Porcellio Isopods (48)

Meet the ultimate beginner-friendly cleanup crew with our reliable Porcellio Laevis Grey Isopods! These robust European woodlice represent the classic "wild type" coloration of this legendary species, showcasing elegant grey tones that range from light silvery-grey to deeper charcoal shades. Known as the "swift woodlouse" for their impressive speed when startled, these large, hardy isopods have earned their reputation as one of the most dependable and efficient bioactive cleanup crews available. Perfect for beginners seeking proven performance and experienced keepers wanting reliable workhorses for their terrariums. A Glimpse Origin: Europe and North Africa Scientific Name: Porcellio laevis "Wild Type" Maintenance required: Low Average Size: 1.8-2.4 cm Rarity: Common Lifespan: 2-3 years Temperature: 18℃-26℃ (64℉-79℉) Ventilation: Moderate to High Humidity: 50-70% Favorite food: Decaying matter, vegetables, protein sources Supplements: Cuttlebone, crushed limestone, high-protein foods Porcellio Laevis Grey: Introduction These remarkable isopods boast one of the longest histories in the hobby, with the species first documented in Britain during the 13th century. Though some researchers believe they originally hailed from North Africa, Porcellio laevis has successfully colonized much of the world through centuries of trade and exploration. The grey "wild type" represents the natural coloration found in European populations and serves as the foundation stock from which many popular morphs have been developed. Their impressive size, reaching up to 2.4cm in length, combined with their voracious appetite and rapid reproduction rate, has made them the gold standard for bioactive cleanup crews. These "swift woodlice" can move surprisingly fast when disturbed, using their speed as their primary defense mechanism rather than rolling into a ball like some other species. Physical Traits and Characteristics These large terrestrial isopods display the classic Porcellio body shape with a distinctively smooth, flat dorsal surface Their grey coloration ranges from light silvery-grey to deeper charcoal tones, often with subtle variations across their segmented exoskeleton Adult specimens reach an impressive 1.8-2.4cm in length, making them one of the larger isopod species commonly kept Males can be identified by their distinctive long, spear-shaped uropods (tail appendages) extending from their rear segments Their broad, flattened body shape makes them excellent burrowers and efficient at navigating through substrate layers Unlike Armadillidium species, they cannot roll into a complete ball but rely on their remarkable speed for defense They possess prominent antennae and well-developed eyes that help them navigate their environment effectively Their robust build and substantial size make them visible and impressive inhabitants of any terrarium setup Known for their "alternating turn" behavior when escaping threats, creating maze-like movement patterns to confuse predators Diet Porcellio Laevis Grey isopods are enthusiastic omnivores with particularly robust appetites, especially for protein sources. In their natural habitat, they consume decaying plant matter, fallen leaves, rotting wood, and any available protein sources including carrion and shed animal material. In captivity, they thrive on a varied diet including quality leaf litter, vegetable scraps (carrots, courgette, sweet potatoes, and squash work particularly well), and regular protein supplementation. They have a notable preference for protein sources such as fish food flakes, dried shrimp, shed reptile skin, and specialized high-protein isopod foods. Their substantial calcium requirements should be met through regular provision of cuttlebone, crushed eggshells, or limestone powder. Due to their large size and high metabolism, they require more frequent feeding than smaller species and can quickly process significant amounts of organic waste. Their voracious appetite makes them exceptional bioactive cleanup crews, but ensure adequate food supply as adults may dominate feeding areas and outcompete smaller species or juveniles if resources become scarce. Porcellio Laevis Grey: Personality These confident isopods display bold, active personalities that make them engaging terrarium inhabitants. They're much less secretive than many species and can often be observed foraging openly, especially during dawn and dusk hours. Their curious nature means they'll readily investigate new additions to their environment. They're notably fast-moving when startled, earning their nickname "swift woodlouse," and will employ their signature alternating turn behavior to evade perceived threats. Despite their size and robust appetite, they're generally peaceful with other isopods of similar size, though their competitive feeding behavior means they're best housed with equally robust species. Their active foraging and substantial size make them entertaining to observe, and their efficiency at cleanup duties means they'll quickly process any organic waste in their environment. They're tolerant of brief handling for maintenance purposes but prefer minimal disturbance. Breeding Porcellio Laevis Grey isopods are exceptionally prolific breeders, often considered among the easiest isopods to establish breeding colonies. They reach sexual maturity relatively quickly at around 3-4 months and can produce multiple broods throughout the year under favorable conditions. Females carry their eggs in a marsupium (brood pouch) for approximately 4-6 weeks before releasing 20-40 fully-formed juveniles. The young emerge as miniature versions of their parents and grow rapidly with adequate nutrition and favorable conditions. For optimal breeding success, maintain stable humidity around 60-70%, provide abundant food sources (especially protein), and ensure adequate calcium supplementation. Their rapid reproduction rate means small starter cultures can quickly establish thriving colonies that become self-sustaining within just a few months. Multiple generations coexist peacefully in well-maintained setups, and their prolific nature makes them excellent for establishing cleanup crews in multiple terrariums or sharing with other hobbyists. Creating the Perfect Habitat Porcellio Laevis Grey isopods appreciate spacious, well-ventilated terrarium setups that accommodate their active nature and substantial size. Use a quality substrate mix of soil, coconut coir, and decomposed organic matter with a depth of at least 5-6cm to allow for their natural burrowing behaviors. Create moisture gradients by maintaining one section more humid than the other, allowing these adaptable isopods to self-regulate their hydration needs. They're more tolerant of drier conditions than some species but still require access to moisture for their pleopodal lungs. Provide abundant hiding spots using cork bark (their absolute favorite), flat stones, ceramic tiles, or egg crate sections. Their substantial size means they need appropriately sized shelters, and cork bark serves double duty as both shelter and food source. Maintain stable temperatures between 18-26℃ with good ventilation to prevent stagnant air conditions. Their active metabolism and substantial waste production means adequate airflow is particularly important for this species. Include limestone or crushed oyster shell in the substrate to provide ongoing calcium supplementation, and consider adding oak leaves or other tannin-rich materials that support their natural feeding preferences while helping maintain appropriate substrate chemistry for optimal health and breeding success.

Many people prefer roly polies or pill bugs as pets. They believe keeping these little creatures is easier than owning a big animal, but the truth might shock you, and you find the case otherwise. Species like Bolivari yellow ghost isopods are rare and challenging to handle, particularly if you are a beginner. From basic care to maintenance, you must do everything to keep your isopods happy and healthy. Bolivari Yellow Ghost Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Alicante (Spain) Scientific Name: Porcellio Bolivari Difficulty: Medium Rarity: High Temperature: 18–25°C Size: Up to 3 cm Humidity: 45-70% Favorable Foods: Leaf litter, vegetables, rotting wood, springtails, Antarctic krill, pure spirulina, and agate sticks. An Overview Bolivari Yellow Ghost isopods are fascinating creatures. Their yellow highlights and lemonade-like coloration make them stand out from other isopod species. Because of their striking appearance, they are so popular among keepers. Bolivari Yellow Ghost isopods were mainly found in Alicante, Spain. Unlike some other isopods, they cannot tolerate high humidity. To ensure their thriving and growth, maintain the moisture level between low to medium. The same temperature also boasts their reproduction.  Another important factor which can’t be missed is to manage the temperature somewhere between 18°C and 25°, playing a crucial role in their overall development and survival rate.  To keep Bolivari Yellow Ghost isopods as pets, you must mimic their natural habitat in your terrarium. With a broad, flat body and a vivid yellow stripe running along their back, they look nothing less than stunning. If kept and fed well, they can also grow up to 3 cm in length. Bolivari Yellow Ghost isopods thrive in arid regions. You can keep them healthy only if you replicate these conditions in captivity. Bolivari Yellow Ghost Isopods: Basic Care There are a few basic tips you should keep in mind when caring for Bolivari Yellow Ghost isopods. A well-ventilated terrarium ensures the best environment for them to grow and thrive better.  These particular species of isopods cannot tolerate stale or musty air, which makes it essential to maintain proper airflow within the terrarium.  They are better maintained with a low or medium humidity level. Keep it between 18°C and 25°C when it comes to give them the ideal temperature You should also keep them under direct sunlight as it may cause overheating. Add curved cork bark in the terrarium so your isopods can cling to them. Bolivari Yellow Ghost Isopods: Feeding Bolivari Yellow Ghost isopods mainly feed on decaying organic matter. Their diet includes rotting wood, leaf litter, vegetables, salads, lichens, and banana leaves. However, you can also add specialized foods like springtails, pure spirulina, Antarctic krill, and agate sticks, which are good for their health and development. For protein, gammarus shrimp is good. For calcium sources, you can use cuttlebone or limestone. Bolivari Yellow Ghost Isopods: Appearance & Behaviour Bolivari Yellow Ghost isopods are bigger than other isopods. It can grow up to 3 cm in length. These isopods have a unique appearance mainly because of their striking yellow highlights. They contribute to soil health and the nutrient cycle inside the terrarium. Compared to daytime, Bolivari Yellow Ghost isopods are more active at night, a common behavioral trait. They have a flat, broad body that curves into a ball when threatened. Bolivari Yellow Ghost Isopods: Habitat Bolivari Yellow Ghost isopods live in dry environments that have calcium-rich soils. So, you will need a similar setup in captivity as well. You can replicate their natural habitat by maintaining proper ventilation inside the terrarium. Also, use a well-balanced substrate mix that is essential for their growth. Bolivari Yellow Ghost Isopods: Substrate Mix Never underestimate the role of a good substrate in maintaining healthy isopods. A mix of forest humus and flake soil serves as a strong base. But you can also add granulate, dead wood, shell grit, feeding foliage, and forest moss to provide essential nutrients and support the natural behavior of your isopods. Also, maintain 2-3 inches of substrate depth so your isopods can dig and explore comfortably.

Porcellio ornatus "High Yellow" is a Spanish species prized for its striking appearance—grey exoskeleton marked with bright yellow colouration that gives the morph its name. Reaching around 2.5cm, they're larger than many commonly kept isopods and display active, confident behaviour that makes them enjoyable to watch. Native to Spain's drier Mediterranean climate, they prefer lower humidity and good ventilation compared to tropical species. The High Yellow morph is a naturally occurring colour form rather than a captive-bred designer variety, giving it appeal among collectors who appreciate wild-type genetics. A Glimpse Origin: Spain Scientific Name: Porcellio ornatus "High Yellow" Maintenance required: Medium Average Size: 2-2.5 cm Rarity: Rare Lifespan: 2-3 years Temperature: 20-26°C (68-79°F) Ventilation: High Humidity: 40-60% (low to moderate, drier than most) Favorite food: Leaf litter, vegetables, fruits, protein sources Supplements: Cuttlefish bone, crushed oyster shell, eggshells Porcellio ornatus High Yellow: Introduction Porcellio ornatus originates from Spain's Mediterranean regions, where the climate is characterised by warm, dry conditions with distinct wet and dry seasons. This heritage shapes their care requirements—they prefer drier, well-ventilated conditions that would stress humidity-loving species. The "High Yellow" designation refers to the intensity of yellow colouration on their grey bodies. This is a natural morph found in wild populations, not a selectively bred variant. Several ornatus morphs exist, including Nord (grey with white spots), Yellow Dot/South (grey with yellow spots at the rear), and Chocolate High Yellow (brown instead of grey base). The High Yellow displays prominent yellow markings across the body against the grey base. Their larger size and active nature make them genuinely watchable. Unlike shy species that hide constantly, ornatus move about openly, exploring surfaces and climbing on bark and décor. This extroverted behaviour, combined with their size and colouration, makes them satisfying display animals. They're rated as intermediate difficulty—not beginners' first species, but manageable for keepers with some experience. Their preference for drier conditions runs counter to typical isopod advice, which can trip up those accustomed to humidity-loving species. Porcellio ornatus High Yellow: Physical Traits and Characteristics Adults reach 2-2.5 cm—larger than many commonly kept species Grey base exoskeleton with prominent yellow markings Yellow colouration intensity varies between individuals Sturdy, well-armoured body Cannot fully conglobate (roll into a complete ball) Segmented body with visible plating Active, slow-moving gait Antennae used for environmental sensing Their size makes them easy to observe and photograph. The yellow against grey creates genuine visual contrast that stands out in enclosures. Behaviour Porcellio ornatus High Yellow display confident, active behaviour. Activity patterns: Unlike many isopods that hide from light, ornatus are not particularly shy. They'll crawl about on surfaces even with ambient lighting, making them more visible than photophobic species. They explore actively, moving across substrate, climbing bark, and investigating their environment. Movement style: Slow-moving compared to quick species like P. laevis. They amble rather than dart, which makes observation easier and gives them a more deliberate appearance. Temperament: Extroverted for isopods. They don't retreat immediately when disturbed and seem comfortable being visible. This personality makes them enjoyable display animals. Climbing: Active climbers that will explore vertical surfaces, bark, and elevated décor. Secure lids prevent escapes. Colony behaviour: Social species that do well in groups. They form loose colonies and interact with each other without notable aggression. Environmental preferences: They move between drier and damper areas of enclosures based on their needs, self-regulating their moisture exposure. Diet Porcellio ornatus High Yellow have hearty appetites matching their active nature and larger size. Primary foods: Leaf litter (staple food source) Decaying wood Rotting plant matter Bark Vegetables and fruits: Carrots Potato Courgette Sweet potato Apple Various fruit and vegetable cuttings Protein sources: Fish food flakes Dried shrimp Meat scraps (small amounts) Invertebrate moults (they'll consume shed skins) Calcium: Higher calcium needs than some species. Provide cuttlefish bone, crushed oyster shell, eggshells, or calcium powder constantly. Adequate calcium supports healthy moulting and breeding. Feeding approach: Their active nature means they burn through food. Keep them well-fed with varied diet including protein and calcium-rich options. They're not picky—most organic matter gets accepted. Remove uneaten fresh foods before they spoil. Porcellio ornatus High Yellow: Breeding Ornatus breed at a moderate rate with proper care. Breeding rate: Moderate. Not explosive breeders, but colonies grow steadily when conditions are right. Sub-adults begin breeding before reaching full size if well-fed. Brood characteristics: Medium to large brood sizes when nutrition is good. Healthy females produce decent numbers of offspring. Breeding requirements: Appropriate drier conditions (40-60% humidity) Stable temperatures within preferred range (20-26°C) High protein and calcium availability Good ventilation Moisture gradient available Tips for success: Nutrition matters. Well-fed colonies with adequate protein and calcium breed more prolifically and produce healthier offspring. Don't skimp on supplements if you want colony growth. Maintaining the morph: Keep separate from other ornatus morphs to maintain the High Yellow colouration in offspring. Porcellio ornatus High Yellow: Other Morphs Several ornatus morphs exist for those interested in the species: Porcellio ornatus Nord: Grey shells with white spotting and white skirts. Different appearance from the yellow variants. Porcellio ornatus Yellow Dot (South): Dark grey body with yellow dots concentrated on the rear segments. More subtle yellow than High Yellow. Porcellio ornatus Chocolate High Yellow: Same yellow markings as High Yellow but on a chocolate brown base instead of grey. Attractive variant for those wanting something different. Each morph breeds true when kept separately, allowing collectors to maintain distinct lines. Porcellio ornatus High Yellow: Habitat Setup Their Spanish Mediterranean origins dictate drier, well-ventilated conditions. Enclosure: Glass terrariums or well-ventilated plastic containers work well. Good ventilation is a priority—they need airflow more than humidity retention. Secure lids prevent climbing escapes. Substrate: Use substrate appropriate for drier conditions: Organic topsoil as a base (pesticide-free) Sphagnum peat moss mixed in sparingly Sand mixed in for drainage Crushed limestone or calcium powder throughout Leaf litter layered on top Decaying wood pieces Substrate depth of 8-10cm (3-4 inches) allows burrowing. Keep substrate just moist, not wet. Humidity: Lower than most isopod species—40-60%: Keep approximately ¼ of enclosure as a moist area Leave remaining ¾ drier Mist the wet side only to create moisture gradient Add moss to the wet side for moisture retention Let them move between zones as needed Excess humidity can affect their health and breeding. They're adapted to drier conditions than tropical species. Ventilation: High ventilation—this is a key requirement. Good airflow prevents humidity buildup and mimics their natural arid habitat. Enclosures with ventilation outlets or containers with mesh-covered openings work best. Don't restrict airflow trying to maintain high humidity—they don't need it. Temperature: 20-26°C (68-79°F). Moderate temperatures suit them. Avoid extremes—they don't tolerate very hot or very cold conditions well. Room temperature in UK homes works for most of the year. Décor and hides: Cork bark pieces and tubes Coconut shell halves Lotus pods Egg carton sections Various mosses (sheet and pillow types) Rotting wood pieces Multiple hiding spots distributed throughout Varied textures and hide options create a more interesting environment that encourages natural behaviour. Bioactive Use Porcellio ornatus High Yellow suit bioactive setups matching their drier requirements. Good applications: Mediterranean-style vivariums Arid to semi-arid bioactive setups Enclosures for reptiles preferring drier conditions Display terrariums where visible, active isopods are wanted Strengths: Active, visible behaviour Attractive colouration adds interest Larger size makes them easy to observe Handle drier conditions than humidity-loving species Considerations: Need good ventilation—not suited to humid, enclosed setups Prefer drier conditions than many bioactive systems provide Intermediate care level means they're not as forgiving as hardy species Less suited for: High-humidity tropical setups Poorly ventilated enclosures Beginners with no isopod experience Suitability Porcellio ornatus High Yellow suit keepers wanting attractive, active isopods from drier habitats. Good choice for: Keepers with basic isopod experience ready for something more interesting Those maintaining drier bioactive setups Collectors interested in Spanish Porcellio species Anyone wanting visible, active display isopods Keepers who find shy, hiding species frustrating Less suited for: Complete beginners (start with hardier species) High-humidity tropical setups Those who can't provide good ventilation Keepers expecting bulletproof, mistake-tolerant species Care level: Intermediate difficulty. They're not demanding once you understand their drier preferences, but keepers accustomed to humidity-loving species may need to adjust their approach. The ventilation requirements are the opposite of what Cubaris keepers are used to. Those with experience keeping Mediterranean species will find them straightforward. Value: At £25 for 10, they offer good value for an attractive, naturally occurring morph with interesting behaviour. Their larger size and confident personality make them more engaging than smaller, shyer species. They're visually interesting without the premium pricing of rare Cubaris. What to expect: Expect active, visible isopods that actually do something worth watching. Expect attractive colouration that photographs well. Expect moderate breeding that builds colonies over time. Don't expect them to thrive in humid, poorly ventilated setups—their needs are different from tropical species. Give them the drier, airier conditions they prefer, and they'll reward you with healthy, active colonies.

An excellent addition to an isopod collection is Duboscqui Troglophila Isopods because of their unique care requirements and interesting behavior. Different from other isopod species, a low humidity environment is what Duboscqui Troglophila Isopods need to thrive and grow. Proper temperature and ventilation are required to boost your isopods’ healthy life and a balanced diet rich in nutrients. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced keeper, keeping Duboscqui Troglophila Isopods as pets is a rewarding experience. Duboscqui Troglophila Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: France and Spain Scientific Name: Porcellio duboscqui troglophila Difficulty: Easy Rarity: Not Rare Temperature: 22–26°C Size: Up to 2.8 cm Humidity: 45-55% Favourable Foods: Alder leaves, dried river shrimp, and forest humus An Overview Native to France and Spain, Duboscqui Troglophila isopods are nothing less than fascinating terrestrial crustaceans. They are not difficult to care for and are ideal for beginners and novices.  They grow up to 2.8 cm in size and prefer low humidity. To ensure they thrive better, maintain a temperature range between 22°C and 26°C.  Duboscqui Troglophila Isopods are rare, but their unique coloration makes them stand out from other isopod species. A red or orange skirt is common in most, but not all, Duboscqui Troglophila isopods.   Although care requirements are less, a well-maintained environment is essential for them to thrive. Their natural habitat boasts rocky terrains, dry leaf litter, and decomposing organic matter, so you should provide them, too. Duboscqui Troglophila Isopods: Basic Care Following the right care tips helps create a comfortable life for your isopods. Duboscqui Troglophila Isopods like a warm environment. So, maintain the temperature range between 22 °C and 26°C and keep it stable. Maintain low humidity levels, but use sphagnum moss so your isopods stay hydrated. A well-ventilated terrarium is essential for Duboscqui Troglophila Isopods. Use bark, rocks, and dried leaves to create a naturalistic habitat and hiding spots. Proper airflow prevents excessive moisture buildup, so mold or bacteria don’t grow. Duboscqui Troglophila Isopods: Feeding Decomposing organic material is essential for Duboscqui Troglophila Isopods to grow and reproduce. Provide alder leaves to mimic their natural diet and provide important nutrients. Dried river shrimp is the best choice for protein because it enhances their overall growth. Forest humus, rich in minerals, helps in digestion and general health. As for occasional supplements, give cuttlebone, as it strengthens their exoskeleton. Providing these food items regularly ensures your isopods receive the necessary nutrients. Duboscqui Troglophila Isopods: Appearance And Behaviour Duboscqui Troglophila Isopods grow up to 2.8 cm, which is large for other isopod species. Their bodies have a muted grey or brownish hue, which helps them blend into their surroundings. Some of these isopods may also have an orange or red skirt. Duboscqui Troglophila Isopods have a rough exoskeleton, which protects them from threats and also retains moisture. Active scavengers constantly searching for organic matter is what Duboscqui Troglophila Isopods do. Duboscqui Troglophila Isopods: Habitat Recreating their natural habitat helps you maintain a thriving colony. In the enclosure, mimic these conditions using the right substrate mix so your isopods are happy and healthy. Also, a dry environment and plenty of hiding spots are essential. These isopods prefer nocturnal creatures, dim lighting, or darkness. A well-structured habitat ensures your isopods are secure and exhibit natural behaviors without stress. Duboscqui Troglophila Isopods: Substrate Mix A well-balanced substrate mix provides nutrition and the right environmental conditions. The mixture should support their health and promote natural burrowing behaviors. A recommended mix includes organic compost, alder pellets, pesticide-free hardwood leaves, and oak leaves. Also, add some cork bark pieces and coconut fiber brick so your isopods live comfortably.

The Expansus Orange Isopods are a striking and robust species, known for their bright orange coloration and large size. These isopods are popular among collectors for their active behavior and adaptability in bioactive enclosures. Native to Mediterranean regions, they thrive in environments with moderate humidity and good ventilation. Their size and vibrant appearance make them a standout addition to any isopod collection, and they play a vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems by breaking down organic material. Ideal for both beginners and experienced hobbyists Expansus Orange Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Europe Scientific Name: Porcellio expansus Difficulty Level: Medium Size: 3.5 cm Rarity: Medium Temperature: 20°C to 25°C Humidity: 60% to 80% Favourite Foods: Leaves, wood, vegetables, fruits, fish flakes, and shrimp pellets Expansus Orange Isopods: An Overview Expansus Orange happens to be one of the most captivating isopod species out there. They are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Europe and are known for their stunning orange-coloured exoskeleton. This is one of the major reasons behind the popularity of these isopods among terrarium and vivarium enthusiasts. Many hobbyists keep them as pets because of their lovely colour and large size, which sets them apart from other isopods. Even though these isopods are a bit rare than other species, they can be found in different regions in Europe. The best thing about these isopods is that they are easy to care for. Unlike other isopod species, you don’t have to do much to care for them. For those who don’t know, Expansus Orange plays a crucial role in breaking down organic material, making it a great cleaner for bioactive enclosures. These isopods can thrive in a range of temperatures and humidity levels, making them more versatile than other species. If you want to keep isopods, Expansus Orange could be a great choice, especially for those with less experience with these creatures. In comparison to other isopods, Expansus Orange is more docile and social. Expansus Orange Isopods: Basic Care To keep your isopods in good health, you must follow these instructions. Here’s what you need to do: For Expansus Orange, you can use a small to medium-sized terrarium. Just make sure that it has a lid so you can prevent these tiny creatures from escaping the enclosure. Whether you choose a terrarium or a plastic container, ensure enough space for the isopods to move around. The ideal temperature range for Expansus Orange is between 20°C and 25°C, so you need to ensure that the temperature doesn’t fluctuate much. You can use a low-wattage heat lamp or heat mat to maintain a consistent temperature inside the terrarium. Humidity levels need to be between 60% and 80%. You can easily achieve this by misting the enclosure with water. Proper ventilation is also important for the terrarium; otherwise, it may get mouldy, harming your isopods. These isopods are shy in nature, so you should create hiding spots inside the enclosure. You can use stones, leaf litter, and cork bark to create multiple hiding spots for these tiny creatures. Expansus Orange Isopods: Feeding In comparison to other isopods, Expansus Orange has a much simpler diet. Since they are omnivorous, you can feed them decaying organic matter and protein-rich foods. The best food choices are fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and cucumbers. You can also give vegetation a mixture of decaying wood, leaf litter, and bark. You must also provide protein-rich foods to your isopods, especially during moulting. You can rely on food items like fish flakes, cooked chicken, and shrimp pallets. For calcium, you can give them a small piece of cuttlebone or powdered calcium. It is better to sprinkle the powder on their food so that it is easier for them to eat. Expansus Orange Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour The first thing you will notice about Expansus Orange is its striking orange-coloured exoskeleton. Plus, it is much bigger in size than other isopods. Because of these reasons, many hobbyists choose Expansus Orange over other isopods. So that you know, an adult Expansus Orange can grow up to 2 cm. They have oval-shaped bodies with proper segmentation and a hard exoskeleton that protects them from predators. In terms of behaviour, Expansus Orange are non-aggressive and peaceful. Since they are nocturnal creatures, they prefer to live in dark, damp places. They become more active at night, the perfect time to search for food and explore their surroundings. Expansus Orange Isopods: Habitat If you plan to keep Expansus Orange as pets, it is important to create a proper habitat for them. This means creating an environment similar to their natural habitat. These isopods are found under moist, decaying leaf litter, logs, and rocks in the wild. Therefore, you need to provide a substrate that can retain moisture. Since Expansus Orange thrives in humid environments, it is important to maintain high moisture levels. To this end, you should mist the substrate regularly but not overdo it. It is also important to maintain the ideal temperature between 20°C and 25°C. Additionally, you must put cork bark, stones, and other items to create a nice shelter for your isopods. These things mimic their natural environment and provide a safe hiding place when disturbed. Expansus Orange Isopods: Substrate Mix Substrates are one of the most important things to worry about when keeping isopods. You cannot just use any substrate mix you like. For Expansus Orange, you should use a substrate that can retain moisture for a long time. This will help you regulate the humidity and temperature levels inside the enclosure. Checkout our guide here for info on what we do here at PostPods for substrate. Additionally, you can add small pieces of decaying wood, which provides a place to hide. After preparing the substrate, ensure it is at least a few inches deep so your isopods can burrow. These isopods spend much time digging into the substrate to find shelter.