Porcellio Spatulatus 'Coros' Isopods

Bioactive enclosures have become increasingly popular recently, especially among reptile enthusiasts and herpetologists. The good thing about these enclosures is that they are self-sustaining, meaning they use natural microfauna and plants to create a more natural habitat for captive animals. Speaking of which, isopods are a key component of bioactive enclosure. If you plan to include these tiny creatures in your bioactive terrarium, consider Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods. These isopods are known for their beautiful bright colour and flat body. Plus, they are drier than other isopod species.

A Glimpse

• Origin: Coros, Sardinia
• Scientific Name: Porcellio Spatulatus
• Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
• Size: Up to 20 mm
• Rarity: Rare
• Temperature: 18°C - 28°C
• Humidity: 45-55%
• Favourite Food: Fruits, greens, veggies, decaying leaves, fish food

An Overview

Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods are comparatively rarer than other isopod species. They are mostly found in Coros, Sardinia and boast an impressive, flat body. But the most unique thing about these isopods is the bright colour that is unlike any other.

These terrestrial crustaceans belong to the Porcellionidae family and are known for their spatula-shaped bodies. Many people prefer to keep these isopods because they are excellent decomposers. They feed on organic matter and play a crucial role in breaking down decaying plant materials in their natural habitat. 

Due to their unique appearance, they make a great addition to a bioactive enclosure. Additionally, they contribute to nutrient cycling, which is another great reason to have these isopods.

Porcellio Spatulatus Coros Isopods: Basic Care

Keeping these isopods can be a great experience. But before you get them home, you should educate yourself about their care requirements.

• Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods require a slightly drier setup than other isopods. So, you can use a well-ventilated container or terrarium to house these isopods. 
• Ensure the enclosure is large enough for the isopods to move around and provide hiding spots using bark, leaves, and logs.
• The ideal temperature for these isopods is between 18°C and 28°C. By maintaining this temperature range, you can ensure that your isopods are happy and stress-free.
• Since these isopods require less humidity, the ideal range is between 45 and 55%. To maintain the correct humidity level, you can lightly mist the enclosure.
• It is important to maintain adequate airflow inside the enclosure at all times. Failure to do so can lead to mould growth, harming your isopods.

Porcellio Spatulatus Coros Isopods: Feeding

Whether it is Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods or any other species, providing them with a balanced diet is important. Speaking of which, these isopods feed primarily on decaying plant material. But they also like fresh fruits, greens, and vegetables.

You can provide them with decaying wood and leaf litter for primary food. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods love rotting white wood, so offer plenty for those who don't know. These organic materials mimic what they consume in the wild and are also good for their health.

Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods also enjoy fresh vegetables and fruits. It's a good idea to provide them in small amounts so they don't get wasted. You can add fish food, dried shrimp, and fish flakes to their diet for protein. This is important to ensure that they receive a balanced nutrition. Also, don't forget to add different forms of calcium, like limestone granules and oyster seashells.

Last but not least, remove uneaten food to prevent bacterial and mould growth inside the enclosure.

Porcellio Spatulatus Coros Isopods: Appearance And Behaviour

• Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods are visually striking creatures and can grow up to 20 mm.
• Besides the bright colour, Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods have a unique body shape, which makes them stand out from other isopods.
• The uropods found at the end of their bodies are wide and flat, which helps them to balance and move with ease.
• Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods have a hard, segmented exoskeleton that protects them from predators. Additionally, they exhibit a wide range of colours, which makes them even more appealing.
• These isopods are highly active in the night. They will likely explore their surroundings, especially during dusk or dawn. 
• Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods are known to cluster together under leaf litter or bark. That's where they seek shelter during the day.

Porcellio Spatulatus Coros Isopods: Habitat

Porcellio Spatulatus Coros requires a suitable environment to thrive and grow. To replicate their natural habitat in a terrarium, mimicking the forest floors they are accustomed to is important.

When setting up their habitat, you should start with hiding spots. You can use bark, stones, and wood pieces to create hiding areas for your isopods. These tiny creatures use hiding spots to seek shelter and feel safe when threatened.

You must also add a layer of leaf litter to make them feel more comfortable inside the enclosure. Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods use leaf litter as food and also to burrow in.

As mentioned, Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods don't require high humidity levels. This means you can use damp moss to slightly moist the enclosure. Also, make sure that there are dry parts inside the terrarium. This way, you can provide a range of humidity levels to your isopods.

Porcellio Spatulatus Coros Isopods: Substrate Mix

It is essential to use a proper substrate mix, be it Porcellio Spatulatus Coros isopods or any other species. That's because it helps maintain the correct humidity and temperature levels inside the enclosure. A suitable substrate mix can provide your isopods with a comfortable environment to live and reproduce.

Coco fibre is a great base substrate for isopods because it allows them to burrow and retain moisture. Adding a layer of leaf litter on top of the substrate can provide your isopods with food and shelter.

Decaying wood is essential as it mimics their natural habitat and provides additional food. Additionally, you can add crushed eggshells or cuttlebone to give a rich calcium source for your isopods. This is essential for the development of their exoskeleton.