Hallaniyat Island 'Oman' Isopods (Periscyphis sp)

 A rare desert isopod that will thrive in a drier enclosure.

• Origin: Warm desert islands off the coast of Oman.

• Scientific Name:  Periscyphis sp

• Difficulty Level

• Size: 1.7cm

• Rarity: Rate

• Temperature: 24-27ºC

• Humidity: Low

• Diet: All the usuals however these tend to like fish flake a lot in particular

 The Hallaniyat Islands rise out of the Indian Ocean, granite chimneys’ surrounded by limestone bluffs, and rocky arid landscapes. Hot and dry for most of the year, only during Khareef, a windy foggy period from mid March to mid September, does the humidity increase as the fog rolls in from the ocean.

 Little plant life and arid conditions in their natural range make these isopods a real rarity. Unlike most species that need higher humidity to allow them to breathe, these can thrive in low humidity. A great clean-up crew for Bearded Dragon enclosures, a variety of gecko enclosures, and many desert species. Also perfect to add to a dryer terrarium, such as those with desert-loving air plants, cacti, aloe, and other succulents.

 UNESCO has outlined a plan to make the Hallaniyat Islands a national park, meaning that the collecting of these species will be restricted or even stopped, luckily we have fantastic breeding stock, but it’s likely in the future these may become difficult to buy in the UK.  

 With less than 10cm of rain annually in their native range, keeping Hallaniyat Island 'Oman' Isopods can be straightforward. A simple misting in one corner of the enclosure every so often can be all they need in terms of water. Watch their behaviour and if they’re gathering close to the wet area increase the misting slightly.  They need to be kept warm, 24-27ºC. If kept in a bioactive terrarium with a temperature and humidity gradient then they will find their ideal temperature. In the wild they only come out at night and gather in large groups, this is likely to avoid the hot daytime temperatures, in your enclosure you may be lucky to see a group of these starting to gather in the evening as they get bolder.

  In their natural habitat there are low levels of plant life, but lots of bird guano, but they are relatively flexible in terms of feeding. Make sure the protein levels are adequate, with foods such as fish pellets, and similar. Ensure they have a place that mimics their natural rocky habitats, and consider adding mosses as many species grow in their natural range.

A rare, slightly challenging, but very rewarding species of isopod that will make a great addition to your collection.