postpods (155)

Giant Orange Isopods (Porcellio laevis), also known as Giant Orange Woodlice, are a more widespread species and are used as custodians in terrariums. It's flamboyant colour and unique features stand out from its marshy environment. Like other Porcellio laevis, these isopods too have large appetites, but the striking orange with a white hue makes them more of a showpiece in people's bioactive enclosure.    Overview Place of Origin: Europe Scientific Name: Porcellio laevis Maintenance effort: Low Ideal Temperature Range: 60°F - 90°F Lifespan: 2 years General Size: 1.8 cm – 2.3 cm Rareness: Low Humidity Range: 55% to 75% Preferred Diet: Fresh vegetables, greens, decaying organic matter Supplements in Addition: Oyster seashells, limestone   Abstract These isopods were discovered first in Europe, but it is argued among intellectuals that laevis originated from North Africa. Due to its popularity, now they are found worldwide. They have a smooth exoskeleton and have a flat body. They are highly active during the daytime. These critters feed on dead and decaying organic matter and plants and, in return, add nutrients to the terrarium. This helps for healthy plant growth.    By consuming the rotten wood and vegetation, they contribute significantly to the ecosystem's balance.    Giant Orange Isopods: Physical Traits and Characteristics Has a distinct orange carapace with a smooth, flat surface.  It has a round body shape that distinguishes it from other elongated isopod species.  They are known to be larger and more aggressive species. They intimidate other isopods using their big bodies.  They grow up to 2cm till adulthood. These creatures require less maintenance.  They are diurnal, i.e., they are active during the day. Their reproduction age starts early before reaching adulthood. They are prolific in nature and breed quickly once established in the terrarium.  They have calcium-rich exoskeleton and are excellent sources of food for amphibians and reptiles.  They prefer damp and humid habitats with lots of ventilation. They are perfect as entry-level isopods.    Giant Orange Isopods: Nourishment Almost every kind of food is consumed by these isopods. Their appetite is true without boundaries, and they consume organic debris, making them essentially scavengers. Providing a balanced diet is essential when a creature is taken care of in a box.  Wood, rotting leaves, greens, mushrooms, and even molting of other invertebrates or reptiles can be added to them. Include vegetables in their diet, like sweet potatoes, carrots, zucchini, etc. Add modest amounts of freshly sliced veggies and adjust as necessary to monitor their food intake.    These species require more calcium and protein compared to other isopod species due to their calcareous exoskeleton. Dried shrimp, fish meals, and oyster shells are excellent sources of calcium and protein for the growth and development of these critters. Another alternative is calcium powder or powdered limestone.    Due to their active nature, it is important to provide calcium and protein-rich food twice a week. Make sure to feed them plenty, as the adult isopods tend to push away juvenile species. Be sure to get rid of the excess food to prevent mold, fruit flies, and other pests.    Giant Orange Isopods: Breeding Males are typically more slender than females. When reaching adulthood, females will have a white cavity in between their legs. Males do not have a cavity.  Mature males often have enlarged reproductive organs, which helps them mate.  Male isopods engage in courtship, and once they succeed, they transfer sperm packets to the female genitalia opening.  After mating, females carry fertilized eggs in a specialized pouch on their abdominal.  Eggs undergo embryonic development in the pouch.  Once isopods are fully developed, offspring are born, and they start exploring their environment. Giant Orange Isopods: Natural Environment Due to their extreme adaptability, giant orange isopods may survive in a variety of environments. Recreating their natural habitat as closely as possible for their health and well-being is essential.  Humidity Levels: These species do well in conditions with high humidity because they love the dampness. They are typically found in moist, shady places like caverns, forest floors, and decaying logs. For their survival and procreation, the moisture content must be maintained.   Substrate: The Giant Orange Isopods prefer substrate with high organic content. Elements such as moss, pieces of rotting white wood, and decaying leaves replicate the environment well.  Temperature: These species are tolerant to extreme drought and various temperatures. But they prefer moderate temperatures around 21°C to 29°C for optimum health.    Giant Orange Isopods: Artificial Enclosure Setting For an artificial setup of isopods, it is recommended to use a plastic shoebox tub with lids. It is important to keep them in a small box first. Transfer them into a bigger container once they start producing offspring and increasing numbers. Like all isopods, the Giant Orange Isopods require moisture for hydration. It is crucial to provide moisture within the bioactive setup by spraying one side of the enclosure with water and leaving the rest dry. Adding moss helps to retain the water and provides a snack for these creatures.    It is necessary to provide small holes around the container walls above the substrate for ventilation and to regulate the enclosure's humidity. Make sure to provide holes above the substrate and away from their reach so that these critters don't escape. Springtails feed on mold, which is formed due to excess moisture. Therefore, it is best to pair them with the Giant Orange Isopods. Together, they will keep the bioactive clean and help the isopods to thrive well in the artificial setting.    Giant Orange Isopods: Substrate Giant Orange Isopods require a suitable substrate to thrive in captivity. Therefore, it is recommended to provide a substrate mix made of coconut coir and peat moss or a substrate mix available online. While buying a substrate mix, ensure a quality mix with good water retention capabilities. The substrate mixture must be moist and covered with a layer of leaf litter. This helps to mimic their natural habitat for the isopods to exhibit natural behaviors. These species like to dig; therefore, the substrate bedding should be 3-4 inches deep.    For humidity, mist one side of the substrate to maintain the gradient. This helps the isopods to migrate from wet to dry when necessary. Add cork bark, coconut shells, and egg cartons to provide hides into the enclosure. They act as an excellent hiding and climbing space for the isopods. Adding multiple hides offers ample room for juveniles and adults and provides an enriching environment. Also, add various types of moss to provide a hiding space and as a snack.    Ensuring the above elements will provide a suitable environment for the isopods in the enclosure. 

One of the most preferred isopods, the high yellow spotted giant isopods oalso knows as Armadillidium Gestroi Isopods Originate from the tropical region of France. These proportionatelysmall isopods are very popular as pets due to their unique appearance and behavior. Thus, good quality, high yellow spotted giant isopods are one of the most sought-after these days. A Glimpse Origin: France Scientific Name: Armadillidium gestroi Difficulty Level: Easy Size: Up to 1.5 Centimeters Rarity: Low/ Medium Temperature: 68℉ to77℉ Humidity: 70% to 80% Favorite Foods: Fish Carcasses, Shrimp   High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods: An Overview  These ispods are not very commonly found in comparison to other popular isotopes from the same origin. These European natives are renownedfor theirvibrant high yellow exoskeletons that exude a radiant glow. They have a distinctive yellow and cream color, scattered patches, and markings. They are suitable for novice keepers. Being native to regions in the Mediterranean and Southern Europe, High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods have an enclosure with high-humidity. They have a veryimpressive appearance.They make good pets because of their ease of care. You can use plastic and glass enclosures to house them. Feeding these isopods is very convenient. These isopods can eat mostly anything from decaying plant and animal matter to vegetables and fungi. You will need to ensure a humid atmosphere to conveniently house them. Minimize exposure to severe weather conditions whenever possible. Basic Care You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to the High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods. You can use either a glass vivarium or plastic containers for housingHigh Yellow Spotted Giant isopods.   Maintain the container’s temperature within 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit.   It is essential to ensure high humidity inside the enclosure.   You can minimize ventilation holes to prevent excessive humidity loss.   Don’tkeep the enclosure in direct light.   Position moss on an enclosure partly. Ensure the moss has enough moisture at all times.   Make use ofdecaying plant and animal matter as food for isopods.   You couldevenfeed them with vegetables, fungi, decaying food, worms, dead insects, leaf litter, lichens, and algae where this is available.   Feeding High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods are detritivores. They mostly consume decaying plant and animal matter only. They also feed on a variety of food items such as leaf litter, algae, etc.  They tend to be voracious eaters. Since they are ahighly active group, it's essential to provide them with adequate and nutritious supplements to ensure their optimal health.These isotope pet owners can use calcium, protein, vitamin E, and vitamin D supplements, etc. One common mistake made by High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopod owners is overfeeding. This can be problematic due to the high humidity levels typically present within the enclosure. In high humidity conditions, any leftover food can rapidly deteriorate. This can encourage mold growth. It can disrupt the balance within the enclosure. It can potentially result in various issues. Therefore, it's recommended to provide only an amount of food that High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods can consume in one feeding session. High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods crave fallen leaves, moss, dead wood, and lynches. They are always looking for food rich in calcium. This is why they often prefer eating different kinds of stones, dead insects, and more. However, you can always feed them with decaying plant matter. Appearance and Behaviour High Yellow Spotted Giant isopod is one relatively small isopod. It can grow to nearly 1.5 centimeters in length.   The isopod species’ name is inspired by its yellow color, scattered markings, and ability to curl into a ball.   These isopods have unique yellow and cream color. They have many markings and scattered patches along their lengths.   As these isopods exude a radiant glow, they make aesthetically appealing pets.   As they reach maturity, their color gradually darkens and becomes more like a brown hue.   Since they don't grow very large in size like the giant worms, these Isopods are well-suited for small pets.   These isotopesmake essential members of the bioactive food chain of a terrarium. They help in decomposition and disease control.   They are very easy to maintain and handle. They make attractive pets for children of young ages.   Habitat Armadillidium Gestroi Isopods thrive in high humidity. This is why it is ideal to create a humid environment for them, minimizing any moisture loss whenever possible. Utilize a plastic container to store the High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods or add them to an enclosure with live terrarium plants. Once these isopod familiarize with the conditions, then you can transfer it to a suitable enclosure. However, it is essential to keep the total of ventilation holes to a minimum. Excessive ventilation holes can lower the internal humidity, potentially causing unprecedented problems for the spotted giant isopods. Elevated humidity in the closure can attract pests. Add springtails inside the enclosure. This will prevent pests from entering the enclosure. Springtails are also effective in managing mold.  High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods: Substrate Mix Selecting the appropriate substrate mix is important for maintaining an ideal habitat for High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods. Since they grow in high humidity conditions, the mix should be advantageous for maintaining such an environment. An optimal mix with excellent water retention properties is essential for preserving high humidity levels within a High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods enclosure. Given their detritivores nature, adding lichens and leaf litter into the substrate mix can be beneficial for them. High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods also enjoy living inside hiding spots as much as possible. Experts highly recommend that you add a thick leaf litter and lichens layer at the top of the mix. You can add things likecoconut coir, charcoal, calcium supplements, etc., in the mix to create a suitable environment for them

Porcellio hoffmannseggi, or the Titan Isopods, are one of the most enormous terrestrial creatures. These are huge compared to other Porcellio genus creatures. These creatures live in dry and less humid environments. Their huge size and features make them unique from other isopods. Due to this, Porcellio Hoffmannseggii is widely sought after and appreciated among isopod enthusiasts. Summary Origin: Spain Common Name: Titan Isopods Maintenance: Medium Temperature: 65℉ - 90℉ Size: 4 cm Rarity: Low to Medium Humidity: 30% to 50% Diet: Fruit, vegetables, dried leaves, fish food Supplements: Cuttlebone or calcium carbonate Porcellio hoffmannseggii orange Isopods: Abstract The Titan Isopods (Porcellio hoffmannseggi) are one of the largest terrestrial isopod species, admired for their impressive size and hardy nature. Known for their distinctive appearance and ability to thrive in drier environments, they are a favorite among isopod enthusiasts. These isopods are ideal for more advanced hobbyists due to their territorial behavior and specific care requirements. Their size and unique characteristics make them a standout addition to any bioactive enclosure Porcellio Hoffmannseggii Isopods: Morphs Though these hoffmannseggii isopods have regular grey exoskeletons, they can still produce offspring in different colours due to genetics. The types of isopods based on colour are: Porcellio hoffmannseggii (Black):- The commonly known isopod colour. Porcellio hoffmannseggii (Brown):- The chocolate morph is its light colouration. Porcellio Hoffmannseggii (White):- The rarest colour among the above. They're completely white in colour. Porcellio hoffmannseggii Isopods: Traits They are one of the largest terrestrial isopods and grow to 4 cm. They prefer dry and less humid conditions with a lot of ventilation. These species are very territorial in nature and chase off other males. They are detritivores in nature, and they prefer decaying hardwood over leaves. They have a hard carapace, with a dark hue and white colour on the skirts. Compared to other isopods, they are not beginner-friendly, as these species are not tolerant to extreme temperatures. The young offspring form their own colony once they breed and produce their offspring. They need a protein-rich and nutritious diet. Nutrition Titan isopods feed on almost all types of food. Primarily, they are detritivores and feed on dead organic matter. But when breeding in an enclosure, providing a balanced nutritional diet is crucial. Unlike other isopods, these critters prefer rotten wood rather than leaves. Vegetables and greens can be included in their diet, along with their primary food. These isopods require a lot of protein and calcium in their diet, especially during mating season. For calcium and protein, dried shrimp, fish food, cuttlebone, and egg shells are great for these species growth and development. Calcium powder is also good to give as a substitute. Most isopod owners make the mistake of overfeeding hoffmannseggiis. These isopods may look huge, but they consume little. Feeding should be limited to enough to finish in a single sitting, ensuring optimal nutrition without unnecessary excess. Porcellio hoffmannseggii Isopods: Breeding and Offsprings Male and female Porcellio Hoffmannseggii can be easily distinguished by the length of their tails, which are also known as uropods. If the temperature and humidity of the enclosure are stable, they will produce quickly and easily with average brood size. After the offspring are hatched, the mothers protect their offspring for the first two moltings. When breeding these isopods, it is crucial to divide the colonies as they are territorial in nature. Porcellio hoffmannseggii Isopods: Artificial Habitat Setting Porcellio hoffmannseggii isopods from the Mediterranean area prefer less moisture with good ventilation. The common mistake made by owners of these isopods is providing a dry, moisture-free enclosure. Lack of moisture will make isopods perish; therefore, it is crucial to offer a steep moisture gradient in the enclosure. Porcellio hoffmannseggii isopods thrive in dry and humid environments. Maintaining the substrate with wet and dry areas allows them to regulate their hydration level. For these isopods to get familiar with artificial enclosure, it is better to keep the Porcellio hoffmannseggii isopods in a small container. Acclimatise to the atmospheric conditions before moving them into a well-ventilated plastic container. They need a big container and a lot of cross-ventilation in the enclosure. Additionally, it provides a lot of options and substrates for these critters to burrow deep and hide. Provide the species with a wide range of materials such as dead wood, dried leaves, sphagnum moss, etc and hardwood pieces for the species to hide and form colonies. These isopods don't tolerate high humidity and extreme temperatures. It is important to maintain a stable temperature of 70℉ and humidity of the enclosure around 30%. Porcellio Hoffmannseggii Isopods: Substrate Mix The moisture-retaining substrate mix for hoffmannseggii isopods should be deep. These animals live around the cliffside in Spain; hence, it is important to create an environment that mimics their natural habitat. A 15L standard-sized large enclosure is needed. However, having a larger plastic enclosure with enough outlets for ventilation is always ideal. A combination of coco coir, hardwood leaves and sphagnum moss will form the base. The substrate mix has to be five centimetres in depth. Porcellio Hoffmannseggii are fond of burrowing, which makes it quite good for them. Adding a few rotten hardwoods makes a perfect home for isopods with their babies inside. The elements, such as wooden bark and dried leaves, create a closer look to their natural environment. The wooden bark is preferred because it decays slowly over time, supplying continuous nutrition. This bark gives cover to the isopods, thereby enhancing the terrarium's appearance. Apart from these basic components, adding a small patch of sphagnum moss will increase moisture retention and preserve the terrarium's microenvironment. This is very important for the Porcellio Hoffmannseggii isopods to get moisture. Ventilation is needed to sustain a healthy balance within the enclosure. Holes are made for ventilation to avoid excess humidity in the enclosure. The substrate's humidity gradient should be set to ¼ area moist and the rest of its size dry. Cuttlebone or calcium supplements are added to the substrate, and these creatures need a lot of protein. A proper balance of these elements helps with the physical health and breeding of Porcellio hoffmannseggii. This captive environment makes the Titan Isopods flourish in this artificial one.  

Miyako isopods are also known as Japanese Red Edge, are another rare species of isopods found. These species are indigenous to the Miyako island of Japan. Due to its striking reddish orange colouration and characteristics makes them unique. Due to the rarity of these species, these are highly sought after by exotic pets who love to collect rare species.  Miyako Isopods: Summary ●      Place of Origin: Miyako Island, Japan ●      Scientific Term: Cubaris sp. "Miyako" ●      Common Name: Miyako Island Isopod ●      Maintenance level: Easy ●      Temperature Range: 68℉-86℉ ●      Size: 1.3 cm ●      Rareness: High ●      Breeding Difficulty: medium ●      Humidity Range: 60% -80% ●      Preferred diet: decaying wood, leaf litter ●      Supplements: Calcium powder, Limestone Miyako Isopods: Abstract These species are found in the limestone island of South Japan. They have a shiny body with bright reddish orange exoskeleton on the skirts and antenna and have a dark black body. For those who are unfamiliar to this species, they may misunderstand this as Cubaris sp. Red Edge. These species have characteristics similar to other cubaris species and require high humidity in their habitat. Miyako Isopods: Physical Traits and Characteristics ●      Indigenous to the Miyako island of Japan, thus the rarity of this species. ●      They are fearless and don't roll as often as other roly polys. ●      Has a smooth carapace with a striking reddish-orange color on the skirts and antennae. ●      They are formally described as Cubaris Iriomotensis, but there is still debate on the classification of these species. ●      It looks similar to the Cubaris Murina Red Edge and, therefore, may get confused if not familiar with the species. ●      These species really enjoy burrowing and so require a thick substrate in their enclosure. ●      Prefer decayed vegetation and wood as they are common in the habitat they are from ●      They require higher calcium and protein compared to other isopods for better health and molting. ●      Easy to maintain but slightly difficult to breed. Therefore, it requires care and attention. Miyako Isopods: Diet Requirements These species prefer decaying organic matter as a primary source of food. But it is essential to provide a balanced diet. These species, like many cubaris sp., require high calcium and protein in their diet. Therefore, it is important to feed them calcium supplements or cuttlebones in the enclosure to meet the calcium requirements. Fish pellets and meat scraps are the best sources of protein and have to be paired with calcium supplements. Other foods for the isopods include pulverized grains, beans and mushrooms can be added into the enclosure. Make sure to provide small food portions in the beginning and observe their eating habits. Slowly increase the amount a bit and make sure not to overfeed them as it can attract pests. Miyako Isopods: Basic Steps for Care ●      A shoebox-size plastic container may be suitable for an enclosure for these tiny species. However, it is best to invest in a glass enclosure to appreciate its beauty, movements, and activity. ●      Make sure the enclosure that you have opted for has ventilation provisions. If not, provide holes around the container. ●      Make sure that the ventilation outlets are not too big, as these species require high moisture. Also, they tend to escape through the ventilation, so it is best to add mesh to the ventilation openings. ●      It is essential to have a perfect balance between the moisture content and the provision for ventilation used in the container. This will help to provide a good environment for the isopods, and they will enjoy better living conditions. ●      The container in which these species are kept should have a controlled lighting mechanism. They are not comfortable with high bright light and prefer dim lights. ●      While feeding the isopods, it is very important to ensure that a mix of decayed leaves and bark is provided. It is also important to ensure that the dried leaves have no pesticide or chemical content. The presence of any kind of chemical compound can severely affect the life span of the species. ●      Adding moss in the enclosure also acts as a hiding place for the isopods and something for these species to snack on. Make sure to add moss periodically to maintain the ecosystem and serve as food for these species. ●      Adding a piece of cuttlebone can help the isopods achieve their calcium intake. Also, when preparing a substrate mix, add earthworm castings in it to provide protein in their diet. ●      When taking care of the isopods, make sure not to pick them up or touch them often, as it may cause stress to these species. Make sure to make less contact with them unless it is for transferring them to different enclosures. Miyako Isopods: Artificial Habitat Cubaris sp. Miyako Isopods are native to the tropical forest of Miyako Island in Japan. These species are more commonly found in highly humid areas with less ventilation. Though these species are very easy to maintain, they can be a tad bit tricky to establish in any artificial container. Therefore, it is important to replicate their natural environment and their native habitat for culturing and for overall well being of the species. In an enclosure, make sure to provide a suitable standard-sized 6 qt container as the frame for the artificial setting. DIY plastic boxes are cheap and effective for culturing, but if you want to watch and appreciate these species' colors and want to observe their activities, glass containers are the best option. When placing the isopods inside the container, ensure there aren't many air ventilation outlets. Too many outlets may result in a decline in humidity within the enclosure, harming the isopod's overall health and well-being. For the substrate make sure to include elements such as flake soil, sphagnum moss, leaf litter, and finally the isopod and springtail mix into the enclosure. Make sure to provide a thick bedding of 4 inches to 6 inches approx. as these species like to dig. When providing moisture make sure that it is done in such a way that it has both dry and wet areas. Add rotten wooden bark inside for creating hiding space as well as for the aesthetic appeal. Add limestone pieces or cuttlebone for nutrition and to mimic their natural environment. Include elements like egg cartons and coconut halves as well for the isopods to explore and to bring out their natural habits like foraging. The temperature for the enclosure should not be above or below the desired temperature. By following these guidelines, you can have healthy, thriving isopods in your enclosure to culture and admire them as pets.

Isopods are tiny animals that do not have backbones. There are over 10,000 species of isopods present worldwide. Isopods are generally small creatures. Their size varies between a couple of micrometers up to a half meter (we don't sell those ones unfortunately) Isopods have a wide distribution geographically. Isopods are present in almost all terrains of the world. It is possible to find isopods in distinctive places like oceans, mountains, deserts, etc. Isopods have recently gained popularity as low-maintenance pets. They are great as beginner-friendly pets. Their ability to adapt to even the harshest conditions and relatively smaller size make them excellent pets.  In addition to being sold alone, they are also available in mystery boxes. Many isopod sellers/breeders offer isopod mystery boxes for customers to purchase. While purchasing a mystery box, the customer is unaware of the isopods that will be inside the box. This creates a high anticipation and excitement in the buyers. A General Overview Scientific Name: Isopoda   Class: Malacostraca   Kingdom: Animalia   Phylum: Arthropoda Isopod Mystery Box The Isopod mystery box is a very popular product for hobbyists for a variety of reasons. An isopod mystery box is a random collection of various isopods. The content and the isopod species in a mystery box will be unknown to the buyer until they receive it.  At PostPods, the isopod mystery boxes we offer contain extra isopods worth upto 50% more than the original  mystery box purchaseprice. These mystery boxes enable the buyer to receive a surprise element and the added value for the money paid. Although the selection of isopods for the mystery box is random, we list all the isopods we have available on our website. So, you will only recieve isopods from our listed items online. Why A Mystery Box? Brands and businesses worldwide have been developing a particular interest in the concept of mystery boxes. The idea of sending random products from a business’s collection sounds very interesting. It also creates a significant sense of curiosity and novelty for the buyers.  The pleasant surprise that the buyers feel when opening the mystery box is sure to cause significant dopamine release. The pleasure felt will be even more remarkable when the surprise is regarding live creatures or animals. Through mystery boxes of isopods, PostPods attempts to do the same. The team expects to make it a pleasant surprise for the buyers on which isopod they receive.  Types of Isopods in the Isopod Mystery Box As mentioned before, an isopod mystery box from PostPods contains some of the most popular types of isopods. They are explained in detail below (but not restricted to these types). Cubaris Cubaris is a very popular genus of creatures that contains over 100 species. Cubaris isopods are incredibly popular as pets as they require pretty low maintenance. When compared to other isopods, the Cubaris isopods have a relatively longer lifespan. Their reproduction rates are pretty low.  Cubaris isopods are very easy to take care of. These isopods are in high demand and are a bit expensive, so they are a valuable addition to any mystery box. The incredibly popular pet isopod called Rubber Ducky comes under the Cubaris genus. Some of the other famous members of the Cubaris genus are as follows. Porcellio Porcellio isopods are a possible addition to the isopod mystery boxes. Porcellio genus isopods are in great demand in the pet isopod world. Isopods of the Porcellio genus are found around the globe. Many isopods in the genus can withstand almost all kinds of harsh conditions. As of now, about 200 species have been reported to be a part of the Porcellio genus. A good number of these species are suitable to rear as pets. The very popular pet isopod called Dairy Cow is a member of the Porcellio genus. The isopods in the Porcellio genus generate great curiosity among buyers for their unique defence mechanism of running in a maze-like pattern. Their polymorphic trait is also unique. Armadillidium Armadillidium is a highly sold pet isopod genus. The isopod members of this genus are all in wide demand worldwide. The characteristic feature of the Armadillidium genus isopods is their ability to roll into a ball as part of the defence. Armadillidium isopods are one of the most commonly available isopods. They are also sold in bulk numbers due to the ease of caring for them. There are about 189 species present in the Armadillidium genus. 

St. Lucia isopods (AKA Jelly Bean Isopods) are popular pet isopods sold worldwide in huge numbers. They were initially found on Saint Lucia island. They are popularly known as jelly bean isopods due to the variety of colours they exhibit among themselves.  These isopods, even from the same colony, come in various colours. They are usually found in uncommon colours like dark burgundy, yellow, orange, etc. With a maximum length of about ¾ inches, they are perfect as pet isopods. A Glimpse Jelly beans are one of my favourite isopods, like the gestrois these are very confident isopods with great appetites, they are often seen ontop of the cork bark in the tub and unlike a lot of other isopods which wait until it's quiet or the lights go off before getting food you add to the tub, Jelly beans go for the food right away and eat it very quickly alos. Origin: Saint Lucia Island  Scientific Name: Armadillidium Vulgare St. Lucia Difficulty Level: Easy Size: Up to ¾ inch Rarity: Common Temperature: 70°F to 80°F Humidity: 70% to 80% Favourite Foods: Organic matter An Overview Jelly Bean isopods are naturally found on Saint Lucia island. They are very suitable for pet rearing in small to medium enclosures. They are incredibly popular in the pet isopod world for their colour variation traits. It is generally observed that even the same colony these isopods exhibit a vast colour variation.  Many experiments have been conducted to isolate the colours found among these isopods. Researchers have mated jelly bean isopods of the same colour to produce a single-coloured isopod. But despite the same colour parents, the offspring tend to show their typical colour variation. The colours of these isopods include orange, grey, yellow, burgundy, etc. The colour variation makes them the best addition to any vivarium. They grow up to ¾ inch and have a smooth segmented body.  Basic Care Before proceeding to the details regarding the feeding, enclosure, substrate mix, etc., for Jelly Bean isopods, here are some pointers on how to provide primary care for these isopods. Even though Jelly Bean isopods are small, they need a spacious enclosure to move around in.  It is advisable not to purchase a single Jelly Bean isopod alone. Jelly Bean isopods are highly social creatures. They need to have the presence of their fellow colony members to survive well. Retaining moisture is essential for Jelly Bean isopods. So, getting some hiding spots for the isopod enclosure is advisable. A critical thing to remember regarding Jelly Bean isopods is that they reproduce quickly. Unlike the other isopods, Jelly Bean isopods follow the ‘brood pouching’ method to protect the laid egg. Brood pouching is a unique reproductive strategy where the female creature tends to carry the laid eggs in a pouch until and unless they are ready to hatch. The pouch ensures the survival of the offspring by providing them protection. Feeding The diet of these isopods should contain protein-rich and calcium-rich foods. They need to get all their essential nutrients from the diet they follow. Leaf litter is the most common food for Jelly Bean isopods.  Jelly Bean isopods are generally detritivores. They love to consume organic matter. They are also quite fond of fruits, vegetables, etc. The fruits that can be given to Jelly Bean isopods are as follows. Apples   Berries   Bananas   Leafy greens The vegetables suitable for Jelly Bean isopods are as follows. Carrots   Zucchini   Cucumber Following are some protein sources for Jelly Bean isopods. Shrimp pellets   Fish food flakes   Crushed pet food Following are some calcium sources for Jelly Bean isopods. Cuttlebone powder   Calcium supplement Appearance and Behaviour Appearance  St Lucia isopods are relatively small and grow to only ¾ inches. They have a segmented body covered in a shiny exoskeleton. They come in many colours, including red, yellow, and orange. Behavior Jelly Bean isopods are social creatures. They can survive only when in groups. They interact with their colony members regularly. Usually, in colonies, there is a social hierarchy. There will always be dominant isopods in a colony that leads and controls the pack. The dominant isopods exhibit stacking, which is placing oneself above another to display dominance.  Habitat The right habitat is crucial for the survival of St Lucia isopods. As these isopods are originally from a humid environment, the enclosure must mimic the conditions of their natural habitat. St Lucia isopods are colorful creatures. So, using a transparent case, container, or tank to make an enclosure is ideal. A transparent enclosure will make it visible to watch the activities of the isopods. When deciding on the size of the enclosure, make sure that there is enough space for the isopods to move around freely. There should also be enough space for ventilation and air movement inside the enclosure. The insides of the enclosure should be designed to retain maximum humidity. The first step is to fill the enclosure with a moisture-retaining substrate mix. There should also be enough hiding spots inside the enclosure. Driftwood, bark, cork tubes, etc., can be placed on the enclosure's surface inside. These items act as activity courses for the isopods and also as hiding spots. A water dish with clean water is necessary inside the enclosure. The enclosure's surface should also be sprayed with water occasionally to keep it moist. Gentle heat sources like lamps could be an excellent addition to Jelly Bean enclosures. St Lucia isopods needs gentle light. So, providing a gentle light source inside the enclosure will also be helpful. Substrate Mix A smooth and moist substrate mix is ideal for the survival of these isopods. The mix should be soft enough for the isopods to burrow into. It should also retain as much moisture as possible. Some of the most suitable substrate options for Jelly Beans are as follows. Coconut fiber   Sphagnum moss   Peat moss   Leaf litter The substrate mix in the enclosure should provide maximum humidity. Leaf litter is an excellent option for maintaining humidity inside the enclosure and can also be used as a food source.  It is advisable to spray water into the substrate mix to maintain its moisture content. However, it is essential not to overwet the substrate. Extra moisture in the substrate can cause mold and bacteria to grow.

Everything you like about normal gestoris but over 20% bigger - meet the Jumbo Gestroi Isopods originate from the tropical region of France. These are very similar to the normal gestrois however the JUMBO type are said to be around 20% larger however I personally would say they are larger than that. The neon yellow on them is brighter in appearance compared to the normal gestrois. High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: France Scientific Name: Armadillidium gestroi Difficulty Level: Easy Size: Up to 1.8 Centimeters Rarity: Low/ Medium Temperature: 68℉ to77℉ Humidity: 70% to 80% Favourite Foods: Fish Carcasses, Shrimp   Jumbo Gestroi Isopods: An Overview High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods are not very commonly found in comparison to other popular isotopes from the same origin. These European natives are renownedfor theirvibrant high yellow exoskeletons that exude a radiant glow. They have a distinctive yellow and cream color, scattered patches, and markings. They are suitable for novice keepers. Being native to regions in the Mediterranean and Southern Europe, High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods have an enclosure with high-humidity. They have a veryimpressive appearance.They make good pets because of their ease of care. You can use plastic and glass enclosures to house them. Feeding Jumbo Gestroi Isopods is very convenient. These isopods can eat mostly anything from decaying plant and animal matter to vegetables and fungi. You will need to ensure a humid atmosphere to conveniently house them. Minimize exposure to severe weather conditions whenever possible. High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods: Basic Care You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to the High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods. You can use either a glass vivarium or plastic containers for housing for your Jumbo Gestroi Isopods. Maintain the container’s temperature within 68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit. It is essential to ensure high humidity inside the enclosure. You can minimize ventilation holes to prevent excessive humidity loss. Don’t keep the enclosure in direct light. Position moss on an enclosure partly. Ensure the moss has enough moisture at all times. Make use of decaying plant and animal matter as food for isopods. You could even feed them with vegetables, fungi, decaying food, worms, dead insects, leaf litter, lichens, and algae where this is available.   High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods: Feeding High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods are detritivores. They mostly consume decaying plant and animal matter only. They also feed on a variety of food items such as leaf litter, algae, etc.  They tend to be voracious eaters. Since they are ahighly active group, it's essential to provide them with adequate and nutritious supplements to ensure their optimal health.These isotope pet owners can use calcium, protein, vitamin E, and vitamin D supplements, etc. One common mistake made by High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopod owners is overfeeding. This can be problematic due to the high humidity levels typically present within the enclosure. In high humidity conditions, any leftover food can rapidly deteriorate. This can encourage mold growth. It can disrupt the balance within the enclosure. It can potentially result in various issues. Therefore, it's recommended to provide only an amount of food that Jumbo Gestroi Isopods can consume in one feeding session. High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods crave fallen leaves, moss, dead wood, and lynches. They are always looking for food rich in calcium. This is why they often prefer eating different kinds of stones, dead insects, and more. However, you can always feed them with decaying plant matter. High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour High Yellow Spotted Giant isopod is one relatively small isopod. It can grow to nearly 1.5 centimeters in length.   The isopod species’ name is inspired by its yellow color, scattered markings, and ability to curl into a ball.   These isopods have unique yellow and cream color. They have many markings and scattered patches along their lengths.   As these isopods exude a radiant glow, they make aesthetically appealing pets.   As they reach maturity, their color gradually darkens and becomes more like a brown hue.   Since they don't grow very large in size like the giant worms, these Isopods are well-suited for small pets.   These isotopesmake essential members of the bioactive food chain of a terrarium. They help in decomposition and disease control.   They are very easy to maintain and handle. They make attractive pets for children of young ages.   Jumbo Gestroi Isopods: Habitat High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods thrive in high humidity. This is why it is ideal to create a humid environment for them, minimizing any moisture loss whenever possible. Utilize a plastic container to store the Jumbo Gestroi Isopods or add them to an enclosure with live terrarium plants. Once these isopod familiarize with the conditions, then you can transfer it to a suitable enclosure. However, it is essential to keep the total of ventilation holes to a minimum. Excessive ventilation holes can lower the internal humidity, potentially causing unprecedented problems for the spotted giant isopods. Elevated humidity in the closure can attract pests. Add springtails inside the enclosure. This will prevent pests from entering the enclosure. Springtails are also effective in managing mold.  Jumbo Gestroi Isopods: Substrate Mix Selecting the appropriate substrate mix is important for maintaining an ideal habitat for High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods. Since they grow in high humidity conditions, the mix should be advantageous for maintaining such an environment. An optimal mix with excellent water retention properties is essential for preserving high humidity levels within a High Yellow Spotted Giant Isopods enclosure. Given their detritivores nature, adding lichens and leaf litter into the substrate mix can be beneficial for them. High Yellow Spotted Giant isopods also enjoy living inside hiding spots as much as possible. Experts highly recommend that you add a thick leaf litter and lichens layer at the top of the mix. You can add things likecoconut coir, charcoal, calcium supplements, etc., in the mix to create a suitable environment for them

Jupiter Isopods (Cubaris sp.) are a captivating addition to any terrarium, known for their unique black and yellow exoskeleton that resembles the planet Jupiter. Native to the limestone caves of Southeast Asia, these small, low-maintenance isopods thrive in humid environments and are ideal for beginners. With their calm nature and slow breeding habits, they make a striking and manageable choice for isopod enthusiasts, perfect for both display and care. A Glimpse ●      Origin: Thailand ●      Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. "Jupiter Isopods" ●      Maintenance required: low ●      Average Size: 2 cm ●      Rarity: medium ●      Lifespan: 2-3 years ●      Temperature: 64℉-79℉ ●      Ventilation: Low ●      Humidity: 60-80% ●      Favorite food: Carrots, butternut squash, sweet potatoes ●      Supplements: Crushed limestone, Cuttlefish bone Jupiter Isopods: Introduction These roly polys, like other cubaris isopods, are found in limestone caves of Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries. These have a very calm temperament and is a great beginner-friendly isopods. They are active during early morning and nighttime, so you can watch these critters move around exploring the terrarium during that time. They may be similar to the lemon blue isopods, but these species have a black color on the exoskeleton and not blue. Jupiter Isopods: Physical Traits and Characteristics ●      These small roly polys are one of the morphs of Cubaris sp. isopods. Their color resembles the planet Jupiter, hence the name. ●      Have small oval bodies that are segmented and have antennae. They have colorful legs in the front area, which makes them unique. ●      They have yellow outlines with black segmented exoskeletons. The colours of these species are due to the acidic nature of the soil in their native land. ●      The wax layer on their exoskeleton helps with hydration, and they molt when the isopods mature and grow. ●      Absolutely delightful and low-maintenance pets which are easy to take care of. ●      These species are egg-breeding type isopods and are slow breeders. ●      These pets are kid-friendly and beginner-friendly. ●      These species are striking and visually appealing, thus making a great addition to your terrarium and vivarium. Diet Like many isopods, these species' primary food sources are rotten leaves, plants, algae, and wooden bark. When culturing them in a terrarium or vivarium, make sure to provide a balanced diet of vegetables, meat, and calcium sources. If not, these creatures are prone to soft shell disease, which may affect molting and eventually perish. Therefore, make sure to provide various types of vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots and even vegetable scraps. These species are not picky eaters and will eat almost everything that is given to them. For protein you can include earthworm castings, fish scrap, meat scrap into their diet. Adding crushed limestone, eggshells or cuttlebone in their enclosure can improve their calcium intake and will strengthen their exoskeleton. Adin commercial isopod food mix can also help achieve the necessary nutrition for these tiny critters. Make sure to provide portions that can be completed in a single session. Observe and provide food according to the size of the culture. Jupiter Isopods: Personality These species in general have a mild and non-aggressive nature. But when there are other creatures present, then they tend to be a little skittish. They tend to hide when they sense other creatures are present. They don't like to be picked up or touched unless necessary and they roll up and freeze when they feel threatened. Though these creatures love to explore the environment and continue with their natural behaviors like foraging. They are not the best tankmates with other isopods or any other species and tend to attack if kept in a small enclosure. Therefore, it is crucial that there is space in the enclosure. These species take their time to be friendly with their human parents. With trust and patience and also by feeding them their favorite food, these species can become friendly with humans. Jupiter Isopods: Breeding ●      Jupiter isopods can lay eggs without any male isopods, i.e., they are parthenogenetic in nature. This phenomenon is quite common among the isopods. ●      They are seasonal breeders and have a slow reproduction rate compared to other species. ●      The procedure begins when the female produces an egg capsule. After that, she would usually lay the egg capsule in a damp, moist place. ●      The number of eggs in each capsule can range from one to twenty-one, depending on the species. It takes the baby isopods 6-7 weeks after hatching to mature into adults. ●      Once they hatch, they become independent and explore and forage food on their own. ●      The nymphs will molt around four times in their early lives. The Jupiter Isopods enter the reproductive cycle after reaching adulthood, and they can begin to procreate in around three weeks. Jupiter Isopods: Tips to Make an Artificial Habitat The Jupiter isopods prefer tropical climates with rich soil substrate and humidity. Providing a rich substrate mix that contains organic matter will help provide them with a more natural atmosphere for the enclosure. When choosing the enclosure, make sure that there is enough size for these species to breed and produce offspring. Therefore, it is crucial to get a 19-litre capacity plastic container as a starter for the enclosure. You can also opt for a bigger plastic enclosure of 38 litres. Drill small ventilation outlets on the container and make sure that they are small. These species thrive in a humid environment thus small outlets help prevent excess humidity. Temperature within the enclosure should be maintained the same as specified in the description as constant change in temperature may cause stress to these species. Add the substrate mix into the enclosure to make sure that there is enough thickness. A thickness of 2.5 inches is ideal for these species to dig and hide. Add sphagnum moss on one side of the enclosure. Make sure that they cover ⅓ of the container and mist the area with water. Leave the rest of the substrate dry, giving them the option to choose their environment. When adding the substrate mix, make sure to mix dried leaves into it. Sprinkle some more on top of the substrate as well. Adding egg crates and rotten bark or coconut shells can act as hiding spots for the isopod colonies. Adding these hiding spots helps to differentiate each brood and colony and it reduces competition and dominance among other colonies.

One of the most popular Thailand natives, the lemon blue isopods are medium-sized isopods. These exotic Cubaris species are beginner-friendly isopods that will make a great fit for medium-humid enclosure setups. The visually striking Lemon Blue isopods are yellowish blue in colour. They require minimal maintenance and medium upkeep. They are the most adorable Cubaris species out there. These basic isopod setup residents are quite in demand right now. These interesting but very mischievous isopods can make the most amusing pets. Lemon Blue Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Thailand, China Scientific Name: Cubaris sp “Lemon Blue” Difficulty: Medium Rarity: High Temperature: 70 to 85℉ Size: 2 cm Humidity: 60 to 80% Favourable Foods: Cuttlebone, fish food, decaying leaves An Overview Lemon Blue isopods are well-known to be tropical and temperate environment thrivers. These Thailand natives are acclaimed by isopod collectors for their color variation that perfectly resonates with their name. The Lemon Blue isopods make a suitable fit for beginners. These isopods have a hard exterior and that’s why they are not an ideal option as a feeder isopod. Lemon Blue isopods have a yellow body and blue inner pereons. They possess a bicolour appearance of shiny blue and yellow that resembles candy. They can be added to an isopod setup with foods like Astaxanthin and carotene. Their back shines in the light and flashes blue colour. They can suffer from discolouration over periods, but foods like Astaxanthin and carotene will help them restore their rich yellow colour.  Lemon Blue isopods are a Thai species that grow well in moist environments with temperatures between 70 to 85℉. These semi-social species can thrive in groups and possess social behaviours. Lemon Blue isopods are not strongly social. These Cubaris sp isopods can tolerate living alone. They tend to become active and visible inside a terrarium setup as their population grows.  The yellowish-blue isopods are known to consume sweet potato and butternut quash. The colouration of the Lemon Blue isopods becomes a deeper yellow-blue when they are consistently fed carrots and cucumbers. They can eat a variety of different foods, including bee pollen and calcium powder supplements. You must provide a varied diet to the Lemon Blue isopods to ensure their colour does not really change and improves with age.  Lemon Blue Isopods: Basic Care You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to the Lemon Blue isopods. Use a large bioactive terrarium setup with enough space to house the Lemon Blue isopods. Keep the humidity of the container within 60 to 80 per cent.  Avoid keeping the enclosure in direct light.  Maintain the shiny yellowish blue appearance of Lemon Blue isopods by feeding them butternut squash and sweet potato.  Inconsistent feeding habits can make the Lemon Blue isopods lose their coloration. Feed them carrots and cuttlebone to deepen their coloration.  The Lemon Blue isopods are medium-sized isopods that need a minimal level of care.  These Cubaris sp isopods are active species and also semi-social isopods.  The Lemon Blue isopods won’t mind living alone because of their semi-social behaviour. The Cubaris sp “Lemon Isopods” are fascinating species that can sometimes need little more maintenance but not always. Lemon Blue Isopods: Feeding Lemon Blue isopods are detrivores. They feed on food like decaying organic matter, including decaying wood, leaf litter, and fish food. They also feed on rotten hardwoods and oyster shells. They primarily eat calcium supplements like cuttlebone. You can give them foods with carotene and Astaxanthin to enrich their colour. They love eating red parrot fish a lot.  Lemon Blue isopods are Asian isopods that absolutely adore eating carrots. You can maintain the balanced diet of these Cubaris sp isopods by giving them birch and black walnuts. You can also feed them gammarus shrimp and fish flakes. You can feed these extremely handy isopods limestone and dried fruit bites.  Lemon Blue isopods crave food like lichen and insect jelly. You can always feed them sweet fruits and spirulina. You can also give these Cubaris sp isopods banana and mango. The Lemon Blue isopods also never hesitate to take a bite of bat guano (excrement of bats). Lemon Blue Isopods: Appearance And Behavior Lemon Blue isopods are yellow-coloured Cubaris sp species that can lose their colour over time. This is why it is essential for collectors to feed them foods rich in Astaxanthin and carotene.  These Cubaris sp isopods are slow breeders, unlike other Cubaris sp species out there. The Lemon Blue isopods are bold pets that are non-aggressive in nature. These Cubaris sp “Lemon Blue” isopods may hide around other creatures.  Terrarium setups that have a moist environment are best suited for the Lemon Blue isopods.  These little creatures can grow well in temperate and moist environments. They are bicoloured isopods that sometimes look like eye candy. Lemon Blue isopods are bold colored species that will take from three to four months to make their stable breeding colony.  The colouration of the Lemon Blue isopods deepens with their age. Lemon Blue Isopods: Habitat Lemon Blue isopods prefer humid and tropical regions, such as China and Thailand. They need properly ventilated terrarium setups where they keep moving freely. They can handle moist environments pretty comfortably.  They are woodland natives that will thrive well in natural habitats. You can use a plastic container or a glass terrarium with a secure lid to house the Lemon Blue isopods. You can maintain humidity levels inside the Lemon Blue Isopods’ enclosure to boost their overall health. Lemon Blue Isopods: Substrate Mix The substrate mix of the Lemon Blue isopods can include sphagnum moss and coconut fibre to retain the terrarium’s moisture level. You can use a reptile fogger or dechlorinated water to mist the terrarium setup regularly. You can add decaying organic matter to meet these Cubaris sp isopod’s nutritional requirements. Isopod collectors can add decaying wood and leaf litter accompanied with calcium-rich supplements.  Create hiding spots using cork bark inside the enclosure to mimic their natural habitat. A low-wattage lamp can be beneficial for maintaining a desired temperature inside the terrarium setup. We notice that the colours of Lemon blues is greatly improved with a died containing regular carrot, butternut quash and sweet potato. Combined with the right supplements, these isopods showcase an extraordinary blend of bright lemon and blue, unmatched by any other isopods. We find these not as forgiving as some other isopods so not something for a beginner as they also require a little more maintenance, but once you have this right they are very easy to maintain. Difficulty Level: Medium Temp: 70F-80F Humidity: 70% - 80% Size: Upto 2cm Origin: Thailand Rarity: Very High Favourite Foods: Leaf litter, Carrot, Cucumber, fish food Supplements: Cuttlebone (or calcium powder), bat guano, bee pollen Comments: Lemon Blue Isopods when we first got them we were not too excited when we saw them but after settling in the colours really changed and seem to also improve with age. These seem a little slower than the Ambers to breed even though we started with the same care and setup for each as they are both Cubaris sp.