PostPods (187)

Like most other Armadillo Officinalis species, the Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods prefer a moist environment to thrive. They are commonly gifted isopods to isopod collection enthusiasts because of their interesting and companionable nature. These strikingly beautiful brown-coloured isopods originate from Eastern Spain. These brown pill bugs are exotic and most fascinating Armadillo species, amongst others. Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods make valuable and beloved pets. This hissing isopod can make a likeable addition to your terrarium setup. The elegant and good-natured isopods can be a little challenging to raise for beginners, but not impossible. Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Spain, Mediterranean Basin, Greece Scientific Name: Armadillo Officinalis Duméril Difficulty: Medium Rarity: Low Temperature: 65 to 75℉ Size: 2 cm Humidity: 60 to 75% Favourable Foods: Crushed eggshells, cuttlefish An Overview Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods are Spanish natives that can be delightful to raise. These brown-coloured Armadillo isopods with orange spots are calm species that are large in size. These affable isopods need a medium level of maintenance and care.    Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods grow large really fast. They are rolly polly isopods that turn themselves into a ball when threatened. These Armadillo isopods rub their legs on their exoskeleton and end up producing a hissing sound. This is why the Armadillo Officinalis Brown are called the hissing isopods.    The Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods are also Mediterranean Basin natives. They will thrive in enclosures that have one-third wet part and the rest normal. The best thing about the Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods is that they are friendly-natured.   The Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods are even Greek isopods. These humming isopods can make a splendid addition to your isopod collection. They will thrive in a moist terrarium setup. These isopods grow well in a humid environment.  These Spanish isopods are not at all rare species. They are highly socialising isopods that need a spacious environment to move around. Isopod collectors can shop for a terrarium with 5 litre capacity to store the Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods. These exemplary isopods will not reproduce in a terrarium setup that is not spacious.   Isopod collectors can add white rotten wood and lime to their substrate mix. Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods’ substrate mix can also include a soil and leaf litter mixture.   Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods is a brown-coloured morph that will thrive in a substrate mix, which includes pieces of bark and mosses. All the new collectors can take extra care of waterlogging within the terrarium. They can feed them cuttlefish and crushed eggshells to help Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods grow their shells faster. Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods: Basic Care You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to the Armadillo Officinalis Brown isopods.   Use a bioactive setup of 5 litre capacity to house the Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods. Keep the temperature within 65 to 75℉. Avoid keeping the enclosure in direct light. Maintain 60 to 75% humidity levels because the Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods thrive in medium to high humidity environments. Regularly spray the Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods terrarium setup to maintain adequate humidity levels. These fairly large isopods are easy-to-breed pets.  Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods will only reproduce in spacious terrarium setups. Keep the Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods moist always.  Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods: Feeding Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods is a charming isopod that benefits from eating crushed eggshells, limestone, and cuttlefish. These isopods are fond of eating white rotten wood.    Feed the Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods leftover animal products, especially bones. They can be fed foliage in their substrate mix. The brown isopods also consume flowers and fruits.    Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods even feed on dead wood and leaf litter. Give the Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods feeding foliage and white rotting wood to help them thrive.   Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods are nocturnal species that readily consume fish food and greens. You will also see them eating the moulting of invertebrates inside the terrarium setup. Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods: Appearance And Behavior Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods are medium-sized isopods. These brown isopods can grow as large as 2 cm. The Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods have orange spots on a brown body. Their brownish colour makes them a more attractive option over the Armadillo Red Brick isopods. These isopods curl themselves up in a ball and make a hissing sound.  These Armadillo isopods will only reproduce in a spacious terrarium setup.  Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods are active and social species. They can be seen thriving in groups within a terrarium setup.  Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods count amongst the longest-living isopods and can live up to 9 years.   These crepuscular isopods love hiding themselves during the daytime.  Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods: Habitat Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods are medium sized isopods that thrive in mediumly humid environments. These isopods take 9 months to turn from a juvenile into an adult.    The Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods are convenient to breed. They can have up to 300 young woodlice litters per year. They can survive only in tanks where humidity is maintained religiously.    The Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods are readily found on the western Black Sea coast. Enthusiasts can even look for the Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods across the Mediterranean Sea. Many people love giving the Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods to their loved ones. Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods: Substrate Mix The substrate mix of the Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods can consist of sphagnum moss and leaf litter. The presence of sphagnum moss, as well as leaf litter within a substrate mix, can help retain the moist environment within a terrarium setup.   You can even add white rotten wood and pieces of bark at the base of the terrarium setup. You can also add lime inside the substrate mix to help the Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods produce their shells faster.    The substrate mix of Armadillo Officinalis Brown Isopods can include feeding foliage. This ingredient is essential and includes things such as fallen leaves and decaying organic matter.

    • Origin:     • Scientific Name:       • Difficulty Level:     • Size:     • Rarity: Very rare     • Temperature:     • Humidity:     • Diet:    There is a reason these have the name magnificus, they are a magnificent, amazing, and in many ways breathtaking species. I own up, I don’t know who or why they were named that, but I like this idea. One of the largest readily available species in the hobby, their bright orange colouration isn't a morph or the result of line breeding. That is their natural colour.    These isopods are from a new location in the Almeria mountains. They thrive on the cliff faces of the hot and dry mountains, so they need lower humidity than many other species.    The real attraction of this species, as well as their striking size and colouration, is their behaviour. Once they have settled in and established their little territories, the females will dig a burrow for her young, standing guard over the entrance. More than willing to physically defend her offspring, even to the point of injuring other members of the colony. Add to that the males showing off and posturing to each other, and you will be forgiven for forgetting that these are seen as simpler animals. There are hours of enjoyment watching territories be established, defended, and the parental care Pocellio demonstrate.     This has to be one of the best display species in the isopod hobby, and whilst they are more of a challenge to keep, they are worth the extra space, and effort

Like most other Porcellio species, the Bolivari Lemonade Isopods prefer a less moist environment in comparison to other isopods. These fascinating isopods originate in eastern Spain. They are becoming very popular for their unique lemon and yellow hues; thus, quality Bolivari Lemonade Isopods are some of the most in-demand large species right now. These isopods make exotic pets. They breed readily in a basic isopod setup. They make a good option for beginners as well as seasoned terrarium enthusiasts. They are mostly found in caves with arid environments.  A Glimpse Origin: Eastern Spain Scientific Name: Porcellio bolivari "Lemonade" Difficulty Level: Medium Size: 3cm Rarity: High Temperature: 70°F to 80℉ Humidity: 50% to 70% Favorite Foods: Lichens, Banana Leaf, Dead Wood, Cuttlebone An Overview Bolivari Lemonade Isopods are quite rare in the uK hobby still at this time. These isopods are well-known to be a great addition to terrarium setups. They are low-maintenance pets that thrive in a less moist environment.    These natives to Spain are characterized by their completely yellow color variation, flat and broad bodies. They have a lemonade-like colouration with strong yellow highlights.    The best thing about the these Isopods is that they decompose organic matter. They can be a perfect addition for maintenance of bioactive terrariums.    They cannot tolerate stale and musty air. They should only be added to terrariums with generous ventilation areas.   These isopods feed on many different types of food, such as feeding foliage, dead wood, cuttlebone, pollen, beetle jelly, etc. They can make a captivating breed for your collection. Basic Care You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to Bolivari Lemonade Isopods. Use forest moss and feeding foliage as a ground substrate for your Bolivari Lemonade Isopods. You can use a terrarium for housing Bolivari Lemonade Isopods. Keep the temperature of the container within 70°F to 80℉. Add curved cork bark works into the terrarium to give Bolivari Lemonade Isopods something to cling to. Humidity should be no more than 50 to 70%. Avoid keeping the enclosure under direct sunlight. Bolivari Lemonade Isopods: Feeding Bolivari Lemonade Isopods are primarily detrivores. These isopods love to consume decaying wood and calcium sources such as limestone and cuttlefish bone. They are fond of forest materials such as leaf litter. They also consume cocoa leaves, Indian almond leaves, and dandelion flowers. They even feed on vegetables, salads, lichens, and banana leaves. Appearance And Behavior They are large and with elongated uropods.  Their unique appearance looks similar to large trilobites. They can make a unique highlight of your terrarium setup. These isopods come in remarkable combinations of colors and even patterns. These isopods prefer the humid mossy corner of a terrarium for recurring molting process. They can maintain a balanced ecosystem within a terrarium by their contribution to soil health and the nutrient cycle. Habitat Bolivari Lemonade Isopods prefer a less moist environment, but you will have to maintain proper ventilation for them to thrive. These classic large Spanish isopods require plenty of airflow. They are extraordinary creatures that can add a touch of natural beauty to any terrarium. These skeleton-like isopods will slowly die off in a humid environment. Substrate Mix You can add forest hummus and flake soil to the ground substrate mix. You can use a natural substrate that includes lime granulate, dead wood, shell grit, feeding foliage, and forest moss. The ground substrate for Bolivari Lemonade Isopods can also include Sphagnum moss and natural moss.

I can not stress how perfect these isopods are. Easy to take care of, amazingly adaptable, happy to feed on a wide variety of foods, large enough to be seen, and stunning with the extra yellow on their carapace. Not only that they will be more than happy in a warm room, so unless your house is really cold there is no need to have extra heat for them.    • Origin: Spain     • Scientific Name:  Armadillidium granulatum     • Difficulty Level: Low     • Size: 2.5cm     • Rarity: Low     • Temperature: 18ºC- 28ºC     • Humidity: 75% to 80%     • Diet: Leaf Litter, Repashy Bug Burger They do make a great clean-up crew, but with their larger size and bright colouration they are easy prey, but for planted terrariums, you would struggle to find a better custodian. Or set something up just for them. They are an appealing species visually, and with the right enclosure, you will have a fantastic display.  These are an isolated morph, rather than one that has occurred due to a single morph. That means that the brightest of several generations has been chosen to improve each line. As your colony increases you can also select the more colourful individuals to improve the colours in your own lines. As with all our isopods, they are captive-bred in our own home so you know you are getting good quality stock.

Highly sought-after species with dramatic yellow colouration and bold black markings. Thrives at a wider range of temperatures than most.     • Origin: Southeast Asia - largely found in tropical forests in Thailand     • Scientific Name: Cubaris. sp Yellow Tiger     • Difficulty Level: Medium     • Size: 1.2-1.5cm     • Rarity: Very Rare     • Temperature: 72-78F     • Humidity: 75-85%     • Diet:  Another relative newcomer to the world of isopod-keeping Yellow Tiger Isopods should be on any moderately experienced or experienced keepers' list of must-have isopods. With their stunning colours and growing to about 22mm, they're larger than many other species.  They need a higher humidity than some other isopods, and this may point to their origin location in caves or deep undergrowth. Coming from Thailand they share many similarities with other Cubaris species and can be shy and retiring at first, but once their numbers start to grow they will start to come out more. Get as large a group as you can, and they will start to multiply, giving you a large colony faster than you might think.  Aim to keep over half the enclosure humid and feed a varied diet based on leaf litter, Yellow Tiger Isopods are a true tropical isopod. When you think of these think of the humid jungles of Thailand, caves so big they have their own microclimates, and lush vegetation that still to this day hides secrets. Think of all the food sources that they would have access to in the wild, and try to provide something close to that. Although I'm sure you can skip the Durian.  Many isopod keepers have been introduced to the hobby by Cubaris species, but these seem to fly under the radar compared to others. They’re well worth the investment to add something a little more dramatic to your collection.

Nestled off the south eastern coast of Oman in the vast Indian Ocean, the Hallaniyat Islands are a true hidden treasure for those passionate about marine life and adventure. This remote archipelago, featuring the main islands of Al Hallaniyah and Al Sawda, is renowned for its untouched coral reefs and thriving underwater ecosystems. The islands boast huge schools of fish darting through crystal-clear waters, while lucky divers may find themselves swimming alongside majestic humpback whales, graceful manta rays, and gentle green turtles. The healthy marine life and abundant macro life make every dive a new discovery, with vibrant reefs and unexplored dive sites waiting to be revealed. Rugged and wild, the Hallaniyat Islands offer a rare opportunity to experience nature in its purest form, making them a must-visit destination for divers and explorers seeking the extraordinary. Geography and Climate of Southern Oman Southern Oman, home to the Hallaniyat Islands, is a region defined by dramatic landscapes and a unique climate. The coastline is marked by striking coastal cliffs and stretches of golden sand, with the Dhofar Mountains rising steeply from the sea. The Arabian Sea laps against the rugged shoreline, nurturing a rich tapestry of coral reefs, soft corals, and diverse fish species. Much like the famed Musandam Peninsula, the mainland features sheer cliffs that plunge into the sea, while inland, peaks soar above 2,000 meters, sheltering deep valleys and lush, high-altitude forests. The climate here is generally warm, with a distinct monsoon season that brings life to the region during the summer months. This blend of dramatic geography and favorable climate creates an environment teeming with marine life, making southern Oman a paradise for divers, nature lovers, and anyone eager to explore one of the world’s last untouched coastlines. Diving and Exploration with Oman Explorer For those seeking to truly immerse themselves in the wonders of the Hallaniyat Islands, diving with Oman Explorer is an experience like no other. This modern liveaboard vessel is designed for comfort and adventure, taking divers to some of the most remote and pristine dive sites in the Arabian Sea. From vibrant coral reefs to mysterious wrecks, each site offers a glimpse into the healthy marine life that thrives in these untouched waters. The Oman Explorer’s expert crew ensures every dive is safe and memorable, with opportunities for night dives that reveal a whole new world beneath the waves. Divers can expect encounters with humpback whales, playful dolphins, and elegant manta rays, all set against a backdrop of colorful corals and abundant fish life. With convenient access from Muscat airport and the option of a comfortable hotel stay in the city, Oman Explorer makes it easy to discover the hidden gems of Oman’s southern coast, all while supporting sustainable and responsible diving practices. Hallaniyat Island 'Oman' Isopods (Periscyphis sp) in the Arabian Sea £100.00                A rare desert isopod that will thrive in a drier enclosure. Origin: Warm desert islands off the coast of Oman. Scientific Name:  Periscyphis sp Difficulty Level Size: 1.7cm Rarity: Rate Temperature: 24-27ºC Humidity: Low Diet: All the usuals however these tend to like fish flake a lot in particular  The Hallaniyat Islands rise out of the Indian Ocean, granite chimneys' surrounded by limestone bluffs, and rocky arid landscapes. Hot and dry for most of the year, only during Khareef, a windy foggy period from mid March to mid September, does the humidity increase as the fog rolls in from the ocean. Little plant life and arid conditions in their natural range make these isopods a real rarity. Unlike most species that need higher humidity to allow them to breathe, these can thrive in low humidity. A great clean-up crew for Bearded Dragon enclosures, a variety of gecko enclosures, and many desert species. Also perfect to add to a dryer terrarium, such as those with desert-loving air plants, cacti, aloe, and other succulents.  UNESCO has outlined a plan to make the Hallaniyat Islands a national park, meaning that the collecting of these species will be restricted or even stopped, luckily we have fantastic breeding stock, but it's likely in the future these may become difficult to buy in the UK.   With less than 10cm of rain annually in their native range, keeping Hallaniyat Island 'Oman' Isopods can be straightforward. A simple misting in one corner of the enclosure every so often can be all they need in terms of water. Watch their behaviour and if they're gathering close to the wet area increase the misting slightly.  They need to be kept warm, 24-27ºC. If kept in a bioactive terrarium with a temperature and humidity gradient then they will find their ideal temperature. In the wild they only come out at night and gather in large groups, this is likely to avoid the hot daytime temperatures, in your enclosure you may be lucky to see a group of these starting to gather in the evening as they get bolder.   In their natural habitat there are low levels of plant life, but lots of bird guano, but they are relatively flexible in terms of feeding. Make sure the protein levels are adequate, with foods such as fish pellets, and similar. Ensure they have a place that mimics their natural rocky habitats, and consider adding mosses as many species grow in their natural range. A rare, slightly challenging, but very rewarding species of isopod that will make a great addition to your collection. Isopod Species and Conservation Beyond their stunning reefs and charismatic megafauna, the Hallaniyat Islands are also home to a fascinating array of isopod species. These small but vital crustaceans play a key role in the health of coral reefs, breaking down organic matter and recycling nutrients to support the broader marine ecosystem. However, like many marine species, isopods face growing threats from climate change, pollution, and overfishing. Recognizing the importance of these creatures, the Oman government and conservation organizations are working together to protect the islands’ delicate reefs and the diverse marine life they support. Divers and visitors can help by supporting sustainable tourism and conservation initiatives, ensuring that the unique species of the Hallaniyat Islands—including their rare isopods—continue to thrive for generations to come. Tourism and Sustainability Tourism in the Hallaniyat Islands is still in its infancy, offering a rare chance to experience a truly untouched natural paradise. The Oman government has taken proactive steps to ensure that this growth is sustainable, establishing marine protected areas and implementing strict regulations on fishing and diving. Eco-friendly liveaboard vessels like the Oman Aggressor provide a comfortable and responsible way to explore the islands, with a strong emphasis on minimizing environmental impact and supporting local conservation efforts. By choosing responsible tour operators, respecting local guidelines, and participating in conservation programs, visitors can help preserve the islands’ pristine marine life and natural beauty. Sustainable tourism ensures that the Hallaniyat Islands remain a haven for discovery, allowing future generations to explore, enjoy, and protect this remarkable corner of Oman.

Hoffmannseggii White Antenna Isopods are a stunning variant of the Titan Isopods, distinguished by their white antennae and vibrant exoskeleton. Like their counterparts, they are among the largest terrestrial isopods, thriving in drier, well-ventilated environments. This morph is highly sought after for its unique appearance and territorial nature. They feed on detritus like decaying wood and require calcium and protein-rich supplements for optimal health. These isopods need a controlled environment with a mix of moist and dry areas to thrive in captivity. Porcellio hoffmannseggii Isopods: 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 White Anetenna Isopods: Abstract Porcellio hoffmannseggii white atenna isopods are native to the Mediterranean regions of Spain. Even though they're from the Mediterranean area, these species prefer less moisture. These species have a regular colour, which is grey with white skirts. But there are various coloured morphs for this species. 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. Porcellio hoffmannseggii White Antenna Isopods: Nutrition Porcellio Hoffmannseggii 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 the isopods. 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 White Anetenna 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 white antenna 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 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 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 white anetenna isopods. This captive environment makes the Titan Isopods flourish in this artificial one.