Scaber Ghost Isopods (Porcellio) - Isopods For Sale UK I PostPods

Scaber Ghost Isopods (Porcellio)

£12.50

Scaber Ghost Isopods (Porcellio)

£12.50

Scaber Ghost Isopods (Porcellio)

£12.50

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Product description

These ethereal beauties from Europe have captured the hearts of isopod enthusiasts worldwide with their ghostly pale appearance and beginner-friendly nature. Originally derived from the common rough woodlouse through selective breeding, Ghost Scabers display stunning color variations from pale mauve to ghostly white, making them a captivating addition to any bioactive setup.

A Glimpse

Origin: Europe (Captive Bred) • Scientific Name: Porcellio scaber 'Ghost' • Difficulty Level: Low - Beginner Friendly • Adult Size: Up to 20mm (0.79 inches) • Rarity: Medium • Temperature: 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C) • Humidity: 50% to 60% with moisture gradient • Favorite Foods: Hardwood leaf litter, decaying wood, vegetables • Supplements: Fish flakes, dried shrimp, calcium sources

Overview

Ghost Scabers are a selectively bred color morph of the European common woodlouse, displaying reduced pigmentation that creates their signature ghostly appearance. These hardy isopods range from pale purple-mauve to yellowish-white, with their ethereal coloration making them stand out beautifully against dark substrates. Unlike their wild-type cousins, Ghost Scabers cannot roll into a ball when threatened, but they make up for this with their incredible speed and fascinating social behaviors. Their hard, calcified exoskeletons covered in small tubercles give them their "rough woodlouse" common name, while their peaceful temperament makes them ideal for beginners.

Basic Care

Ghost Scabers are remarkably adaptable and forgiving, making them perfect for newcomers to the isopod hobby. They prefer moderate humidity levels between 50-60% with essential moisture gradients - never keep the entire enclosure uniformly moist. These semi-arid species require more ventilation than tropical isopods, needing moderate airflow to prevent stagnation while maintaining proper humidity. Temperature stability between 60-85°F works perfectly, though they're quite tolerant of minor fluctuations. The key to success is providing choice - create both moist and dry areas so they can regulate their own needs.

Feeding

Calcium • Cuttlebone pieces (essential for molting) • Crushed eggshells • Limestone granules mixed into substrate • Calcium powder dusted on vegetables occasionally

Protein • Fish flakes or pellets twice weekly • Dried shrimp (remove after 24 hours) • Isopod-specific protein pellets • Freeze-dried bloodworms occasionally

Leaf Litter • Hardwood leaves (oak, maple, birch preferred) • Keep thick layer covering entire substrate surface • Replace sections as they decompose • White rotten wood pieces for additional nutrition

Appearance and Behaviour

Ghost Scabers showcase the most enchanting color variations, ranging from pale mauve-purple to ghostly yellowish-white, with some individuals displaying subtle cream tones. Adults reach an impressive 17-20mm, making them substantial enough to observe their fascinating behaviors. These highly social creatures naturally form aggregations, particularly when conditions become challenging. They're primarily nocturnal but remain active during the day under cover, making them surprisingly visible pets. When disturbed, they exhibit impressive speed rather than defensive rolling, quickly scuttling to safety under leaf litter or hides. Their two white pseudolungs are clearly visible on their undersides, and females develop distinctive brood pouches when carrying eggs.

Habitat

A standard 6-quart container works perfectly for starter colonies, while established groups thrive in 25+ quart setups or 10+ gallon terrariums. The essential element is creating distinct moisture zones - approximately one-quarter to one-third of the enclosure should remain moist while the majority stays dry. Cork bark pieces provide excellent climbing opportunities and shelter, while a thick layer of leaf litter covers the entire substrate surface. Ventilation is crucial - provide holes at the container's top (never the sides) to prevent the "chimney effect" that can over-dry the environment. These active burrowers appreciate substrate depths of 1-3 inches for their digging behaviors.

Substrate Mix

Create the perfect environment using this proven mixture:

Base Layer (70%): • Quality organic topsoil (fertilizer-free) • Forest leaf mold for natural pH buffering • Small amount of peat moss for moisture retention

Amendments (30%): • 10-15% white rotten wood pieces (essential nutrition source) • 5-10% limestone granules (calcium supplementation) • Optional: Small amount of sand for drainage • Avoid fertilized soils or substrates with chemicals

Moisture Management: Keep the substrate slightly moist but never waterlogged. The moist section should use sphagnum moss patches that you regularly mist, while the dry section remains completely unmisted. This gradient allows proper osmoregulation and prevents both desiccation and drowning. Monitor moisture levels weekly and adjust misting frequency based on your home's humidity levels.

pH Considerations: Ghost Scabers prefer neutral to slightly alkaline conditions. The limestone amendments naturally buffer the pH while providing essential calcium. Test occasionally with basic pH strips to ensure levels remain between 7.0-8.5 for optimal health and successful breeding.

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