-ventilated container or terrarium to house these isopods.  Ensure the enclosure is large enough for the isopods to move around and provide hiding spots using bark, leaves, and logs. The ideal temperature for these isopods is between 18°C and 28°C. By maintaining this temperature range, you can ensure that your isopods are happy and stress-free. Since these isopods require less humidity, the ideal range is between 45 and 55%. To maintain the correct humidity level, you can lightly mist the enclosure. It is important to maintain adequate airflow inside the enclosure at all times. Failure to do so can lead to mould growth, harming your isopods. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros Isopods: Feeding Whether it is Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods or any other species, providing them with a balanced diet is important. Speaking of which, these isopods feed primarily on decaying plant material. But they also like fresh fruits, greens, and vegetables. You can provide them with decaying wood and leaf litter for primary food. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods love rotting white wood, so offer plenty for those who don't know. These organic materials mimic what they consume in the wild and are also good for their health. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods also enjoy fresh vegetables and fruits. It's a good idea to provide them in small amounts so they don't get wasted. You can add fish food, dried shrimp, and fish flakes to their diet for protein. This is important to ensure that they receive a balanced nutrition. Also, don't forget to add different forms of calcium, like limestone granules and oyster seashells. Last but not least, remove uneaten food to prevent bacterial and mould growth inside the enclosure. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros Isopods: Appearance And Behaviour Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods are visually striking creatures and can grow up to 20 mm. Besides the bright colour, Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods have a unique body shape, which makes them stand out from other isopods. The uropods found at the end of their bodies are wide and flat, which helps them to balance and move with ease. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods have a hard, segmented exoskeleton that protects them from predators. Additionally, they exhibit a wide range of colours, which makes them even more appealing. These isopods are highly active in the night. They will likely explore their surroundings, especially during dusk or dawn.  Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods are known to cluster together under leaf litter or bark. That's where they seek shelter during the day. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros Isopods: Habitat Porcellio Spatulatus Coros requires a suitable environment to thrive and grow. To replicate their natural habitat in a terrarium, mimicking the forest floors they are accustomed to is important. When setting up their habitat, you should start with hiding spots. You can use bark, stones, and wood pieces to create hiding areas for your isopods. These tiny creatures use hiding spots to seek shelter and feel safe when threatened. You must also add a layer of leaf litter to make them feel more comfortable inside the enclosure. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods use leaf litter as food and also to burrow in. As mentioned, Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods don't require high humidity levels. This means you can use damp moss to slightly moist the enclosure. Also, make sure that there are dry parts inside the terrarium. This way, you can provide a range of humidity levels to your isopods. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros Isopods: Substrate Mix It is essential to use a proper substrate mix, be it Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods or any other species. That's because it helps maintain the correct humidity and temperature levels inside the enclosure. A suitable substrate mix can provide your isopods with a comfortable environment to live and reproduce. Coco fibre is a great base substrate for isopods because it allows them to burrow and retain moisture. Adding a layer of leaf litter on top of the substrate can provide your isopods with food and shelter. Decaying wood is essential as it mimics their natural habitat and provides additional food. Additionally, you can add crushed eggshells or cuttlebone to give a rich calcium source for your isopods. This is essential for the development of their exoskeleton.

Porcellio sp. "Red Uropods Orange Stick" represents one of the most visually striking isopod morphs available in the UK hobby. These eye-catching terrestrial crustaceans showcase vibrant red uropods (tail segments) against an orange-tinted body, creating a stunning contrast that makes them stand out in any collection. Their unique colouration and active nature have made them increasingly popular among both beginners and experienced isopod enthusiasts. Summary Origin: Captive bred morph Common Name: Red Uropods Orange Stick Maintenance: Easy to Medium Temperature: 18°C - 26°C (64°F - 79°F) Size: 1.5 - 2 cm Rarity: Medium to High Humidity: 60% to 80% Diet: Decaying leaves, vegetables, fish flakes, calcium supplements Supplements: Cuttlebone, calcium powder, or crushed eggshells Porcellio sp. Red Uropods Orange Stick: Overview The Red Uropods Orange Stick isopods are a captivating addition to any bioactive vivarium or standalone culture. These medium-sized Porcellio species display remarkable colouration that intensifies as they mature, with juveniles showing hints of the vibrant red that will eventually dominate their uropods. Their active daytime behaviour makes them more visible than many other isopod species, providing constant entertainment for keepers. These isopods are particularly well-suited for those expanding their isopod collection and looking for something visually distinctive. They combine the hardiness typical of Porcellio species with unique aesthetic appeal, making them an excellent choice for display cultures. Porcellio sp. Red Uropods: Characteristics Distinctive bright red uropods that contrast beautifully with their orange-tinted exoskeleton Active during both day and night, making them excellent display isopods Moderate breeding speed with good colony establishment rates Tolerant of slight humidity fluctuations, though they prefer consistent conditions Social creatures that thrive in groups and show interesting colony behaviours Hardy and adaptable to various substrate types and enclosure setups Care Requirements Red Uropods Orange Stick isopods are relatively forgiving in their care requirements, making them suitable for keepers with some isopod experience. They prefer a moderately humid environment with good ventilation to prevent stagnant conditions. Unlike some Porcellio species that favour drier setups, these isopods appreciate a more balanced moisture gradient. Temperature stability is important for optimal breeding, with room temperature (20-22°C) being ideal. They can tolerate brief temperature fluctuations but perform best in stable conditions. For those new to keeping Porcellio species, understanding how to choose the right isopod species for your setup is crucial. Diet and Nutrition These isopods are enthusiastic eaters with a preference for variety in their diet. Primary food sources should include well-decomposed hardwood leaves (oak, beech, or maple work excellently). Supplement their diet with fresh vegetables like carrots, courgettes, and sweet potatoes, offered in moderation to prevent mould growth. Protein supplementation is essential for healthy moulting and reproduction. High-quality fish flakes, dried shrimp, or specialized isopod foods should be offered weekly. Calcium is crucial for exoskeleton development - provide constant access to cuttlebone, crushed eggshells, or calcium powder. Understanding what woodlice eat will help you provide a balanced diet for optimal health. Breeding Information Red Uropods Orange Stick isopods reach sexual maturity at approximately 6-8 months under optimal conditions. Females carry their eggs in a marsupium (brood pouch) for about 3-4 weeks before releasing tiny white mancae (baby isopods). A healthy female can produce broods of 20-40 offspring. To encourage breeding, maintain stable temperatures around 22-24°C and ensure adequate protein in their diet. Providing plenty of hiding spots with bark pieces and leaf litter gives females secure areas for releasing their young. The distinctive colouration begins developing after several moults, with full adult coloration achieved by 4-5 months. Habitat Setup Creating the ideal environment for Red Uropods Orange Stick isopods requires attention to both substrate composition and environmental features. These isopods thrive in enclosures that replicate forest floor conditions while accommodating their specific needs. Recommended Substrate Mix: 40% decomposed hardwood leaves 30% rotting wood pieces 20% organic compost (pesticide-free) 10% sphagnum moss for moisture retention The substrate should be 5-7cm deep to allow for burrowing behaviour. Create a moisture gradient by keeping one side of the enclosure slightly damper than the other, allowing the isopods to self-regulate their hydration needs. Add cork bark pieces, seed pods, and additional leaf litter on the surface to provide hiding spots and supplementary food sources. Ventilation is crucial - ensure your enclosure has adequate air holes while maintaining humidity. A well-ventilated container prevents harmful ammonia build-up whilst supporting the microclimate these isopods prefer. For detailed setup guidance, explore top isopod species for your vivarium to understand compatibility and setup requirements. Why Choose Red Uropods Orange Stick Isopods? These remarkable isopods offer the perfect combination of visual appeal and manageable care requirements. Their striking appearance makes them excellent for display cultures, whilst their hardy nature ensures success for keepers ready to move beyond beginner species. They work brilliantly in bioactive setups with dart frogs, small geckos, and other tropical species that appreciate higher humidity. Whether you're seeking unusual isopods to diversify your collection or looking for an active clean-up crew with personality, Porcellio sp. "Red Uropods Orange Stick" delivers on all fronts. Their moderate breeding rate means colonies establish well without overwhelming enclosures, making them ideal for both dedicated cultures and mixed bioactive systems. Shipping Information: Isopods are posted Monday to Thursday using Royal Mail's Next Day by 1pm service and also the Royal Mail Track 24 service. All orders include a 20% overcount to ensure you receive a thriving starter culture.

Porcellio hoffmannseggii "Sevilla" represents a unique locality variant of the legendary Titan isopod, originating from the historic region around Seville, Spain. While maintaining the robust build and hardy nature of their larger cousins, these distinctive isopods showcase refined characteristics that make them particularly appealing to collectors. Their compact size, stunning colouration, and active nature have established them as a sought-after choice for both display cultures and bioactive setups requiring low-humidity specialists. Summary Origin: Seville region, Spain Common Name: Sevilla Titan, Mini Titan Maintenance: Easy to Medium Temperature: 18°C - 30°C (64°F - 86°F) Size: 2.5 - 2.7 cm (25% smaller than standard P. hoffmannseggii) Rarity: Medium to High Humidity: 30% to 50% Diet: Decaying hardwood, vegetables, protein supplements Supplements: Cuttlebone, calcium powder, crushed oyster shells Porcellio hoffmannseggii Sevilla: Overview The Sevilla variant offers all the appeal of keeping Titan isopods in a more manageable package. These remarkable creatures display the characteristic white "skirts" along their exoskeleton edges, often enhanced with subtle blue or purple iridescent hues that catch the light beautifully. Their smaller stature makes them ideal for keepers who want the Titan experience but have limited space or prefer working with slightly smaller specimens. For those interested in unusual isopod species, the Sevilla locality represents an excellent choice. They combine the hardiness and low-humidity tolerance of standard P. hoffmannseggii with unique aesthetic qualities that set them apart in any collection. Distinguishing Features Noticeably smaller than standard P. hoffmannseggii (approximately 25% reduction in size) Cleaner, more defined white margins ("skirts") along the body segments Dark base colouration often displaying blue, purple, or grey tones with metallic sheen More active and visible than many other large Porcellio species Retain the characteristic elongated uropods of the species Less aggressive territorial behaviour compared to standard Titans Care Requirements Sevilla Titans thrive in conditions that replicate their Mediterranean homeland. They prefer distinctly drier environments than most commonly kept isopods, making them perfect for keepers who struggle with maintaining high humidity. These adaptable creatures can tolerate temperature fluctuations remarkably well, handling brief periods up to 30°C without stress - reflecting the hot summers of southern Spain. Ventilation is crucial for success with this species. Stagnant, humid air will quickly lead to colony decline. Ensure your enclosure has multiple ventilation points whilst maintaining a moisture gradient. Understanding how to choose the right isopod species for your environment is essential - Sevilla Titans excel where many tropical species would struggle. Diet and Nutrition Like all P. hoffmannseggii variants, Sevillias show a marked preference for decaying hardwood over leaf litter. Provide a variety of wood types including oak, beech, and ash. While they'll consume leaf litter, it should be considered supplementary rather than primary food. Their relatively passive feeding response means food should be offered in moderation to prevent spoilage. Protein supplementation plays a vital role in successful breeding. Offer high-quality fish flakes, dried shrimp, or specialized isopod protein blends weekly. Nutritional yeast makes an excellent supplement, promoting healthy growth and reproduction. For comprehensive dietary guidance, explore what woodlice eat to ensure balanced nutrition. Breeding Information Sevilla Titans reach sexual maturity at approximately 6 months under optimal conditions. Males can be distinguished by their longer uropods and slightly smaller overall size compared to females. During courtship, males perform characteristic circling behaviours and antenna vibrations to attract females. Females carry developing young in their marsupium for approximately 4 weeks before releasing fully-formed mancae. Brood sizes typically range from 10-30 offspring, smaller than standard P. hoffmannseggii but still respectable. The compact size of Sevillias means colonies establish more quickly in limited space, making them excellent for expanding your isopod collection without requiring massive enclosures. Habitat Setup Creating the ideal environment for Sevilla Titans requires careful attention to their Mediterranean origins. These isopods thrive in setups that balance dry conditions with accessible moisture zones. Substrate Recommendations: Base layer: Well-draining organic compost mixed with sand (60:40 ratio) Plenty of decaying hardwood pieces throughout Crushed leaf litter as supplementary material Limestone chips or crushed oyster shell for calcium and pH buffering Maintain substrate depth of 7-10cm to accommodate their burrowing behaviour. Create a steep moisture gradient by keeping one corner slightly damp with sphagnum moss while maintaining the remaining 2/3 of the enclosure dry. Add cork bark flats, bark tubes, and stone hides to provide territorial boundaries and reduce aggression between males. Temperature should remain between 20-25°C for optimal activity and breeding. While they tolerate higher temperatures, prolonged exposure above 30°C should be avoided. These hardy isopods make excellent additions to bioactive vivarium setups housing arid-adapted reptiles. Why Choose Porcellio hoffmannseggii Sevilla? Sevilla Titans offer the perfect entry point into keeping large Porcellio species. Their manageable size, stunning appearance, and forgiving care requirements make them ideal for keepers ready to move beyond beginner species without the space demands of full-sized Titans. The unique colouration and refined features of this locality variant add visual interest to any collection. These isopods excel in bioactive setups for species requiring lower humidity, including leopard geckos, bearded dragons, and various arid-adapted species. Their moderate size means they won't overwhelm smaller enclosures while still providing effective clean-up crew services. For collectors seeking different types of Porcellio isopods, the Sevilla locality represents a must-have variant combining beauty, hardiness, and manageable care requirements. Shipping Information: Isopods are posted Monday to Thursday using Royal Mail's Next Day by 1pm service. All orders include a 20% overcount to ensure you receive a thriving starter culture.

Discover the captivating beauty of the Spanish desert with our Porcellio Haasi Bardenas Isopods! These stunning isopods showcase the unique characteristics of their arid homeland, making them a must-have for both beginner and experienced enthusiasts. With their impressive size and striking appearance, these fascinating creatures are perfect for bioactive setups and will add a touch of Mediterranean elegance to any enclosure. Porcellio Haasi Bardenas: A Glimpse • Origin: Bardenas Desert, Northeastern Spain• Scientific Name: Porcellio haasi bardenas• Difficulty Level: Medium• Size: Up to 3 centimeters• Rarity: Uncommon• Temperature: 70°F to 80°F• Humidity: 45% to 55%• Favourite Foods: Dried leaves, fruits, organic vegetables, bark An Overview Originally from the remarkable Bardenas Desert in northeastern Spain, these Porcellio Haasi Bardenas represent a unique locality variant adapted to semi-arid conditions. The Bardenas Desert, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and specialized wildlife. Our Haasi Bardenas have evolved to thrive in these challenging conditions, making them exceptionally hardy pets with fascinating behaviors. These isopods are characterized by their robust build and subtle earth-toned coloration that reflects their desert origins. The Bardenas variety tends to display more muted yellows and browns compared to other Haasi variants, with distinctive markings that mirror the desert's natural palette. Their impressive size, reaching up to three centimeters, makes them easily visible and excellent display animals. What sets the Bardenas variety apart is their remarkable adaptability and active temperament. These creatures are constantly on the move, often seen foraging on the surface during evening hours. Their larger size and distinctive desert adaptation make them a standout addition to any isopod collection. Habitat Requirements Substrate Mix: • 40% coco coir • 30% sphagnum moss • 20% decomposed leaf litter (oak or beech preferred) • 10% limestone chips or crushed cuttlefish bone Create a moisture gradient with one end slightly damp and the other completely dry. The Bardenas variety prefers conditions on the drier side, so avoid over-moistening the substrate. Provide excellent ventilation as these desert dwellers require good airflow. Basic Care Enclosure Setup: • Minimum 10-gallon container for a small colony • Secure, well-ventilated lid with multiple air holes • Cork bark tubes and dried branches for hiding • Scattered dried leaves for foraging opportunities • One shallow water dish in the humid zone Environmental Conditions: • Maintain temperature between 70°F to 80°F • Keep humidity between 45% to 55% • Provide 12-hour light/dark cycle • Ensure one humid retreat area and predominantly dry conditions These isopods are moderately challenging but rewarding to keep. They require slightly more attention to moisture levels than some species, but their hardy nature makes them forgiving of minor care mistakes. Feeding Primary Diet: • Dried deciduous leaves (oak, maple, birch) • Fresh fruits (apple, pear, melon - avoid citrus) • Organic vegetables (carrot, sweet potato, squash) • High-quality fish food or isopod pellets • Decomposing wood and bark Supplements: • Cuttlefish bone or calcium powder (essential for molting) • Occasional protein treats (freeze-dried bloodworms) Feed 2-3 times per week, removing uneaten fresh foods after 48 hours to prevent mold. These isopods are particularly fond of dried leaves and will process them efficiently, making them excellent clean-up crew members. Breeding Information Porcellio Haasi Bardenas are prolific breeders when conditions are optimal. Females carry eggs in their marsupium for approximately 3-4 weeks before releasing fully-developed mancae. A single female can produce 20-40 offspring per breeding cycle. Breeding Requirements: • Stable temperature around 75°F • Consistent humidity levels • Adequate calcium supplementation • Multiple hiding spots for gravid females • Peaceful environment with minimal disturbance Young isopods mature in 3-4 months and will begin breeding, creating a self-sustaining colony. Provide extra calcium sources during breeding seasons to support successful molting and egg development. Compatibility These gentle giants are compatible with a lot of terrarium inhabitants. Their peaceful nature makes them excellent community animals, though adult males may occasionally display territorial behaviour. They work wonderfully as part of a bioactive clean-up crew alongside springtails and other microfauna. Perfect for: • Bioactive vivariums and terrariums • Desert and Mediterranean-themed setups• Mixed-species isopod colonies • Educational displays and observation Whether you're new to the world of isopods or a seasoned hobbyist, our captive-bred Porcellio Haasi Bardenas will make a fascinating and low-maintenance addition to your collection. These desert gems combine the hardiness of their arid homeland with the charm that makes Porcellio species so beloved by enthusiasts worldwide!