Ying Yang Isopods (Porcellio Scaber)

Isopods as pets are becoming extremely popular among the masses.  But if you want an easy-to-care species, choose Ying Yang isopods. Found rarely in other species of isopod, Ying Yang isopods can adapt to different environments, making it ideal even for a novice to have it as a pet. 

Ying Yang Isopods: A Glimpse

• Origin: Europe

• Scientific Name: Porcellio Scaber "Ying Yang"

• Difficulty: Easy

• Temperature: 18–26°C

• Rarity: Not rare

• Size: Up to 1.7 cm

• Humidity: 70-80%

• Favorable Foods: Leafy Greens, Mushrooms, Carrots, Decaying wood

An Overview

Ying Yang isopods originated in Europe, but they are not rare like other species. They also have striking black, orange, and red patterns that are uncommon in the isopod world. You can find them in pet shops or online sites that deal with these creatures easily.

Though the size of isopods depends on their ideal environment, Ying Yang isopods survive in any ambiance and grow up to 1.7 cm long. Looking like molten lava, these species become a more fascinating creature, which can be kept a terrarium if the moisture level is thoroughly maintained. 

Ying Yang Isopods: Basic Care

We have detailed a few tips that you should follow to care for your isopods.

• Feed them leafy greens and other decaying matter because it is essential for their development.

• Use a paludarium or terrarium to keep your isopods. But ensure it has a secure lid to trap moisture and heat. 

• Set up a semi-moist vivarium where your isopods can live comfortably. But maintain the right temperature and humidity. 

• You should use the right substrate mix for your isopods. For Ying Yang isopod, anything which retains moisture like peat moss and coconut coir. 

• You must ensure the terrarium receives proper lighting as it is essential for their bioPeatate hiding spots. Using leaves or bark for Ying Yang isopods, your isopods feel safe.

Ying Yang Isopods: Feeding

Ying Yang isopods need a balanced diet to maintain their health and stay healthy. You can feed them various organic foods like fruits, mushrooms, decaying plant matter, and vegetables that benefit their health. Besides that, please provide them with protein-rich foods like organic plant scraps and dried vegetables twice a week.

Ying Yang Isopods: Appearance & Behaviour

• Ying Yang isopods are smaller than other isopods. They are only 1.7 cm, making them suitable for small enclosures. 

• These isopods are among the best-looking creatures. Their exoskeletons have attractive black, orange, or red patterns.

• They have 14 legs to move fast and climb rough surfaces in their natural habitat.

• Ying Yang isopods thrive in low to moderate humidity. But they can adjust to different environments.

• As a nocturnal species, they prefer to live in the dark during the day and come out to come at night. 

Ying Yang Isopods: Habitat

These isopods need an environment that mimics their original habitat, which is dark and humid. Maintaining the habitat is even more important than creating one. To preserve their habitat, add moist soil, damp leaf litter, and decaying wood. The substrate mix is equally important for regulating their natural habitat. 

Ying Yang Isopods: Substrate Mix

Isopods need a good substrate mix. You cannot make your isopods healthy unless you meet this requirement. Items like coconut fiber, sphagnum moss, peat moss, and leaf litter help them to thrive. Also, add plant matter and decaying wood for added nutrition. This will allow them to thrive and reproduce faster. By maintaining their habitat, you can keep your isopods active.