Trachelipus Isopods (6)

Trachelipus Trilobatus are medium-sized species that are native to Russia. Predominantly found near the Black Sea, these flat isopods have a hard exoskeleton. They have a greyish pattern and orange-tinged ring at the base of their exoskeleton. The beginner series isopod can make precious pets even for experienced isopod collectors. The Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods are also found on the coast of Turkey and Georgia in abundance. These Romanian isopods resemble the Porcellio Spatulatus Coros species a lot. These beautiful isopods thrive in mediumly humid environments. A Glimpse Origin: Russia, Eastern Europe (Romania) Scientific Name: Trachelipus Trilobatus Difficulty: Easy Rarity: Uncommon Temperature: 18 to 26℃ Size: 2 cm to 4 cm Humidity: 60-80% Favourable Foods: Cuttlebone, eggshells, decaying leaves An Overview Trachelipus Trilobatus make beloved and interesting pets because they are rare to find. These Trachelipus isopods are Russian and Romanian species characterized by their greyish pattern and orange-tinged ring at the base of their exoskeleton.    These Eastern European natives have a somewhat flat appearance. These elegant Trachelipus isopods resemble the Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods. These easy-to-keep and easy-to-breed isopods are medium-sized species that can grow from 2cm to 4cm in size.    Being a mediumly humid environment thrivers, the Trilobatus Isopods need a terrarium setup with medium to high levels of humidity. As the original climate of the Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods is subtropical, they can grow in warm weathered and hard wintery setups conveniently.    These iso odsmake ideal pets because of their fast breeding capabilities and a high tolerance for colder environments. Feeding the Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods is not difficult either. These isopods do not have any kind of fixed diet. The Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods can be fed decayed wood, cuttlefish bone, and limestone.    Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods are fast breeders. They can produce large numbers under suitable environmental conditions. These stunning isopods have excellent breeding capabilities. Basic Care For Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to the Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods. You can use an enclosure setup with a medium level of humidity to house the Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods. It is essential to ensure the Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods get sufficient calcium supply through supplements like cuttlefish bone.  Don’t keep the enclosure in direct light.  Make use of a substrate mix with vegetable peels and wood pieces to meet the needs of the Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods. Feeding Trachelipus Trilobatus are a relatively easy species when it comes to feeding. The Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods can feed on staple diets like decaying wood and leaf litter. They are not fond of a certain type of food. These Isopods consume dried vegetables and vegetable peels as found in the natural environment.  Appearance And Behaviour Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods thrive in medium to high humidity conditions. They can be a suitable choice for beginners because they are easy to keep and even easier to breed isopods.  Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods are medium-sized isopods with a flat appearance. These greyish-orange coloured isopods resemble the Porcellio Spatulatus Coros in appearance. You can make an ample amount of hiding spots because they are highly preferred by the Trachelipus Trilobatus. Trachelipus Triobatus Isopods Habitat The Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods is a species recognized for its fast breeding capabilities. The Trachelipus Trilobatus can live beside other species and animals in an enclosure. They are not scavengers and can keep a vivarium setup clean.   Substrate Mix These isopodswill need a substrate mix with wood pieces, leaf litter, vegetable peels, and more. Isopod collectors can add natural supplements of wood and leaves within the setup. Oyster shells are essential supplements for their growth. Add only pesticide free supplements inside the enclosure because they can pose a huge risk for the Trachelipus Trilobatus Isopods.

A Carpathian woodland species with attractive brownish-orange colouration and an interesting natural history as a cave entrance dweller. Trachelipus Difficilis Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Hungary, Romania, Slovakia (Carpathian region) Scientific Name: Trachelipus difficilis Difficulty Level: Low to Medium Size: Up to 2cm Rarity: Uncommon Temperature: 16°C to 24°C Humidity: 60% to 75% (medium) Favorite Foods: Leaf litter, decaying wood, fungi, algae, vegetables Supplements: Calcium sources (cuttlebone, limestone), occasional protein Trachelipus Difficilis Isopods: An Overview Trachelipus difficilis is a Central European species native to the Carpathian mountain region, spanning parts of Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia. First described by the Romanian scientist V.G. Radu in 1950, this species has an interesting ecological niche that sets it apart from more commonly kept isopods. In the wild, T. difficilis is described as a "petricolous" species, meaning it's rock-dwelling rather than primarily soil-dwelling. Scientific surveys have found them on the walls of cave entrances in Carpathian limestone cave systems, including the famous Dobšiná Ice Cave region in Slovakia. They've also been recorded in wet forest areas, natural woodland habitats, and occasionally in abandoned mines. This rock-dwelling behaviour makes them interesting subjects for keepers who want something a bit different from the typical leaf-litter-dwelling species. While they'll certainly use substrate and leaf litter in captivity, providing vertical surfaces and rocky hides may encourage more natural behaviour. In the hobby, T. difficilis remains relatively uncommon compared to more widely available Trachelipus species like T. trilobatus or T. rathkii. Their attractive brownish-orange colouration and larger size make them an appealing addition for collectors looking to diversify their Trachelipus holdings. Trachelipus Difficilis Isopods: Appearance T. difficilis displays an attractive brownish-orange colouration that distinguishes them from the greyer tones of some related species. The body has lighter brown to orange membranes with darker mottling, creating a warm, earthy appearance. Adults reach approximately 2cm in length, making them one of the larger Trachelipus species commonly available. They have the typical Trachelipus body shape: broader and flatter than Armadillidium species, with a less domed profile. Unlike pill bugs, they cannot roll into a tight ball when threatened. The body is segmented with well-defined tergites, and they have the characteristic "shoulders" visible on the lateral edges that are typical of the genus. Trachelipus Difficilis Isopods: Basic Care Despite their interesting wild ecology, T. difficilis adapt well to standard isopod keeping conditions in captivity. They're tolerant of a range of conditions, making them suitable for keepers with some basic experience. Temperature: These are temperate woodland isopods from mountainous regions, so they don't need tropical heat. Room temperature between 16°C and 24°C suits them well. They can tolerate cooler temperatures than many tropical species but don't need to be kept cold. Avoid excessive heat, particularly above 26°C. Humidity: Medium humidity works best. Aim for around 60-75% with a moisture gradient in the enclosure. One area should be kept damper than the rest. Being found in wet forest areas and near cave entrances in the wild, they appreciate reliable access to moisture but don't want waterlogged conditions. Ventilation: Moderate ventilation is appropriate. They don't need the aggressive airflow required by dry Spanish Porcellio species, but stagnant conditions should be avoided. Lighting: Low light conditions are preferred. In the wild, they're found in shaded forest areas and cave entrances, so they naturally avoid bright light. Provide plenty of dark hiding spots. Trachelipus Difficilis Isopods: Feeding T. difficilis are detritivores with dietary habits similar to other woodland isopod species. In the wild, they've been observed feeding on organic matter including fungi and algae on cave walls. Primary Food Sources: Mixed hardwood leaf litter (oak, beech, hornbeam) Decaying hardwood pieces Rotting bark Fungi (if available) Supplemental Foods: Vegetables (carrots, courgette, cucumber, squash) Fish flakes or fish food for protein Occasional fruit Dried shrimp or freeze-dried protein sources Calcium Sources: Provide calcium for healthy moulting: Cuttlebone pieces Limestone chips (particularly appropriate given their limestone cave habitat) Crushed eggshells Oyster shell Given their natural association with limestone cave systems, adding limestone to their enclosure may be particularly beneficial. Trachelipus Difficilis Isopods: Substrate Mix A standard woodland substrate mix works well, though given their petricolous (rock-dwelling) nature, including rocky elements may encourage natural behaviour. A suitable mix might include: Organic topsoil or potting compost (pesticide-free) as a base Coconut coir for moisture retention Sphagnum moss in the humid area Leaf litter as a top layer Decaying hardwood pieces Limestone chips or pieces scattered through the substrate Substrate depth of around 5cm is adequate, though they may not burrow as extensively as some species given their natural preference for rocky surfaces. Trachelipus Difficilis Isopods: Enclosure Setup Consider incorporating elements that reflect their natural rock-dwelling habits. Container Size: A 4-6 litre container suits a starter colony. They're larger isopods that appreciate reasonable space. Rocky Elements: Unlike many isopod setups, consider adding flat stones, limestone pieces, or textured rock surfaces. This mimics their natural cave entrance habitat and may encourage more natural behaviour. Position rocks to create vertical and angled surfaces they can climb and shelter under. Cork Bark: Still useful for hides and surfaces. Position some bark pieces vertically or at angles rather than just flat on the substrate. Moisture Gradient: Keep one section damper with moss coverage. The rest can be slightly drier. This allows them to self-regulate their hydration. Leaf Litter: Still important as food source and shelter, even for a rock-dwelling species. Trachelipus Difficilis Isopods: Breeding T. difficilis breed well in captivity once established. They're reported to reproduce at a reasonable rate, though not as explosively as some prolific species. What to Expect: Steady colony growth with good care Moderate brood sizes Reliable reproduction once settled Maintain consistent conditions and ensure adequate calcium for breeding females. The cooler temperature range they prefer doesn't prevent breeding but may slow reproduction compared to species kept warmer. Trachelipus Difficilis Isopods: Behaviour T. difficilis display typical Trachelipus behaviour with some interesting quirks related to their rock-dwelling nature. Typical Behaviours: Sheltering in dark areas during the day Activity during evening and night hours Climbing on vertical surfaces more readily than purely ground-dwelling species Congregating under bark and stones Feeding on decomposing organic matter They're reported to be reasonably active isopods that, once established, will be visible exploring their enclosure, particularly under low-light conditions. Trachelipus Difficilis Isopods: Bioactive Use T. difficilis can work well in bioactive setups, particularly those mimicking temperate European woodland conditions. Good for: Temperate bioactive enclosures Setups with rocky or mountainous themes Enclosures for animals from similar climatic regions Display terrariums with a naturalistic European woodland aesthetic Their larger size makes them useful for processing organic waste, and their interesting colouration adds visual appeal to naturalistic setups. Who Are These Isopods For? T. difficilis suit keepers who: Want an uncommon Trachelipus species for their collection Appreciate the interesting natural history of cave-associated species Can maintain moderate humidity and avoid excessive heat Want a larger, attractively coloured European species Are interested in recreating Carpathian woodland biotopes They might not suit: Complete beginners (though they're not difficult, starting with more common species helps build experience) Those wanting a tropical species requiring high heat Keepers looking for maximum visibility (they're still primarily nocturnal) What's Included Each order contains healthy specimens selected from our breeding stock. We include a mix of sizes to give your colony the best start with breeding potential. A care sheet is provided with every order.

 A European isopod that will thrive in a warm room, a spotty nutty brown colour these make a great choice if you want a less flashy isopod that isn’t widely seen.       • Origin:  Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia     • Scientific Name: Trachelipus Mostarensis     • Difficulty Level: Low     • Size: 1.2-1.5cm     • Rarity: Medium     • Temperature: 68-77F     • Humidity: 60-70%     • Dietary Preferences: leaf litter, cucumber, dried fish    Hailing from Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Croatia there is surprisingly little known about Trachelipus mostarensis in the wild, even though it is a widely distributed species. They are an undemanding species that thrives with a reasonable humidity, in a warm room you won't need to add supplemental heating. They will thrive on a general diet of leaf litter, with a variety of fish pellets, occasional chopped veg, a source of calcium, and other foods to provide vitamins and minerals they need. Once your colony is established, they are likely to breed and increase their numbers, creating a nice self-sustaining population.    If you loved collecting woodlice from the garden as a kid then these will bring back fond memories. They have the more traditional woodlouse shape, and size, although not quite colour, rather than the more unusual species that we also know and love. But these are happier in warmer temperatures than many native British species and are great for a general clean-up crew for temperate or subtropical species.

Trachelipus caucasius is a hardy isopod species originating from the Caucasus region, found around the Black Sea coasts of Russia, Georgia, and Turkey. Sometimes called "Trilobite isopods" due to their body shape, they display attractive grey colouration often accented with orange edging along the segments. At 2-4 cm when fully grown, they're a substantial species that's easy to observe, and their tolerance for a range of temperatures combined with straightforward care makes them a practical choice for keepers at all experience levels. A Glimpse Origin: Caucasus region (Russia, Georgia, Turkey - Black Sea coastal areas) Scientific Name: Trachelipus caucasius Maintenance required: Low Average Size: 2-4 cm Rarity: Medium Lifespan: 2-3 years Temperature: 18-26°C (64-79°F) Ventilation: Medium to High Humidity: 60-75% (with moisture gradient) Favorite food: Leaf litter, decaying hardwood, vegetables Supplements: Cuttlefish bone, crushed limestone, eggshells Trachelipus caucasius: Introduction Trachelipus caucasius comes from the subtropical climate zones around the Black Sea, where conditions include warm summers, mild autumns, and cold winters. This natural environment has made them adaptable to a broader temperature range than many tropical isopod species—they'll handle cooler conditions that would stress more sensitive species, while also thriving in warmer setups. Their common nickname "Trilobite isopods" comes from their body shape, which has a segmented, somewhat flattened appearance reminiscent of the ancient trilobite fossils. Combined with their grey colouration and orange-edged segments, they have a distinctive look that sets them apart from more commonly kept species. They're considered beginner-friendly due to their tolerance for varying conditions and willingness to breed in captivity. For keepers wanting something slightly different from the standard Porcellio or Armadillidium species without demanding care requirements, Trachelipus caucasius are worth considering. Trachelipus caucasius: Physical Traits and Characteristics Large species, with adults reaching 2-4 cm in length Grey base colouration across the body Orange or amber-coloured edging along segment margins in many individuals Somewhat flattened body profile compared to rounder Armadillidium species Segmented appearance contributing to the "trilobite" nickname Hard exoskeleton providing protection Cannot fully conglobate (roll into a complete ball) like Armadillidium—they rely on speed and finding cover Prominent antennae and visible uropods Behaviour Trachelipus caucasius are active, adaptable isopods with a peaceful temperament. Activity levels: Once established, they're reasonably active and visible. Their larger size makes them easy to spot when foraging, and they don't hide as constantly as some more secretive species. Temperament: Peaceful and non-aggressive. They coexist well with other isopod species and terrarium inhabitants. They're not predatory and won't cause problems in mixed setups. Temperature tolerance: Their subtropical origins mean they handle temperature variation better than tropical species. They can tolerate cooler conditions (down to around 15°C for short periods) without significant stress, though they thrive best in the 18-26°C range. This makes them suitable for unheated enclosures in many UK homes. Defence: They can't roll into a complete ball like Armadillidium species. When threatened, they rely on moving quickly to find cover. Settling in: Generally adaptable and settle into new enclosures without extended adjustment periods. Diet Trachelipus caucasius are detritivores with undemanding dietary requirements. Primary foods: Dried leaf litter (oak, beech, hawthorn, and similar hardwoods) Decaying hardwood Cork bark Wood pieces Supplementary foods: Vegetables: carrot, courgette, sweet potato, cucumber Dried vegetable scraps work well Fish flakes for protein Small amounts of fruit occasionally Calcium: Important for healthy moulting, especially given their larger size. Provide cuttlefish bone, crushed limestone, or eggshells as a constant calcium source. Feeding approach: They're not fussy eaters. Maintain a base of leaf litter and decaying wood, supplementing with vegetables every few days. Remove uneaten fresh foods within 24-48 hours. Their size means they have reasonable appetites, but don't overfeed—let them work through what's provided before adding more. Trachelipus caucasius: Breeding This species breeds well in captivity, with a reputation for reliable reproduction under appropriate conditions. Breeding basics: Females carry eggs in a marsupium and release fully formed juveniles Breeding rate is good—they're considered fast breeders Brood sizes are reasonable given their larger adult size Population growth is steady under proper conditions Conditions for breeding: Stable temperature within preferred range (18-26°C) Appropriate humidity with moisture available Adequate calcium for breeding females Sufficient hiding spots Consistent food availability Colony growth: Expect reliable population growth without the frustrating waits associated with slow-breeding species. They're productive breeders that will build colony numbers consistently. Trachelipus caucasius: Habitat Setup Enclosure: A medium to large container suits this species well given their size. A 15-20 litre container works for a starter colony, with larger enclosures beneficial as populations grow. Good ventilation is important—their subtropical origins mean they appreciate airflow. Substrate: Use a moisture-retentive substrate that can maintain a humidity gradient: Organic topsoil as a base (pesticide-free) Sphagnum peat moss mixed in for moisture retention Leaf litter worked into the substrate and layered generously on top Decaying hardwood pieces Crushed limestone or calcium powder throughout Substrate depth of 5-10 cm allows for some burrowing and helps maintain stable moisture levels at lower depths. Moisture gradient: They prefer humid conditions but benefit from having both moist and drier areas available. Set up approximately half the enclosure with damp substrate and sphagnum moss, allowing the other half to stay somewhat drier. This lets them regulate their moisture needs. Overall humidity: Aim for 60-75%. They need access to moisture but aren't as humidity-dependent as tropical cave-dwelling species. Regular misting of the humid side maintains appropriate conditions. Ventilation: Medium to high ventilation suits this species. Their subtropical climate origins mean they're accustomed to airflow. Use mesh lids or plenty of ventilation holes. Stagnant, overly humid conditions aren't ideal for them. Décor and hides: Cork bark pieces and tubes Flat bark and wood pieces Leaf litter coverage (they appreciate generous amounts) Hardwood branches Stones or slate pieces Moss patches in the humid area Provide plenty of natural hiding spots. They'll utilise cover throughout the enclosure and feel more secure with options available. Temperature: They tolerate a good range (18-26°C), making them suitable for room temperature conditions in most UK homes. They can handle cooler temperatures better than tropical species—brief drops to 15°C won't cause major problems, though consistent warmth promotes better breeding. Avoid sustained temperatures above 28°C. Bioactive Use Trachelipus caucasius work well as cleanup crew in appropriate bioactive setups. Advantages: Larger size makes them efficient decomposers Peaceful temperament allows cohabitation Temperature tolerance suits varied bioactive environments Hardy nature means they establish reliably Good breeding ensures population maintenance Suitable setups: Their temperature flexibility makes them suitable for a range of bioactive enclosures—from temperate setups to warmer tropical environments. They're particularly useful where temperature may fluctuate seasonally or where other species might struggle with cooler periods. Considerations: Larger adults may be visible in display enclosures (advantage or disadvantage depending on preference) Cannot roll into a ball, so may be more vulnerable to predation by some reptiles than conglobating species Mixed cleanup crews: They coexist peacefully with springtails and other isopod species. Their different niche and peaceful nature makes them suitable for diverse cleanup crew combinations. Suitability Trachelipus caucasius are suitable for keepers wanting a hardy, attractive species with minimal fuss. Good choice for: Beginners wanting something slightly different from common species Keepers in homes with variable temperatures Those wanting a larger, visible isopod species Bioactive setups requiring temperature-tolerant cleanup crew Collectors building diverse collections Not ideal for: Keepers specifically wanting conglobating (ball-rolling) species Extremely high-humidity tropical setups (better options exist) Care level: Low difficulty. They're forgiving of husbandry variations, tolerate temperature fluctuation, breed reliably, and don't have demanding requirements. A good choice for developing isopod-keeping skills or for maintaining functional colonies without constant attention. Value: Good value for an attractive, larger species. They offer interesting appearance and reliable breeding at a reasonable price point, making them practical for both collection and functional bioactive use.