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Many live under the notion that isopods are easy to keep, but that is far from true unless you are a committed person willing to put in the effort required. Although small, isopods have certain requirements that must be met to see them happy and healthy away from their natural habitat. For beginners with little or no knowledge about crustaceans, Porcellio Scitus is a good choice as they are easy to maintain and don’t have too many requirements to feel overwhelmed. Porcellio Scitus Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Europe Scientific Name: Porcellio scaber Difficulty: Easy Rarity: Not rare Size: Up to 1.7 cm Temperature: 18-27°C Humidity: 70-80% Favorable Foods: Decaying plant matter, leaf litter, fruits, veggies, fish flakes, shrimp pellets. An Overview Among the various isopods originating from Europe, you have Porcellio Scitus, which belongs to the larger Porcellio scaber group and is found in high-humidity areas. The good thing is that these isopods are not rare, so you can easily buy them from online breeders and pet supply shops that deal in crustaceans. Porcellio Scitus can grow up to 1.7 cm and is comparatively more active than other isopods, so it is fun to watch in a terrarium. But the easy-care level and minimum requirements make these isopods a preferred choice among keepers, particularly those who are new. Also, they can thrive in a wide range of conditions as long as their basic needs are met; you don’t need to worry about your isopods struggling or unhappy. Porcellio Scitus Isopods: Basic Care Though low maintenance, Porcellio Scitus has a few basic needs that must be fulfilled if you want to own them as pets. Originally found in Europe, they prefer temperatures between 18°C and 27°C. Therefore, maintain the same temperature within the terrarium and ensure it doesn’t fluctuate too much, or else there can be problems. As for humidity, Porcellio Scitus isopods do best when the level is 70% to 80% high, how they like it in their natural habitat. Your isopods need a moist place to live so they can grow and be healthy. Therefore, you cannot have the terrarium go dry ever. Provide both a wet and dry side so they can move between the zones and have a good life in captivity. Porcellio Scitus Isopods: Feeding Porcellio Scitus isopods are not different from other crustaceans when it concerns food. They are detritivores and love to feed on dead and decaying organic matter available in abundance in their natural habitat.  When in captivity, their diet should contain leaf litter, rotting wood, and decaying plant matter so they can derive the required nutrition from it and not feel starved. The safest item to offer them include sliced veggies, fruits, fish flakes, and shrimp pellets, which contribute to their overall well-being and make them strong enough to reproduce. Porcellio Scitus Isopods: Appearance & Behaviour Porcellio Scitus isopods have two pairs of antennae and several small legs under their bodies as they have a segmented body type.  They mostly grew upto 1.7 cm, and are found in varying shades of grey and brown, which helps them blend into their surroundings and avoid being spotted easily. Porcellio Scitus are active at night but hide under leaves, bark, or cork pieces during the day so they can be safe from predators and not be disturbed. Porcellio Scitus Isopods: Habitat No matter what isopod species it is, they need a suitable habitat to survive, and unless the requirement is met, you cannot see them grow or thrive. You can create the right habitat with a plastic container with good ventilation and plenty of decaying organic matter essential for their survival, therefore, not to be taken lightly. Besides, you need to add a moist corner, but not too wet, so they can breathe and molt properly without dying. Porcellio Scitus Isopods: Substrate Mix You cannot do without a good substrate mix containing organic topsoil, leaf litter, crushed decaying wood, and calcium sources, as it is the foundation of their habitat and encourages natural behavior. You can also add charcoal pieces to remove bad odor and keep the substrate fresh for a long time without replacing it. Also, stir the substrate occasionally to distribute the nutrients and prevent mold buildup within the enclosure.

A vast majority of isopods are fit to live in captivity as long as you care for them and meet their basic requirements for survival. For beginners, choosing an entry-level species is wise as they have minimal requirements and can manage without you having to check on them 24/7. One such species is Porcellio Rhodes, which is both easy to keep and attractive because of their dark, rock-like patterns and oblong-shaped body.  Porcellio Rhodes Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Europe Scientific Name: Porcellio laevis Difficulty: Beginner-friendly Rarity: Not rare Temperature: 20-27°C Size: Up to 15-20 mm Humidity: 70-90% Favorable Foods: Hardwood leaves, rotting plant matter, cuttlebone, oyster flakes, and eggshells. An Overview Although Porcellio Rhodes isopods are from Europe, they are also found in other places because of the pet trade, which has made them a common species in the isopod community. They belong to Porcellio laevis species, and have a hardy body and can grow up to 15-20 mm if the conditions are favorable and the necessities are met. They are fast-moving creatures and crawl around at night, which is entertaining to watch compared to slower and more reclusive types. As for appearance, Porcellio Rhodes come in greyish or tan shades and feature varying patterns, which is why they look so attractive even in captivity. Since they are not rare, you can easily find them at a local breeder or reptile shop, and that too at an affordable price. Porcellio Rhodes Isopods: Basic Care Here are some essential tips to care for your isopods: Not to compromise with their health and servival, keep in the temperature range between 20°C and 27°C, the same as in their natural habitat. Like most isopods, Porcellio Rhodes prefers high humidity, so keep the range between 70% and 90% and ensure the terrarium is never dry. Mist one side of the setup so the fish can have both dry and moist areas within the terrarium and move around as they like. Good ventilation is important so the airflow is proper and bacteria cannot grow inside the enclosure and harm your isopods. Porcellio Rhodes Isopods: Feeding Porcellio Rhodes isopods eat a variety of things, and the majority of their diet consists of decaying plants that are available in the wild easily. When in captivity, feed them hardwood leaves, rotting wood, cuttlebone, oyster shell flakes, and crushed eggshells as it is good for their health and adds to their growth and development, something which you want for your isopods. You can offer vegetable peels, fish food, or dried shrimp as an occasional treat, but ensure not to overfeed them, or else there can be problems. Porcellio Rhodes Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour Porcellio Rhodes isopods have a smooth body and shiny shells in tan or gray shades, which make them easy to spot in the wild. Unlike some isopods, Porcellio Rhodes cannot curl up into a ball when disturbed or threatened. Instead, they run and hide quickly. They are very active and roam their enclosure at night but hide in leaf litter or moss during the day so nobody can see or attack them. Porcellio Rhodes Isopods: Habitat Mimicking their natural habitat has the same dos, like giving them ample space to roam and hide around moisture moisture-retaining substrate to ensure good ventilation and airflow. For hiding spots, you can use items like bark, cork, or egg cartons they can burrow and move underneath them for protection if threatened. Porcellio Rhodes Isopods: Substrate Mix A good substrate mix is responsible for humidity, provides a food source, and allows isopods to burrow whenever they like to rest or hide. Add a layer of sphagnum moss on one side and mist it regularly so it stays moist and offers a comfortable place for your isopods to live. Also, the substrate should be deep enough so they can burrow and hide without getting spotted.

Armadillidium genus species of isopods are big and unique because they can curl into a ball and protect their soft bellies from predators if attacked. This feature makes them a pet choice, precisely Frontetriangulum Orange, because of their beautiful coloration and moderate care needs. Originally found in Corfu, Greece, they are relatively rare but can be found in the pet trade if you have good connections. Frontetriangulum Orange Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Corfu, Greece Scientific Name: Armadillidium sp. Difficulty: Moderate Rarity: Relatively rare Temperature: 21-27°C Size: Up to 1.8 cm Humidity: 70-80% Favourable Foods: Decaying plant matter, fruit, fish flakes, and dog biscuits.  An Overview Among other isopods found in Corfu, Greece, Frontetriangulum Orange is more popular mainly because of its vibrant orange coloration, which is rare in different species. As far as their care requirements are concerned, Frontetriangulum Orange is suitable for both entry-level and experienced keepers as long as they do everything correctly and do not mess up their habitat. They grow up to 1.8 cm in size, which is considered big in the isopod world. Therefore, you need a spacious enclosure for them to live and move around freely. Frontetriangulum Orange Isopods: Basic Care We have provided a few care tips for your isopods: Frontetriangulum Orange Isopods are not used to temperature changes and require a stable environment where they can live stress-free and without harm. They prefer high humidity levels up to 70-80% because it is crucial for their development, so unless you provide the same, they can have molting issues. They need good airflow in their enclosure, so using a container with tiny holes is a good idea. This offers proper ventilation and also prevents mold growth. You should clean the terrarium and add fresh food regularly so your isopods have a healthy space to live and eat whenever they need to. Frontetriangulum Orange Isopods: Feeding Feeding Frontetriangulum Orange Isopods is easy as long as you understand their needs and give them a balanced diet to feed on. Not different from other isopods, they, too, prefer eating organic matter like decaying leaves, plant matter, fruits, and veggies that are healthy and fulfill their nutritional requirements. Fish flaked or dog biscuits make them belly-happy but give them in a controlled portion. Do not ignore their calcium sources like crushed eggshells or cuttlebone as it is essential for their exoskeleton and overall well-being. Frontetriangulum Orange Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour The most exciting thing is the bright orange coloration that makes them unique and stands out from other species. Growing up to 1.8 cm, Frontetriangulum Orange Isopods are bigger than others and perfect for observation without being too tiny to handle Their body is smooth and round in shape allowing them to roll into a tight ball if threatened or danger is near. They are more active at night and come out to feed and explore their surroundings when there are no disturbances. Frontetriangulum Orange Isopods: Habitat Setting up a habitat for Frontetriangulum Orange isopods is not difficult if you know what is correct and what needs to be done. You can use a small plastic container and add both moist and dry areas so they can have an ideal habitat to live and reproduce. For hiding spots, leaf litter, bark pieces, and moss are great choices as they encourage natural behavior and give them a safe place to hide and rest. Frontetriangulum Orange Isopods: Substrate Mix Do not take the importance of the good substrate mix granted and ensure to feed your isopods a balanced mix of everything important for their health. As you may have read extensively about creating a perfect substrate mix, it is better to stick to the easiest and basic option to not expose too much to them. With a blend of ingredients like organic topsoil, leaf litter, sphagnum moss, and coconut fiber, you will be good to go in retaining moisture and keeping humidity levels stable. 

You won’t realize the depth of the world of crustaceans unless you dive down, and it is dominated by the extensive variety of isopods living in different corners of the world. While the physical features are not distinct, the same cannot be said about their coloration as it depends on various factors like genetics, diet, substrate, and environmental conditions. If you are looking for a colourful species, Oniscus Casellus Orange Isopods is a good choice because of their vibrant orange shade and beautiful appearance that most keepers like. Also, they make a great addition to any isopod collection you have in your home and want to expand. Oniscus Casellus Orange Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: British Columbia, Canada Scientific Name: Oniscus asellus Difficulty: Easy Rarity: Not rare Temperature: 18-25°C Size: Up to 16 mm Humidity: 50-70% Favorable Foods: Leaf litter, rotting wood, fruits, vegetables, eggshells, fungi, dead crickets.  An Overview Originating from British Columbia, Canada, Oniscus Casellus Orange isopods are a colorful species unique because of their bright orange bodies and hardy exoskeletons, which protect them from predators in the wild. They grow up to 16 mm and are easy to maintain as they have minimal requirements and care needs, which is usually not the case with other isopods. Even better, they are not rare and are easily found in the pet trade, or where they sell isopods, so you don’t have to search a lot to have them in your collection. Oniscus Casellus Orange Isopods: Basic Care Here are some essential care tips for your isopods: Adaptable in nature, Oniscus Casellus Orange isopods has a tendency of tolerating a range of temperatures as long as it is between 18-25°C and don’t swing much. Also, they are made with robust physical appearance and strength.  Maintaining the humidity between 50-70% without not making it excessively wet to avoid mold growth or shedding issues. You can use a plastic tub to ensure good ventilation so your isopods enjoy smooth airflow and do not have trouble breathing. Since Oniscus Casellus Orange isopods are shy creatures, add plenty of leaf litter or cork flats, so they have enough hiding spots within the enclosure. Oniscus Casellus Orange Isopods: Feeding As they have in-built hunting tendency and feed on a large variety of things, like leaf litter, rotting wood, mushrooms, dead insects, and fungi that are available easily in the wild. However, they also need calcium sources like eggshells and cuttlebone to have a stronger exoskeleton and protect themselves from predators. To make their diet more appetizing, add fresh fruits and vegetables, but not too frequently, as it can cause health problems. Oniscus Casellus Orange Isopods: Appearance & Behaviour Oniscus Casellus Orange Isopods’s striking orange feature sets them apart from their brown or grey relatives of the same genus. Although more active at night, they also move around during the day if they feel safe and have no predators to attack them. They are not aggressive and prefer to live in groups, so you see them piling together under moist bark or leaf litter. Oniscus Casellus Orange Isopods: Habitat Setting up a comfortable home is essential to owning isopods, regardless of the species or difficulty level. You can use a simple 5 to 10-litre plastic container and add moist and dry zones so your isopods can live and breed happily without struggling for survival. Since they thrive in a forest-floor-like environment, they cannot tolerate bright lights and strong airflow, so you need to remember these things before getting them. Oniscus Casellus Orange Isopods: Substrate Mix Your isopods spend most of their time on or under the substrate, so you must get this part right and not mess it up to cause problems. A good substrate mix contains coconut fiber, peat moss, leaf litter, and rotting wood chunks because they are good at retaining moisture and don’t let the environment dry even hours after misting the terrarium. Just stir the substrate occasionally so it stays fresh for a long time and prevents mold or pests from destroying the setup.

Discover the warm, earthy beauty of these stunning rust-colored European isopods! Rust Scabers showcase gorgeous reddish-brown to deep orange coloration that perfectly captures the essence of autumn leaves and weathered metal. These hardy specimens represent one of nature's most beautiful color expressions in the legendary Porcellio scaber species, combining the reliability and ease of care that made rough woodlice famous with distinctive rusty hues that make them stand out in any bioactive setup. A Glimpse • Origin: Europe (Captive Bred) • Scientific Name: Porcellio scaber 'Rust' • Difficulty Level: Low - Beginner Friendly • Adult Size: Up to 18mm (0.7 inches) • Rarity: Medium • Temperature: 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C) • Humidity: 50% to 60% with moisture gradient • Favorite Foods: Decaying leaves, vegetables, fish food, rotting wood • Supplements: Protein twice weekly, calcium sources Overview Rust Scabers represent one of the most visually striking natural color variants of Europe's most successful terrestrial crustacean. These captivating isopods display rich rust, reddish-brown, and deep orange coloration that ranges from subtle copper tones to vibrant burnt orange, creating a warm, earthy aesthetic that's absolutely mesmerizing against dark substrates. Unlike many artificially selected morphs, Rust coloration occurs naturally in wild Porcellio scaber populations, making these specimens particularly special for keepers who appreciate nature's artistry. They maintain all the legendary hardiness, adaptability, and prolific breeding characteristics that made rough woodlice the foundation species of the isopod hobby, while offering distinctive coloration that rivals much more expensive rarities. Basic Care Rust Scabers epitomize beginner-friendly isopod keeping with their remarkable tolerance for environmental variations and forgiving nature. They thrive in room temperatures between 60-85°F and readily adapt to minor fluctuations that would stress more delicate species. Humidity should be maintained between 50-60% with crucial moisture gradients - approximately one-third of their enclosure should remain consistently moist while the majority stays well-ventilated and moderately humid. These robust isopods appreciate excellent airflow and actually prefer slightly drier conditions than tropical species, making them perfect for keepers still learning proper ventilation balance. Their substantial size and active nature make them easy to observe, and their calm temperament allows for safe handling when necessary. Feeding Calcium • Cuttlefish bone pieces (essential for their calcified exoskeletons) • Crushed eggshells mixed into substrate • Limestone granules for ongoing supplementation • Calcium powder occasionally dusted on vegetables Protein (Twice Weekly) • High-quality fish flakes or pellets • Dried shrimp (remove after 24 hours) • Freeze-dried bloodworms • Reptile shed skin when available • Commercial isopod protein mixes Primary Diet • Hardwood leaf litter (oak, maple, birch preferred) • Fresh vegetables (carrot, sweet potato, squash, cucumber) • White rotten wood pieces • Decomposing organic matter • Commercial isopod pellets as supplements Appearance and Behaviour Rust Scabers are absolutely stunning specimens that showcase nature's beautiful color palette in warm, earthy tones. Adults reach an impressive 18mm length with robust, oval-shaped bodies covered in the characteristic small tubercles that give rough woodlice their name. Their coloration ranges from subtle copper and rust tones to rich reddish-brown and vibrant burnt orange, often with beautiful mottled patterns that create depth and visual interest. Young specimens may display even brighter lemon-yellow to orange hues that intensify with age. These active isopods are constantly on the move, foraging through substrate and leaf litter with purposeful, methodical movements. They cannot roll into balls like Armadillidium species but rely on their speed and hardy exoskeletons for protection. Their social nature leads them to aggregate under favorite hiding spots, creating impressive displays of their warm coloration. Habitat A minimum 6-quart container works for starter colonies, while established groups thrive in 15+ quart setups or 10+ gallon terrariums that showcase their active foraging behaviors. Substrate depth should be 2-3 inches to support their natural burrowing instincts and provide adequate moisture retention zones. Create distinct environmental gradients with approximately one-third of the enclosure maintained as consistently moist using quality sphagnum moss, while the remainder stays well-ventilated and moderately humid. Cork bark pieces, wooden hides, and thick hardwood leaf litter coverage provide essential shelter and foraging opportunities. Excellent ventilation is crucial - provide ample airflow at the container top to prevent stagnation while maintaining proper humidity zones. Substrate Mix Create the ideal environment with this proven mixture: Base Layer (70%): • Quality organic topsoil (pesticide and fertilizer-free) • Aged leaf mold for natural decomposition cycles • Small amount of peat moss for moisture retention and pH buffering Organic Amendments (20%): • White rotten wood pieces (10% - critical nutrition source) • Aged hardwood bark pieces • Earthworm castings for soil fertility Mineral Supplements (10%): • Limestone granules (essential for exoskeleton development) • Crushed oyster shell pieces • Optional: Fine sand for drainage in deeper areas Moisture Management: Maintain substrate that feels like a well-wrung sponge in designated moist zones, never waterlogged or oversaturated. The dry areas should remain just slightly humid to the touch but well-aerated. Rust Scabers are remarkably tolerant of varying moisture levels and actually prefer conditions slightly drier than tropical species. Monitor with gentle substrate compression - moist areas should produce a drop or two when squeezed, while dry areas should feel barely damp and spring back quickly. Special Considerations: Rust Scabers have hearty appetites and excellent foraging abilities, so ensure substrate includes substantial amounts of decomposing wood and aged leaf matter. They're particularly effective at processing large quantities of organic waste, making them outstanding bioactive team members. Their natural adaptability means they're very forgiving of substrate variations, but they respond beautifully to consistent care with enhanced coloration and increased breeding activity.

Discover the impressive Italian locality of the world's most beloved isopod! These magnificent specimens from Italy represent one of the largest Armadillidium vulgare variants available in the hobby. Giant Italians combine the reliability and ease of care that made common pillbugs famous with an impressive size that commands attention. Their substantial build, classic conglobation ability, and robust nature make them perfect for both experienced keepers and ambitious beginners ready for something special. A Glimpse • Origin: Italy (Captive Bred) • Scientific Name: Armadillidium vulgare 'Big Italy' • Difficulty Level: Low - Beginner Friendly • Adult Size: Up to 20mm+ (0.8+ inches) • Rarity: Medium-High • Temperature: 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C) • Humidity: 50% to 70% with moisture gradient • Favorite Foods: Decaying leaves, vegetables, fish food, rotting wood • Supplements: Calcium sources, occasional protein Overview Giant Italian isopods represent one of the most impressive locality variants of Armadillidium vulgare currently available in the isopod hobby. These substantial specimens showcase what happens when the world's most successful terrestrial crustacean reaches its full genetic potential in the favorable conditions of the Italian Mediterranean climate. Significantly larger than typical common pillbugs, Giant Italians maintain all the hardy characteristics that made their species legendary while offering a truly impressive size that rivals much rarer species. Their wide-bodied, robust build creates a commanding presence in any bioactive setup, and their classic ability to roll into perfect defensive balls never fails to fascinate observers. Originally from Italy's diverse ecosystems, these captive-bred specimens bring Mediterranean resilience to your collection. Basic Care Giant Italians epitomize beginner-friendly isopod keeping while offering the satisfaction of maintaining something truly special. They thrive in room temperatures between 65-80°F with remarkable tolerance for fluctuations that would stress more delicate species. Humidity should be maintained between 50-70% with essential moisture gradients - approximately one-quarter to one-third of their enclosure should remain consistently moist while the majority stays moderately humid but well-ventilated. These robust isopods appreciate good airflow and can handle slightly drier conditions than tropical species, making them forgiving for new keepers still mastering misting schedules. Their substantial size means they're easy to observe and handle, and their calm temperament makes them excellent for educational purposes or hands-on interaction. Feeding Calcium • Cuttlefish bone pieces (critical for their substantial exoskeletons) • Crushed eggshells mixed into substrate • Limestone granules for ongoing supplementation • Calcium powder occasionally dusted on vegetables Protein (Weekly) • High-quality fish flakes or pellets • Dried shrimp (remove after 24 hours) • Freeze-dried bloodworms • Occasional reptile shed skin Primary Diet • Hardwood leaf litter (oak, maple, birch, beech) • Fresh vegetables (carrot, sweet potato, squash) • White rotten wood pieces • Decomposing organic matter • Commercial isopod pellets Appearance and Behaviour Giant Italians are truly spectacular specimens that showcase impressive sexual dimorphism and size variation. Adults reach 20mm or more in length with remarkably wide, robust bodies that feel substantial when handled. Coloration ranges from classic gunmetal grey in males to beautiful brown tones with distinctive yellow markings in females. Their smooth, domed carapaces have a satisfying weight and solidity that sets them apart from smaller isopod species. When threatened, they demonstrate the perfect conglobation ability that Armadillidium species are famous for, rolling into tight, impenetrable balls. These social creatures naturally aggregate under cork bark and in favorite hiding spots, often forming impressive clusters. They're surprisingly active during both day and night, constantly foraging through substrate and leaf litter with methodical, purposeful movements. Habitat A minimum 12-quart container accommodates starter colonies, but Giant Italians truly shine in larger 25+ quart setups or 15+ gallon terrariums that showcase their impressive size and social behaviors. Substrate depth should be 2-3 inches to support their natural burrowing instincts without being excessive. Create distinct moisture zones with approximately one-quarter of the enclosure maintained as a consistently moist area using quality sphagnum moss, while the remainder stays moderately humid with excellent ventilation. Cork bark flats provide essential hiding spots where they love to congregate in large numbers, and thick hardwood leaf litter coverage supports both nutrition and natural behaviors. Good airflow is essential - provide ample ventilation holes at the container top to prevent stagnation while maintaining proper humidity levels. Substrate Mix Create the ideal environment with this proven mixture: Base Layer (70%): • Quality organic topsoil (pesticide and fertilizer-free) • Aged leaf mold for natural decomposition • Small amount of peat moss for moisture retention Nutritional Amendments (20%): • White rotten wood pieces (10% - essential nutrition) • Aged hardwood bark pieces • Earthworm castings for fertility Mineral Supplements (10%): • Limestone granules (essential for their large exoskeletons) • Crushed oyster shell • Optional: Fine sand for drainage Moisture Management: Maintain substrate that feels like a well-wrung sponge in the designated moist zones, never waterlogged. The dry areas should remain just slightly humid to the touch. Giant Italians are remarkably tolerant of varying moisture levels, but they require access to both moist retreat areas and well-ventilated dry zones. Monitor with occasional gentle substrate squeezing - moist areas should produce a few drops when compressed, while dry areas should feel barely damp. Special Considerations: Giant Italians have hearty appetites that match their impressive size, so ensure substrate includes substantial amounts of decomposing wood and leaf matter. They're excellent at processing large quantities of organic waste, making them outstanding bioactive team members. Their substantial calcium requirements mean limestone amendments are particularly important for supporting their impressive exoskeleton development and successful molting cycles.

At first glance, Temperate Springtails look tiny and insignificant, but they play a big role in nature and maintain the ecosystem like isopods do. They contribute majorly to the well-being of the health of the environment and soil by giving microbes a proper ambiance to grow and thrive. Not region-particular, you can easily spot these springtails in almost all parts of the world, and they often intrigue people having an interest in reptiles, amphibians, or terrariums. If you are intrigued to own them as pets, we suggest you read this post so you can learn more about their care and requirements. Temperate Springtails: A Glimpse Origin: Worldwide Scientific Name: Folsomia candida Difficulty: Easy Rarity: Not rare Temperature: 18°C to 27°C Size: Up to 1-4 mm Humidity: 50-70% Favorable Foods: Decaying organic matter, mold, fungi, plant material, pollen, bacteria An Overview Members of the Collembola group, these tiny creatures are found worldwide, but more in commonly in tropical climates where decaying organic material is available in plenty.  Unlike other species, they are easy to care for and maintain, so you don’t have to monitor them 24/7 if that’s what you are concerned about. As nature’s clean-up crew, they break down waste and mold in the wild and contribute to the ecosystem despite being so tiny. Temperate Springtails: Basic Care Here are some basic care tips for your springtails: Since temperate springtails are low maintenance, you don’t need to do much to keep them happy and healthy except provide a comfortable bioactive enclosure so they can live and breed peacefully. You can use a glass jar or a plastic container if it has tiny holes and offers proper ventilation so your springtails can breathe and function properly. Place a few inches of the damp substrate inside the enclosure so the moisture levels are stable and your springtails live comfortably without issues. Keep the container in a room and ensure the temperature doesn’t exceed 18-27°C, as this is not good for their health and can cause problems like reduced body size, delayed reproduction, and heat shock. Temperate Springtails: Feeding It doesn’t take much effort to feed Temperate Springtails, which is why beginners prefer them more than other species. Their eating habit consists of decaying plant material, pollen, mold, fungi, and bacteria when they are living on their own, and they source all important nutrients required for their growth. When keeping them in captivity, you must ensure to feed them the same. Temperate Springtails: Appearance & Behaviour Temperate springtails are generally white or greyish and have a soft, oval body that simultaneously makes them unique and vulnerable. Unlike other species, they don’t have wings but a furcula that helps them flip their bodies in the air and escape danger if attacked. Even though they are so small, they often bounce around on the soil and look for food in their surroundings. In captivity, you will see them crawling through substrate quickly or staying hidden in moist, dark areas so nobody can see or disturb them. They are harmless to humans and animals as they don’t bite or cause any damage if that’s what you are worried about. Habitat Temperate Springtails thrive in moist, dark environments and need a continuous food supply to eat whenever they want and not starve. They love to live in the damp soil, under leaf litter, or rotting wood when they are on their own. The information is vital as you will have to create the same space using the same materials to not keep them from thriving. Ensure the bioactive setup has natural materials like coconut fiber, leaf litter, moss, and small pieces of bark so they have plenty of spots to hide and explore. Temperate Springtails: Substrate Mix Substrate mix plays a vital role in their development and if you are concerned for the same, a substrate mix containing charcoal, coconut fiber, leaf litter, and sphagnum moss is a must because it creates a healthy environment for your springtails to thrive and breed, just like in the wild. Placing clay balls or lava rocks at the bottom is good for drainage and keeps the terrarium clean and fit for your springtails to live in.

A new cubaris isopod introduced to the hobby from Mark Titterton. These isopods are a morph of the very popular white side/penguin morph. I was lucky enough to get 10-15 off Mark  at the start of this year and they were quite slow to get going, similar to the penguins for me but as of around the end of June I started to see mancae in the enclosure. As these seem (just my opinion personally) to be a resessive morph born from the penguins, i have noticed that some normal penguin/white side isopods have appeared within the mancae. This also shows the colour does not change/develop over time like some morphs have been found to have so it is very easy to remove the normal penguins to ensure this army keeps producing as many visual versions of the moby dick/orcha morph. Moby Dick/Orcha Isopods Overview Origin: Thailand Scientific Name: Cubaris Sp. Maintenance level: Moderate. Size: 0.8 cm Rarity: High Breeding: Medium Temperature: 70°F to 80°F Humidity: 70% to 80% Supplements: Cuttlebone Favourite Food: Vegetables, meat scraps, fish food It would not suprise me if in the coming years we see more morphs coming from the pegnuins as they were only discovered in 2017 Moby Dick/Orcha Isopods: Characteristics and Behavioral Insights They can grow up to 0.8 cm long. These isopods have very light bodies, some exibit more of a white and some more of a cream colour with a line going through the middle of them (digestive tract) They are social in behaviour. They exhibit behaviours like foraging and grooming. They roll into a ball when they feel threatened or face any danger. Although they can withstand any temperature, the optimal range for breeding temperatures is around 70°F to 80°F An arid environment is lethal for White Side Penguin isopods. Difficult to breed. Once these isopods are established in a healthy environment, they produce offspring.

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