PostPods (187)

Introducing the Armadillidium Frontetriangulum Corfu Isopods, a striking and unique isopod species perfect for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Known for its characteristic triangular head pattern and robust body, this species stands out with its fascinating appearance and behavior. Native to Mediterranean regions, the Armadillidium Frontetriangulum is well-suited for bioactive setups, thriving in environments with varied humidity levels. Its captivating look and relatively easy care make it an excellent addition to any isopod collection A Glimpse Origin: Greek Island Scientific Name: Frontetriangulum corfuensis Difficulty Level: Moderate Size: Up to 2 to 3 cm Rarity: Rare Temperature: 20°C to 25°C Humidity: 70% to 80% Favourite Food: Decomposing leaves, wood, fish flakes An Overview Frontetriangulum Corfu isopods are famous for their unique appearance and behaviour. They thrive in lush, moist environments, and the island's rich biodiversity offers a unique habitat for them. Regarding their appearance, Frontetriangulum Corfu isopods have flattened bodies and are available in different colours. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem by breaking down decomposed matter and contributing to nutrient cycling. When kept in captivity, they serve as excellent scavengers and help to maintain a clean environment. This means you don't have to clean the terrarium regularly. Frontetriangulum Corfu Isopods: Basic Care You must follow the instructions to take care of Frontetriangulum Corfu isopods. To keep Frontetriangulum Corfu isopods as pets, you must provide them with a spacious enclosure. In this case, you can use a large terrarium so that they have enough space to move around. The best option would be a 20-gallon tank, which can easily accommodate a small colony of isopods. When choosing a terrarium for your isopods, ensure it has a good ventilation system so air can pass through it properly. This will also help prevent the growth of mould within the enclosure. The ideal temperature range is between 20°C and 25°C. You can maintain this temperature by using heater pads but do not overheat the terrarium, as this can harm your isopods. It is important to check the temperature inside the terrarium regularly. You can use a thermometer for this. To maintain the right humidity level, you should mist the substrate regularly or place a water dish inside the enclosure. This will achieve 70% and 80% humidity, respectively. With the help of a hygrometer, you can measure the humidity level inside the terrarium. To mimic the natural habitat for your isopods, you can use coconut coir, leaf litter, and sand. This substrate mix not only helps retain moisture but also allows the isopods to burrow. Frontetriangulum Corfu Isopods: Feeding When it comes to feeding Frontetriangulum Corfu isopods, you must provide them with a balanced diet consisting of various items. For their primary diet, you can provide decaying leaves and wood. Even oak leaves are a great choice; they break down slowly and provide essential nutrients. You can provide small amounts of fish flakes or other isopod foods to fulfil their protein requirements. This is a good way to enhance their reproductive function and growth. Some people think that overfeeding isopods makes them healthier, but that is not the case. It is important to provide the correct amount of food and keep them well. You should also remove uneaten food from the terrarium so they don't end up eating too much. This way, you can maintain a clean environment and prevent mould growth inside the enclosure. Feeding fresh vegetables to your isopods can benefit their health in many ways. You can offer small pieces of veggies like carrots or zucchini occasionally. Frontetriangulum Corfu Isopods: Appearance And Behaviour Frontetriangulum Corfu isopods have a unique appearance, which makes them more attractive than other isopod species. These isopods have a flat body with a smooth surface. They are also available in a wide range of colours, including brown and green. Due to their body's unique colouration, they can easily blend into their natural surroundings. In other words, it helps them to camouflage and protect themselves against predators. Frontetriangulum Corfu isopods are quite social and prefer to live in colonies. An interesting thing about these isopods is that they are nocturnal, meaning they are not active during the day. These isopods require hiding places like leaf litter or substrate, where they can sleep and relax. Frontetriangulum Corfu Isopods: Habitat To keep your isopods healthy, it is essential to mimic their natural habitat. Frontetriangulum Corfu isopods thrive in moist, shaded areas where there's no sunlight. You can create a similar environment for your isopods by using leaf litter and decomposing wood. You will likely find various options when choosing a terrarium for your isopods. But you should choose a model that offers both vertical and horizontal space. Once you have the terrarium, you can add hiding spots for your isopods by using bark, rocks, and live plants. This way, you can mimic their natural environment and also provide security. You can add a small dish of water to provide moisture and maintain the correct humidity levels. For light, you can use a daylight bulb, which helps simulate the natural day/night cycle. But make sure not to overheat or dry out the substrate. Frontetriangulum Corfu Isopods: Substrate Mix Creating the right substrate mix is crucial for the well-being of your isopods. It helps retain moisture and provides a natural environment for burrowing. One of the best substrate bases is coconut coir, which retains moisture well and provides a soft surface for the isopods to move through. You must also add a mix of dried leaves so your isopods can use it as a hiding place. You should also add a small amount of sand or organic soil to help improve the drainage system. When setting up the terrarium for your isopods, place coconut coir at the bottom and leaf litter on top. This will create a thriving environment for your tiny pets and encourage their natural behaviours, which also mean that their life expectancy will extend further.

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: Easy 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.

Phoenix Isopods have their origin in Vietnam. Their name is based on their appearance. They exhibit the colour variations of red, black and yellow, which are predominant in the mythical bird phoenix. They are considered a superb display species. They are extremely rare to find. Once they are established in the enclosure, they can easily be bred. Care needs to be taken regarding the enclosure, as these species are more active than most other species of isopods. Key Points Origin: Vietnam Scientific Name: Merulanells sp. Phoenix Difficulty Level: Easy Size: 2CM Max. Rarity: Extremely Rare Temperature: 18-24˚C Humidity Level: Medium Preferred Foods: Leaf litter, decayed wood, cuttlefish bone, limestone, etc. An Overview Phoenix Isopods are a highly colourful species of isopods. The hard exoskeleton provides both protection and aesthetic appeal to these isopods. The colouration of the exoskeleton makes them a significant choice for the enclosures. They are a highly active category of species. They need large spaces within the enclosures to move around. They have a very similar appearance to that of Merulanella tricolor isopods. But they are different in several aspects. The original climate these species are accustomed to is tropical. Hence, they require moisture and plenty of ventilation to survive in an enclosure. They can tolerate humid environments easily. Care should be taken because their temperatures should stay high enough and stay cool. Phoenix isopods are extremely rare to find. Hence, they are a species of isopods in demand by several collectors. Once established in a vivarium, they breed comparatively similar to most other species of isopods. The general pattern followed by merulanella isopods for feeding must also be followed for Phoenix isopods. Hence, decaying wood and leaf litter forms the basic diet for these isopods. Cuttlefish bone, fish food, limestone, etc., can act as supplements to improve their growth. Phoenix Isopods: Basic Care Phoenix Isopods can be taken care of through the following points: The tropical origin of Phoenix isopods allows them to survive in hot environments. They can also withstand some amount of coldness. Isopods coming from tropical environments require moisture to stay close to their origins. Phoenix isopods require a solid enclosure, and they are extremely rare to find. Hence, they are an advanced species for seasoned collectors. Their breeding capability is at par with most other species of isopods. Due to their tropical origins, Phoenix isopods require a great level of ventilation. Burrowing is a popular practice with these isopods. Hence, they prefer to have hiding spots within their enclosure. Preferred diet choices include leaf litter, decaying wood, cuttlefish bone, fish bone, etc. The ideal room temperature for these species ranges between 18-24˚C. Phoenix Isopods: Feeding This particular species of isopods has a variety of food items to choose from. Even though they are considered an advanced species that is extremely rare to find, they are found under tropical conditions. Hence, their staple diets includes both leaf litter and decaying wood. Their dietary patterns are similar to many other species of isopods. A perfect environment should complement the diet these isopods follow in their consumption. Leaf litter and decaying wood are ideal for their consumption. These basic items are helpful for the longer survival of these isopods. The collector can provide additional supplements according to their own choice. The only factor to note is that it should be provided regularly. Vegetable peels, dried vegetables, fish food, etc., can be provided for these isopods regularly. They find moisture levels okay for their survival. But it should not exceed the levels of possible mold growth. Protein and calcium supplements can be provided depending on the collector's requirements. Cuttlefish bone, limestone, and fish food are all excellent supplements that can help these species of isopods grow well. Many of these products can be collected naturally or bought from diverse sources. Phoenix Isopods are considered a very active species of isopods. They require large, spaced enclosures to scourge the area actively. Ventilation is another vital aspect that must be noted before breeding these species. Phoenix Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour Like many other isopods, phoenix isopods are also gifted with hard exoskeletons. The exoskeletons are both protective and exotic. They have the maximum growth close to 2 CM. Their exotic appearance is a gift of their diverse coloured patterns. This appearance makes them a species that is in high demand. They require a lot of ventilation in the space that they are kept. This is mainly due to their natural environment being tropical. Moisture retention is also considered a vital aspect of caring for these isopods. They breed at good rates once established. Phoenix Isopods: Habitat Habitats are crucial aspects for the development of any isopods. As these are collected species from natural environments, the enclosures where they are kept should be replicated similarly to their origins. Providing basic habitat is a relatively easy task for any collectors. Phoenix isopods are extremely rare to find, even within their original habitats. But they are a species that can be maintained easily. Ensuring a proper habitat will result in more isopods breeding faster. Humid environments are highly preferred by Phoenix isopods. As their origin is tropical, they can tolerate room temperature easily. A thermometer should be regularly used to assess the room temperature of the habitat. An important factor is that the temperature should not exceed or decrease beyond the expected level of 18-24⁰C. It can adversely affect their metabolism. Maintaining moisture within the enclosure is a practice that should be kept for the ideal survival of these species. Supported by a number of hiding spots can enable the strong breeding of phoenix isopods in large numbers. Phoenix isopods are a heavily active species of isopods. Providing them ample space within the enclosure is crucial for their breeding. Phoenix Isopods: Substrate Mix Just like every other isopod, substrate mixtures are available for Phoenix isopods as well. Both natural substrates and artificial substrates are available for these isopods. Some of the options for a natural substrate mix include- leaf litter, decaying wood, dried vegetables, etc. Artificial substrate mixtures will consist of both protein and calcium supplements that can enhance their growth. The most important factor to consider in utilizing substrates is that it should ensure the survival of all species within the enclosure. Substrates should not hinder the development of any other species. Natural supplements like leaf litter and decaying wood should be completely pesticide-free to ensure that no toxic chemicals are present within the environment. Burrowing is a popular activity within these species. Hence, providing ample hiding spots is important for their breeding. As part of their protein and calcium supplements in substrate, cuttlefish bone, fish food, limestone etc., should be provided. These food items can improve their growth to greater levels. 

Compared to other isopods, Ardentiella tricolour isopods are rarely sighted. They require warmer temperatures and stable environments for their survival. They make a brilliant display species. Tricolour Isopods: A Glimpse ·       Origin: Vietnam ·       Scientific Name: Merulanella sp. ·       Difficulty Level: Medium ·       Size: 13MM to 0.55 IN. ·       Rarity: Low/ Medium ·       Temperature: 20⁰C to 26⁰C ·       Humidity: 60-70% ·       Favourite Foods: Fruits, Vegetables Tricolour Isopods: An Overview Merulanella Tricolour Isopods are a species of terrestrial isopods. They are commonly called pill bugs or woodlice. As the name suggests, they have a very peculiar colouration. They are highly distinct from other species of isopods. They mostly have a tricolour pattern, which includes shades of yellow, black and red. A hard exoskeleton covers their oval-shaped body. They are gifted two pairs of antennae. They have seven pairs of legs. Their natural habitat is found to be around tropical and subtropical regions. Their distribution is thus minimal. They are most likely found in the tropical areas. This limitation in their distribution makes them a less-encountered species of isopods. To feed tricolour isopods, the best options are a mix of vegetables, fruits, and decaying leaves. Fish flakes and commercial isopod food can be provided as supplement feeds. They rely on moist environments for their survival. Tricolour Isopods: Basic Care The following instructions can be helpful in providing the best care for Tricolour isopods. ·       Provide a suitable habitat- Combining organic materials like sphagnum moss, leaf litter and coconut fibre can create a moist substrate ideal for their habitat. ·       Maintaining dampness-Excessive moisture should be avoided as it is harmful for tricolour isopods. ·       Hiding spots- This provides more naturality to the enclosure. They behave more naturally when they feel secure. ·       Temperature- An ideal temperature of 20-26 degree should be maintained. ·       Humidity- Humidity levels should be between 60-70%. ·       Diet- A balanced diet plant matter, invertibrates and fungi should be fed to the isopods to ensure their survival. ·       Specialized diets available in the market can be used to feed them. ·       Monitor the conditions regularly using thermometer and hygrometer. ·       Since they can climb glass and plastic, their enclosures should not have openings near the lids and doors. Tricolour Isopods: Feeding Tricolour isopods are mainly identified as detritivores. They consume organic decaying matter. They can also feed on fruits, vegetables, leaf litter, rotting wood, etc. They are crucial in breaking down dead plant material, contributing to nutrient recycling. To ensure their survival, providing them with an optimal environment is crucial. Leaf litter can be considered an easy source of food. Leaves from different trees can be collected and fed to them in their enclosures. One of the main things to notice while feeding isopods is that the leaves should be pesticide-free. Other organic materials like fruits and vegetables are also considered ideal sources of energy for these isopods. Any food given has to be finely chopped or grated for easy consumption by isopods. Tricolour isopods prefer protein rich foods as well. Crushed dog or cat food, shrimp pellets and fish are highly recommended for the welfare of the isopods. Excess consumption should be avoided in any case. If it happens, it might lead to specific health issues among them. Whatever food the isopods consume, leftovers should be removed immediately. Mold can develop in leftover food, which can cause health issues among the tricolour isopods. Tricolour Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour ·       Tricolour isopods grow up to 0.55 Inches in length. ·       The species' major color combinations are red, yellow and black. ·       They make for a great display. ·       They are found in groups of five to six. ·       They require more warmer temperatures when compared to other isopod species. ·       If kept under optimal conditions, they are adorable as pets. ·       Once a colony is established for them, they live for a considerable period. ·       Tricolour isopods are considered as prolific breeders. A single female produces a large number of females. ·       Monitoring the reproductive patterns of these isopods is vital, as they are considered vulnerable in their reproductive phase. Tricolour Isopods: Habitat Providing an ideal habitat for tricolour isopods is fundamental for their survival. As pets, they make for a great display. An optimal environment has to be maintained in their enclosures to maintain their beautiful features and colour-patterns in their body. Tricolour isopods survive in the ideal temperature of 20-27⁰C (70-78⁰F). Any temperature above or below this temperature can mess with their metabolism. Regular monitoring of temperature is required to maintain the optimal levels of temperature. The use of a thermometer is preferred for this. It is highly advised to use a heat map or heat lamp to regulate the levels. People who make enclosures for tricolour isopods should also consider the required humidity levels. The ideal humidity level for the species is between 70-80%. A humidifier should be used to mist the enclosure daily. At the same time, excess moisture should be avoided. If the enclosure is moisturized excessively, mold growth might occur, which is harmful for the tricolour isopods. Along with a humidifier, a hygrometer should also be used to maintain the optimal humidity range. Tricolour isopods are omnivorous creatures. They feed on a variety of organic matter, including decayed fruits and vegetables, shrimp pellets, fish, etc. They are known for their ability to crawl on both glass and plastic. Hence, the tiny gaps that might appear between doors and glasses should be sealed. Tricolour Isopods: Substrate Mix A substrate is an ideal substance that aids the growth of an organism. It can help provide or maintain the optimal environment for your pet creatures. In the case of tricolour isopods, using the correct substrate mixture is crucial. The mixture should be provided accordingly since these isopods are mainly found in tropical climatic conditions. Tricolour isopods require a substrate that retains moisture. Leaf litter is seen as the most ideal form of substrate for this purpose. Leaves can be easily collected from a variety of trees to provide the ideal shelter for tricolour isopods. However, these leaves should be free of pesticides or chemicals. Additionally, sphagnum moss and coconut fiber can be utilized for their survival. In their ideal condition, hiding spots are also necessary. This substrate mixture of coconut fibre, leaf litter, and sphagnum moss offers natural hiding spots for the isopods. This creates a homely feeling for the isopods, who feel that they are in their natural habitats. Too much dampening of the substrate mix is not advisable in any enclosures. Care should be taken when using substrate mix, as it could cause waterlogging. Such scenarios should be avoided at all costs to ensure the survival of tricolour isopods.

Originally from Montenegro, Klugii Pudding Isopods are increasingly becoming popular as a cleanup crew member. The beginner-friendly Armadillidium isopods have a distinctive appearance that can generate curiosity in the minds of their potential pet owners. Their pudding-like appearance and bioactive potential make them a great fit for terrariums. These small-sized species can thrive in terrariums with low humidity. They are highly sought-after isopods in comparison to other isopods. These beautifully patterned species can make a valuable addition to an isopod enthusiast’s collection. These exotic and low-maintenance isopods can be bred as pets by newbies. Kluggi Pudding Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Montenegro Scientific Name: Armadillidium Kluggi Difficulty Level: Low Rarity: High Temperature: 70 to 90℉ Size: 2.1cm Humidity: 40% to 50% Favorite Foods: Plant matter, mushrooms, pulverized grains An Overview Kluggi Pudding Isopods are also famously renowned by the name Armadillidium Kluggi. This easy-to-care for isopods can be raised by beginners and enthusiasts alike. These Montenegro-based isopods have been categorized by their bioactive potential. They are kid-friendly isopods. They thrive in low humid environments.  Kluggi Pudding Isopods appear deadly due to their white and yellow spots on a dark brown body. They look venomous, but they make safe pets. The notable thing about them is that they display no red markings, unlike Meteraninan Black Widow (Spider). The small-sized Kluggi Pudding Isopods can be perfectly combined with springtails. This bioactive combination can keep the environment inside a terrarium clean. Kluggi Pudding Isopods loves eating magnolia pods as well as leaves.  Kluggi Pudding Isopods should be fed a balanced recipe of proteins and plant matter. They need a semi-arid and temperate environment to grow.  Basic Care You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to Kluggi Pudding Isopods. Kluggi Pudding Isopods need a reasonably ventilated enclosure to grow.  Kluggi Pudding Isopods are relatively easy to handle. They can be taken care of even by first-time isopod owners. These isopods shouldn’t be kept with predators because they can be eaten by invertebrates and reptiles.  These isopods cannot survive in wet environments. They enjoy occasional misting and warm temperatures.  Feeding Kluggi Pudding Isopods Kluggi Pudding Isopods feed on leaf powder, cuttlebone, and carrots. Some other common foods that Kluggi Pudding Isopods prefer to eat include potatoes and squash. You can feed a balanced combination of plant matter and proteins to them. You can always feed them decaying hardwood. Appearance And Behavior Kluggi Pudding Isopods do not have red spots like the Meteraninan Black Widow spider, but it does resemble it due to the white and yellow spots on its dark brown body. The female Kluggi Pudding Isopods have a white cavity between their legs that develops when they reach adulthood.  Female Kluggi Pudding Isopods are larger in size than male Kluggi Pudding Isopods. The male Kluggi Pudding Isopods do not have white cavities like the female Kluggi Pudding Isopods. The behaviour of Kluggi Pudding Isopods is non-docile. They are also not aggressive. Habitat Kluggi Pudding Isopods prefer dry, temperate, and less humid environments. You can use a reasonably-sized plastic terrarium to house them. The Kluggi Pudding Isopods are established quickly in a semi-arid vivarium or terrarium. These isopods have issues living in an extremely wet environment. Substrate Mix The substrate mix of Kluggi Pudding Isopods includes wet sphagnum moss, leaf litter, and bark. Keep the middle of the substrate moist. You can keep the opposite side of the substrate mix dry by adding only leaf litter on that side of the substrate. This substrate mix will give Kluggi Pudding Isopods essential space to osmoregulate.

Compared to other isopods, Klugii Dubrovnik isopods are easily sighted. They are mostly found in coastal regions, where they receive wind and sunlight in ample amounts. They are a brilliant display species. Klugii Dubrovnik Isopods: A Glimpse ·       Origin: Croatia   ·       Scientific Name: Armadillidium Klugii   ·       Difficulty Level: Medium   ·       Size: 2.1CM.   ·       Rarity: Medium   ·       Temperature: 75F-90F   ·       Humidity: 50-70%   ·       Favourite Foods: Leaf litter, carrot, fish food, dried shrimp Klugii Dubrovnik Isopods: An Overview Klugii Dubrovnik Isopods received their name because of their origin. They are mostly found in Croatia's coastal region. Their origin spreads across the Adriatic Sea, from Croatia to Montenegro. New findings have located them in southern Albania and Western Greece. They are nicknamed 'Clown' Isopods for their colouration. Klugii isopods are named for the variety of colours they come in. From yellow to creamy whites, they are found in many colours. Their colouration is considered one of their defence mechanisms against predators, too. They have very hard skeletons covering their bodies, adding extra protection. Dubrovnik isopods have red edges on their exoskeletons. They display higher levels of red colouration over their bodies. Klugii isopods can be fed a variety of foods. In the fiber-based category, they can feed on decaying hard wood and leaf litter. In the vegetable-based category, they can be fed sweet potatoes, dried peas/beans, and mushrooms. For protein, they can be fed insect frass, yeast, and shrimp pellets. Klugii Dubrovnik Isopods: Basic Care The following instructions can be helpful in providing the best care for Klugii Dubrovnik isopods. ·       The temperature condition should have moderate humidity, which is ideal for them. ·       They need both dry side and damp sides in their enclosures. ·       The middle portion of the enclosure should have a balance between the two sides. ·       In fresh culturing, they might be little slow to begin their growth. ·       For terrariums/vivariums of any kind, it is advised to culture them separately. ·       The habitat or enclosure in which they are kept will require convenient ventilation. ·       They prefer to burrow in their habitats than climb anywhere, making them relatively safer keep inside. ·       They prefer to feed on- decayed wood, leaf litter, shrimp pellets, yeast, mushrooms etc. ·       Room temperature of 70-85⁰F is the most ideal environment for them to thrive. ·       Humidity levels have to be maintained at 50-70%. Klugii Dubrovnik Isopods: Feeding Much like other types of isopods, like tricolour isopods, Klugii Dubrovnik isopods are also considered as detritivores. That means they feed on leaf litter, decaying wood, dried beans/peas, mushrooms, shrimp pellets, etc. Decaying leaf litters and softwoods are still considered as their standard diet. Their diet can easily be supplemented with leftover vegetable scraps from the kitchen. But drier things are highly preferred to prevent unwanted mold development. Mold can be harmful to these isopods and can deteriorate their health drastically. They tend to enjoy higher protein and calcium in their daily diets. Fiber based food sources for them include- decaying hardwood, magnolia pods, leaf litter, etc. Vegetable based diet includes- sweet potato, mushrooms, dried peas/beans, and any other dry leftover scraps. Shrimp meal, insect frass, dried fish, cuttle bones, eggshells, oyster shells, etc., are good protein supplements for their growth. These foods can be chopped as well for their easy consumption. Klugii Dubrovnik isopods tend to eat soft plants and mosses as snacks. Experts recommend feeding them these plants now and then to promote their growth. However, they should be kept away from plants that you grow. Any leftover foods in the enclosure should be removed immediately to prevent mold growth. Klugii Dubrovnik Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour ·       They have a hard exoskeleton. ·       The have a highly calcified body. ·       They are well known for their spots and unique colours. ·       They are found in various colours- red, yellow, green, creamy white etc. ·       They are comparatively small and grows a maximum of 2.1 Cm in length. ·       They are mostly found on Croatia's coasts and are currently found across the Adriatic Sea. ·       They prefer to burrow in their enclosures rather than climb anywhere. ·       They prefer both moist and dry atmospheres. Hence, the enclosures have to be maintained accordingly. ·       Female Klugii Dubrovnik isopods are found to have a cavity between their legs. ·       Males do not have any cavity. ·       Female isopods tend to be larger than males. ·       Their breeding pattern needs to checked weekly as a routine. Klugii Dubrovnik Isopods: Habitat Providing an ideal habitat for Klugii Dubrovnik isopods is fundamental for their survival. As pets, they make great displays in acrylic or glass terrariums. However, to maintain their beautiful features and colour patterns, an optimal environment has to be kept in their enclosures. The ideal temperature for Klugii Dubrovnik is between 70-85⁰F. Temperatures above and below these levels will surely affect their metabolism and eventually kill them. One can use thermometers to check the temperature levels regularly. But since they survive in room temperature easily, their maintenance is comparatively easier than that of other species of isopods. These isopods can be brilliantly displayed in acrylic or glass enclosures. Plastic containers are considered a relatively cheaper alternative but are not recommended because of their lesser visibility. Also, they may not be the right aesthetics to display the vibrant colours Klugii Dubrovnik isopods come in. They are relatively slow to begin their growth in new environments. Hence, providing an enclosure close to their natural habitat ensures their survival. A shoebox-sized container would be the ideal choice to keep these isopods. They are medium-sized compared to other isopods. But an essential aspect of their existence in containers is ventilation. They are initially from places that are sunny and windy simultaneously. Hence, a lot of air circulation needs to be maintained. Drilling holes around the container is highly recommended. Klugii Dubrovnik Isopods: Substrate Mix A substrate can be defined as a mixture of ideal substances that aids growth of the organism. It can help provide or maintain the optimal environment for your pet creatures. In the case of Klugii Dubrovnik isopods, providing the ideal condition in their enclosures is relatively more straightforward when compared to other species. Only ventilation must be maintained, as it is mainly found in coastal regions. Klugii Dubrovnik isopods require a substrate mixture that maintains dry and moist conditions. The ideal substrate mix is leaf litter and decaying woods. Leaves are a good source of substrate that can easily be collected from any tree. They should be free from any pesticides or chemicals. Sphagnum moss and coco coir can be utilised additionally to supplement the enclosure. There is no risk of escape from Klugii Dubrovnik isopods. They prefer to burrow in their enclosures rather than climb the walls of the enclosure. Hence, providing a mixture of decaying woods, leaf litter, and vegetable scraps can ensure they stay in their optimal environment. Creating a wet area within the enclosure is also highly recommended by many. Too much moisture can enable mold growth which is harmful for these isopods. Care should be taken in using substrate mix, as they could cause either waterlogging or too much dampening. Such scenarios should be avoided at any costs, to ensure the survival of Klugii Dubrovnik isopods.

Dwarf white isopods, or Trichorhina Tomatosa, are a widespread species of isopods available for culturing. They are seen as relatively easy to maintain. They are also considered as a suitable clean-up species of isopods.   A Glimpse ·       Origin: Central America ·       Scientific Name: Trichorhina Tomatosa ·       Difficulty Level: Low  ·       Size: 0.5 CM. ·       Rarity: Low ·       Temperature: 70F-85F ·       Humidity: 70-80% ·       Favourite Foods: Leaf litter, carrot, decomposing driftwood, cucumber, etc.   An Overview As the name suggests, dwarf white isopods are a tiny species of isopods originating from the central American Continent. They are otherwise known as Trichorhina Tomatosa. While other isopods are mainly collected for their display abilities, Dwarf white isopods are mainly kept for their utility. Many isopod breeders describe them as 'tank janitors’. As part of their leading utility, they are found to have immense appetite. They have bright white colouring in their body. This makes them relatively easy to locate. They are tiny in size. They do not grow more than five centimetres in their life. They are mostly regarded as part of 'clean up' crew, because of their appetite. In addition to this, they are also considered as excellent feeders for other reptiles in bioactive setup. Dwarf white isopods can be fed various foods as part of their growth. They mostly feed on decomposing wood and leaf litter. Among vegetables, they prefer carrots and cucumbers. They can also be fed fruits and vegetables, but they risk creating mold growth in the enclosure. Basic Care The following instructions can be helpful in providing the best care for Dwarf White isopods. ·       They survive in relatively high humid settings compared to other species of isopods. ·       They thrive better in warmer conditions. ·       To maintain optimal conditions, humidity levels should be kept between 70-80%. ·       They can survive in room temperatures, between 70-85⁰F. ·       They are relatively easy to collect. ·       They can be easily cultured in enclosures. ·       They are considered as prolific breeders. Hence, they grow in large numbers in vivariums or terrariums. ·       They are relatively easy to feed when compared to other species. ·       They can feed on decomposing wood, leaf litters, vegetable scraps, fruits etc. ·       They are not considered as an attractive brand of species. They have only one colour across their body-white. ·       White colouration makes them relatively easy to locate within their enclosures. ·       They do not prefer to climb their enclosures. They like to burrow rather than climb. Feeding Like many other species of isopods, dwarf white isopods feed on multiple substances for their survival. They feed on leaf litter and decaying woods, abundant in tropical climates. At the same time, in their enclosures, they can be fed vegetable scraps, carrots, cucumbers, etc. Decaying driftwoods and leaf litters are the best supplement choices for optimal growth. In vegetables they prefer carrot and cucumber as their food. It is also advised to provide them with fruits scraps as well. But the risk of mold growth can be a problem in feeding fruits to them. As long as there is no risk of mold growth in the food provided, fruits are an acceptable option. A peculiar feature of these isopods is that they also tend to feed on animal droppings. When they consume animal droppings as part of their diet, they turn waste into nutrients. They also prefer lots of proteins as part of their diet. Dried shrimp can be an ideal source for them to feed on. Their size can make the breeders doubt their ability to consume food. But the ability to consume large quantities of food makes Dwarf white isopods stand out from other species of isopods. They help maintain their enclosures cleaner by offering more decomposition to the items.  Dwarf White Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour ·       They are one among the tiniest species of isopods. ·       They do not grow more than 0.5 cms. ·       They come in only one variety of colour- white. ·       They can be easily spotted because of their colouration. ·       They are relatively easy to find when compared to other species. ·       They are found across central America. ·       The are also found in many other tropical conditions. ·       They are considered to be adaptable to any conditions in many ways. ·       All adult isopods in the dwarf white species can produce offsprings. ·       They are considered as prolific breeders. ·       They prefer to burrow in their natural habitats. ·       They offer themselves as feeder insect for larger animals like frogs. ·       They act as ‘clean-up’ agents, where their large numbers and appetite can compensate for their lack of size. ·       They help keep the vivariums clean and healthy.  Dwarf White Isopods: Habitat When out of their natural habitats, Isopods require the best of their natural environment for survival. Hence, providing the optimal conditions for their survival is an essential requirement for any breeders. Maintaining the most convenient environment in their enclosures can be helpful in the growth of Dwarf white isopods. The ideal temperature for the growth of Dwarf white isopods is between 70-85⁰F. That means they survive well in room temperatures. Temperatures below or above these levels can affect their ability to adapt in many ways. Adaptability is one of the highlight features of this type of species. They are comparatively easier to maintain than other species of isopods. Due to their extremely small size, there is no need for larger enclosures to keep them. A small enclosure can house a large number of Dwarf white isopods. They do not make for a great display species. But what they lack in display, they make up for in utility. They can be fed many food items as part of their diet, including protein-rich sources like dried shrimp. They can also be fed a lot of vegetable and fruit scraps. In their natural habitat, Dwarf white isopods prefer to burrow deep. They are not climbers like other species of isopods. Thus, the enclosure does not require much ventilation. However, a few ventilation holes can be kept to maintain air circulation in the enclosure. Also, the enclosure should not have any kind of waterlogging inside it. Dwarf White Isopods: Substrate Mix Substrate mixtures help provide the ideal conditions for an organism to thrive. They ultimately help give an organism an environment that is highly close to its natural habitat. Dwarf white isopods are relatively easy to maintain compared to other species of isopods. Thus, the substrate mix for these isopods can be created comparatively easily for breeders. Dwarf White isopods ideally need a substrate mixture that maintains the enclosure's moisture levels. Much like other species of isopods, leaf litter and decomposed wood are ideal materials for this purpose. Leaves are considered ideal because they can be easily collected from any place. The tropical conditions where these isopods are found also offer a natural green cover. Since they are initially from places with many trees and leaves, wood and leaves are perceived as ideal sources of substrates. In addition to leaf litter and decomposed wood, ABG mixtures are also used as substrates for Dwarf White isopods. ABG mixes are made with sphagnum moss, tree fern fiber, peat moss, charcoal, etc. They offer excellent water and nutrient retention capacities and are long-lasting compared to other forms of substrate.