Isopod Care Guide
"Most" isopods tend to have similar requirements so I am going to group them all together for this guide. I will list individual species care in the "Species specific" section at the bottom of the page. (In Progress)
Housing
Isopods require a spacious and secure enclosure to thrive, such as a terrarium or a plastic container with a well-fitting lid. A shoe box sized enclosure, or slightly smaller will be good for a starter colony of 8-12 - Upgrading as the colony grows.
The enclosure should mimic their natural environment with a substrate composed of Organic soil, sphagnum moss, and leaf litter, which helps retain moisture and provides areas for burrowing (Coco Coir can be used, but is not recommended). Botanicals such as Coco Crowns, Locus pods, Gumball pods all add great additions to any isopod species enclosure. Adding hiding spots like cork bark, wood pieces, moss, etc., is essential to support natural behaviors such as molting, breeding, and exploring.
Adding a drainage layer is also a great option, but not necessary for success. Drainage layers allows you to add more water to your enclosures without saturating your substrate - increasing air & substrate humidity. Using clay balls, gravel, or tiny pebbles, create a 1"~ layer, top it with a fine mesh, making sure to cover tiny gaps that isopods can fit through. Then, add your substrate on top of the mesh.
Diet
They are detritivores, primarily feeding on decaying organic matter. A base diet of leaf litter, such as oak or beech leaves, provides essential nutrition. To ensure a well-rounded diet, supplement with fruits / vegetables like carrots, apples, Cucumber etc, and protein sources such as fish flakes, shrimp pellets, freeze-dried minnows, bee pollen, etc. Feeding can be done once a week, or when you feel necessary. Calcium sources, such as cuttlebone or crushed eggshells, are also important for their exoskeleton development. Be sure to remove uneaten food regularly to maintain a clean environment and prevent mold outbreaks and pests - more on this later.
Temperature and Humidity
Maintaining proper temperature and humidity levels is critical for the health of isopods. They thrive in a temperature range of 70°F to 84°F (21°C to 29°C) and require a humidity levels between 50% to 90%, species dependent. Tropical species typically prefer humidity consistently above 80%, whereas temperate species are more tolerant of drier conditions. Med-High ventilation is also required for most isopod species. Regular misting helps maintain the enclosure’s humidity. Adding leaf litter is important as it helps to trap in moisture and creates tiny micro-climates that your isopods can travel around from. Sphagnum moss is also a great option - In all my enclosures, I have one side/corner comprised of 100% Sphagnum moss to give them an area that is always super moist, where they can go to molt. Done correctly, you can typically go 5-7 days without watering the enclosure.
If you decide to go with a heat mat, be sure to mount it to the side of the enclose and not the bottom as this prevents your isopods from getting too hot and not being able to move away from the heat.
Breeding and Life Cycle
Gestation time in isopods are greatly varied. Some produce super quickly, while other take a long time. See "Species Specific" section for more on each species. Providing ample hiding spots and maintaining optimal humidity and temperature levels encourages breeding success.
Mold / Pest prevention + Thing to know
When it comes to Mold and Pest issues it mainly comes down to a few factors.
How much food are you leaving in the enclosure?
If you're leaving a large amount of uneaten food in the enclosure and don't remove it, it will eventually mold and start to travel around. Uneaten food will also attract pests like fruit flies & mites which can cause issues if left untouched. Adding springtails to your enclosures is a great option at combating mold and outcompeting mites.
How much ventilation does the enclosure have?
If you're enclosures don't have sufficient ventilation / airflow, you will eventually have issues with mold. Mold and mycelium thrive in low vent, high humidity environments. These dank conditions tend to lead to Mites and fruit fly blooms. Adding new botanicals and leaves in a stuffy enclosure will usually end in mold, especially if they are not sterilized beforehand.
If you're experiencing recurring mold outbreaks even after substrate changes, it is likely due to ventilation.
Is your substrate overly wet/saturated?
If the substrate in the enclosure is too wet it can greatly improve the chances you're going to deal with mold or mycelium of some kind. Your enclosure should not have stagnant water at the bottom unless you have a drainage layer.
If your enclosure is overly moldy and beyond the brink of saving, or if you have a overpopulation of mites, it is important to do a substrate change and sterilize anything you plan on bringing over to the new setup.
Sterilizing botanicals, substrates etc.
Proper sterilization of enclosure materials like botanicals, substrate, and decorations is essential to prevent pests, mold, or harmful bacteria from affecting your isopods, especially if they were taken straight from the outdoors.
Baking Method (For Wood, Leaves, and Botanicals)
-
How-To:
- Preheat your oven to 200–250°F (93–121°C).
- Place the items on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 20–30 minutes, checking periodically to avoid burning.
- Allow the materials to cool completely before adding them to the enclosure.
Boiling Method (For Leaves, Botanicals, and Small Wood Pieces)
- Purpose: Removes contaminants and softens materials for easier use.
-
How-To:
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
- Submerge the items fully and boil for 10–15 minutes.
- Drain and allow the materials to dry completely before use.
Freezing Method (For Organic Materials)
- Purpose: Kills pests like mites and eggs without altering the material's structure and removing potential nutrients.
-
How-To:
- Place the items in a sealed plastic bag.
- Store them in a freezer at minimum 0°F (-18°C) for 48–72 hours.
- Thaw and dry thoroughly before use.
Vinegar Rinse (For Decorations and Hard Surfaces)
- Purpose: Disinfects hard surfaces and decorations like stones, driftwood, or artificial items.
-
How-To:
- Prepare a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 10 parts water.
- Soak the items for 10–15 minutes.
- Scrub gently with a clean brush to remove residue.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water multiple times to remove all traces of vinegar.
- Let the items air dry completely.
Species Specific
ARMADILLIDIUM
Armadillidium klugii "Dubrovnik"
Knowledge Level: Beginner
Preferred Temperatures: They thrive at 70–78°F (21–26°C) but can tolerate a slightly wider range. Maintaining consistent temperatures promotes activity and reproduction.
Substrate Humidity: They prefer moderate humidity, around 60–75%. Ensure a moist but not overly damp substrate, with one end of the enclosure kept drier to allow them to regulate their moisture needs. Good ventilation is crucial to prevent stagnant conditions.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is moderate. Females produce steady broods under stable conditions, and colonies grow gradually over time.
Personal Notes: N/A
Armadillidium nasatum "Peach"
Knowledge Level: Beginner
Preferred Temperatures: They thrive in a range of 68–75°F (20–24°C) but can tolerate slightly warmer or cooler conditions. Stable temperatures within this range promote better activity and reproduction.
Substrate Humidity: This species prefers moderate humidity, around 60–75%. Maintain a slightly moist substrate but include a drier section in the enclosure to allow them to self-regulate.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is moderate to fast, with females producing broods regularly under optimal conditions. Colonies can grow quickly, making them a rewarding species for breeders.
Personal Notes: Despite their elegant look, they are hardy and active, often seen foraging or exploring their environment. Providing hiding spots like cork bark and leaf litter helps them feel secure.
Armadillidium vulgare "Magic Potion"
Knowledge Level: Beginner
Preferred Temperatures: They thrive at 70–78°F (21–26°C) but can tolerate a broader range. Keeping temperatures stable within this range encourages activity and reproduction.
Substrate Humidity: This species prefers moderate to high humidity, around 65–80%. The substrate should remain slightly moist, with one area of the enclosure kept drier to allow for self-regulation. Proper ventilation is essential to prevent excess moisture or mold.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is moderate to fast, with females producing broods regularly under optimal conditions. Colonies can grow quickly, making them a rewarding species for breeders.
Personal Notes: JAPANESE LINE Armadillidium vulgare "Magic Potion" is a favorite among collectors due to its striking yellow and white coloration with unique, mottled patterns. These isopods are active, social, and often seen exploring or foraging during the day.
Armadillidium vulgare "Punta Cana Tangerine"
Knowledge Level: Beginner
Preferred Temperatures: They thrive at 70–78°F (21–26°C) but can tolerate a broader range. Keeping temperatures stable within this range encourages activity and reproduction.
Substrate Humidity: This species prefers moderate to high humidity, around 65–80%. The substrate should remain slightly moist, with one area of the enclosure kept drier to allow for self-regulation. Proper ventilation is essential to prevent excess moisture or mold.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is moderate to fast, with females producing broods regularly under optimal conditions. Colonies can grow quickly, making them a rewarding species for breeders.
Personal Notes: N/A
Armadillidium espanyoli "Marbleized"
Knowledge Level: Beginner
Preferred Temperatures: They thrive in temperatures between 70–78°F (21–26°C), but they are resilient to slightly cooler or warmer conditions, making them versatile in various setups.
Substrate Humidity: This species prefers moderate humidity, around 60–75%. Keep the substrate slightly moist, ensuring a drier area for self-regulation.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is moderate, with females producing broods regularly under optimal conditions. Colonies can grow quickly, making them a rewarding species for breeders.
Personal Notes: N/A
Armadillidium gestroi
Knowledge Level: Beginner
Preferred Temperatures: They thrive at 70–80°F (21–27°C). Consistent temperatures within this range encourage activity and reproduction, though they can tolerate slight fluctuations.
Substrate Humidity: This species prefers moderate humidity, around 60–75%. Keep the substrate slightly moist, ensuring a drier area for self-regulation.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is moderate, with females producing broods regularly under optimal conditions. Colonies can grow quickly, making them a rewarding species for breeders.
Personal Notes: They are hardy, active, and easy to care for, making them an ideal species for beginners and experienced keepers alike. Providing hiding spots like cork bark, leaf litter, and moss enriches their environment and supports natural behaviors.
Armadillidium maculatum "Yellow Zebra"
Knowledge Level: Beginner
Preferred Temperatures: They thrive at 70–80°F (21–27°C). Consistent temperatures within this range encourage activity and reproduction, though they can tolerate slight fluctuations.
Substrate Humidity: This species prefers moderate humidity, around 60–75%. Keep the substrate slightly moist, ensuring a drier area for self-regulation.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is moderate, with females producing broods regularly under optimal conditions. Colonies can grow quickly, making them a rewarding species for breeders.
Personal Notes: They are hardy, active, and easy to care for, making them an ideal species for beginners and experienced keepers alike. Providing hiding spots like cork bark, leaf litter, and moss enriches their environment and supports natural behaviors.
PORCELLIO
Porcellio laevis "Dairy Cow"
Knowledge Level: Beginner
Preferred Temperatures: They prefer temperatures between 70–82°F (21–28°C). While they can tolerate slightly cooler conditions, warmth promotes more activity and faster reproduction.
Substrate Humidity: This species thrives in moderate to high humidity, around 70–85%. Keep the substrate moist but not waterlogged, and provide a slightly drier area to allow for self-regulation. Good ventilation is essential to avoid stagnant air.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is fast, making them one of the most prolific isopod species. Colonies can grow quickly under optimal conditions, making them a great choice for breeding or feeder setups.
Personal Notes: One of the few Poster boy isopods species in the hobby - "Everyone's first isopods species".
Porcellio laevis "Orange"
Knowledge Level: Beginner
Preferred Temperatures: They prefer temperatures between 70–82°F (21–28°C). While they can tolerate slightly cooler conditions, warmth promotes more activity and faster reproduction.
Substrate Humidity: This species thrives in moderate to high humidity, around 70–85%. Keep the substrate moist but not waterlogged, and provide a slightly drier area to allow for self-regulation. Good ventilation is essential to avoid stagnant air.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is fast, making them one of the most prolific isopod species. Colonies can grow quickly under optimal conditions, making them a great choice for breeding or feeder setups.
Personal Notes: Another very popular "First Isopod Species". Super easy to cultures.
Porcellio scaber "Lava"
Knowledge Level: Beginner
Preferred Temperatures: They thrive in temperatures ranging from 68–78°F (20–26°C). While they can tolerate cooler conditions, keeping them in the warmer part of this range encourages more activity and reproduction.
Substrate Humidity: This species prefers moderate humidity, around 60–75%. Maintain a slightly moist substrate while providing a drier area for self-regulation. Proper ventilation is essential to prevent excess moisture buildup and mold.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is moderate to fast, with colonies growing steadily under optimal conditions. Their rapid reproductive rate makes them rewarding for breeders or hobbyists building a colony.
Personal Notes: One of my personal favorite Porcellio species. Stunning colouration and fairly easy to get going!
Porcellionides pruinosus "Power Blue"
Knowledge Level: Beginner
Preferred Temperatures: This species prefers temperatures between 70–85°F (21–29°C). Warmer temperatures encourage faster reproduction and activity, but they are tolerant of slight fluctuations.
Substrate Humidity: They thrive in moderate to high humidity, around 70–85%. Keep the substrate consistently moist, but ensure a small drier area for self-regulation. Adequate ventilation is necessary to prevent mold or stagnant air.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is very fast, making this species ideal for building colonies or using as feeders. Under optimal conditions, colonies expand rapidly.
Personal Notes: Often used in bioactive enclosures for their very fast reproduction speed and their slight lack of interest in protein sources.
Porcellionides pruinosus "Party Mix"
Knowledge Level: Beginner
Preferred Temperatures: This species prefers temperatures between 70–85°F (21–29°C). Warmer temperatures encourage faster reproduction and activity, but they are tolerant of slight fluctuations.
Substrate Humidity: They thrive in moderate to high humidity, around 70–85%. Keep the substrate consistently moist, but ensure a small drier area for self-regulation. Adequate ventilation is necessary to prevent mold or stagnant air.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is very fast, making this species ideal for building colonies or using as feeders. Under optimal conditions, colonies expand rapidly.
Personal Notes: Often used in bioactive enclosures for their very fast reproduction speed and their slight lack of interest in protein sources.
Porcellionides pruinosus "Orange cream"
Knowledge Level: Beginner
Preferred Temperatures: This species prefers temperatures between 70–85°F (21–29°C). Warmer temperatures encourage faster reproduction and activity, but they are tolerant of slight fluctuations.
Substrate Humidity: They thrive in moderate to high humidity, around 70–85%. Keep the substrate consistently moist, but ensure a small drier area for self-regulation. Adequate ventilation is necessary to prevent mold or stagnant air.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is very fast, making this species ideal for building colonies or using as feeders. Under optimal conditions, colonies expand rapidly.
Personal Notes: Often used in bioactive enclosures for their very fast reproduction speed and their slight lack of interest in protein sources.
Porcellionides pruinosus "White-out"
Knowledge Level: Beginner
Preferred Temperatures: This species prefers temperatures between 70–85°F (21–29°C). Warmer temperatures encourage faster reproduction and activity, but they are tolerant of slight fluctuations.
Substrate Humidity: They thrive in moderate to high humidity, around 70–85%. Keep the substrate consistently moist, but ensure a small drier area for self-regulation. Adequate ventilation is necessary to prevent mold or stagnant air.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is very fast, making this species ideal for building colonies or using as feeders. Under optimal conditions, colonies expand rapidly.
Personal Notes: Often used in bioactive enclosures for their very fast reproduction speed and their slight lack of interest in protein sources.
Porcellio expansus "Orange"
Knowledge Level: Experienced
Preferred Temperatures: They thrive at 72–82°F (22–28°C). Stable temperatures in the warmer range encourage activity and successful reproduction.
Substrate Humidity: This species prefers Low to moderate, around 50–70%. Ensure one side of the substrate remains moist but not soggy. Good ventilation is essential to prevent stagnant conditions.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is moderate, with females producing steady broods under suitable conditions. Colony growth is noticeable over time but not as rapid as smaller species like Porcellio scaber.
Personal Notes: SPANISH SPECIES - Prefers much drier condition than most other species. Always have one side moist, but majority of enclosure should be mostly or slightly damp.
Porcellio hoffmannseggi
Knowledge Level: Experienced
Preferred Temperatures: This species thrives at 72–85°F (22–29°C). Warmer temperatures encourage activity and reproduction, but they can tolerate cooler conditions briefly if the change is gradual.
Substrate Humidity: This species prefers Low to moderate, around 50–70%. Ensure one side of the substrate remains moist but not soggy. Good ventilation is essential to prevent stagnant conditions.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is slow to moderate, with females producing broods at a steady but slower rate compared to smaller Porcellio species.
Personal Notes: SPANISH SPECIES - Prefers much drier condition than most other species. Always have one side moist, but majority of enclosure should be mostly or slightly damp.
CUBARIS
Cubaris murina "Papaya"
Knowledge Level: Beginner
Preferred Temperatures: This species thrives in a temperature range of 72–80°F (22–27°C). While they tolerate slight fluctuations, maintaining consistent warmth supports activity and breeding.
Substrate Humidity: Moderate to high humidity, around 70–85%.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is moderate to fast. This species reproduces steadily under optimal conditions, making it a great option for a hobbyists looking to grow a colony quickly!
Personal Notes: Noticed that this species benefit from having periods of a bit drier conditions(Temporarily). Small, active isopod species
Cubaris murina "Little Sea"
Knowledge Level: Beginner
Preferred Temperatures: This species thrives in a temperature range of 72–80°F (22–27°C). While they tolerate slight fluctuations, maintaining consistent warmth supports activity and breeding.
Substrate Humidity: Moderate to high humidity, around 70–85%.
Reproduction Speed: Reproduction is moderate to fast. This species reproduces steadily under optimal conditions, making it a great option for a hobbyists looking to grow a colony quickly!
Personal Notes: Noticed that this species benefit from having periods of a bit drier conditions(Temporarily). Small, active isopod species
Cubaris sp. "Panda King"
Knowledge Level: Beginner -Average
Preferred Temperatures: This species thrives at 75–82°F (24–28°C). Warmer conditions promote activity and reproduction, but avoid temperature spikes or dips to ensure their health.
Substrate Humidity: They prefer high humidity, around 75–85%. The substrate should remain moist but not soggy. Include moisture-retaining elements like sphagnum moss and leaf litter while ensuring one slightly drier area for self-regulation.
Reproduction Speed: Moderate - Fast-ish
Personal Notes: N/A
Cubaris sp. "Black Panda"
Knowledge Level: Beginner -Average
Preferred Temperatures: This species thrives at 75–82°F (24–28°C). Warmer conditions promote activity and reproduction, but avoid temperature spikes or dips to ensure their health.
Substrate Humidity: They prefer high humidity, around 75–85%. The substrate should remain moist but not soggy. Include moisture-retaining elements like sphagnum moss and leaf litter while ensuring one slightly drier area for self-regulation.
Reproduction Speed: Moderate - Fast-ish
Personal Notes: Cubaris sp. "Black Panda" a cf. of Cubairs sp. "Panda King".
Cubaris sp. "Panda King - White"
Knowledge Level: Beginner -Average
Preferred Temperatures: This species thrives at 75–82°F (24–28°C). Warmer conditions promote activity and reproduction, but avoid temperature spikes or dips to ensure their health.
Substrate Humidity: They prefer high humidity, around 75–85%. The substrate should remain moist but not soggy. Include moisture-retaining elements like sphagnum moss and leaf litter while ensuring one slightly drier area for self-regulation.
Reproduction Speed: Moderate - Fast-ish
Personal Notes: Cubaris sp. "Panda King - White" a cf. of Cubairs sp. "Panda King".
Cubaris sp. "Panda king - Citrus”
Knowledge Level: Beginner -Average
Preferred Temperatures: This species thrives at 75–82°F (24–28°C). Warmer conditions promote activity and reproduction, but avoid temperature spikes or dips to ensure their health.
Substrate Humidity: They prefer high humidity, around 75–85%. The substrate should remain moist but not soggy. Include moisture-retaining elements like sphagnum moss and leaf litter while ensuring one slightly drier area for self-regulation.
Reproduction Speed: Moderate - Fast-ish
Personal Notes: Cubaris sp. "Panda King - Citrus" a cf. of Cubairs sp. "Panda King".
Nesodillo archangeli "Shiro Utsuri" (Not Cubaris)
Knowledge Level: Beginner -Average
Preferred Temperatures: This species thrives in temperatures between 72–80°F (22–27°C). They can tolerate slight fluctuations, but maintaining consistent warmth promotes activity and reproduction.
Substrate Humidity: Moderate to High humidity, around 70–85%.
Reproduction Speed: Moderate - Fast (Large broods ime).
Personal Notes: N/A
Cubaris sp. "Rubber Ducky"
Knowledge Level: Experienced
Preferred Temperatures: They prefer warm environments, ideally between 75–82°F (24–28°C). Consistent temperatures within this range are crucial for their activity, health, and reproduction.
Substrate Humidity: This species requires very High substrate humidity, around 85–90%, with minimal fluctuations. Ensure a damp substrate with plenty of moisture-retaining materials like sphagnum moss and leaf litter, while maintaining good ventilation to avoid mold growth.
Reproduction Speed: Slow-Moderate
Personal Notes: People tend to over complicate duckies. They are pretty straight forward - Make sure their enclosure has plenty of tiny micro climates for them to move around and find spots they like - they are shy and often hide during the day, so providing plenty of hiding spots such as cork bark and botanicals is essential. Calcium is important, so provide in the form of cuttlebone/egg shells. Limestone is Not required.
Cubaris Sp. "Cappuccino"
Knowledge Level: Experienced
Preferred Temperatures: 70-82F - (21-28C)
Substrate Humidity: This species prefers Moderate to high humidity, around 70–85%.
Reproduction Speed: Slow-Moderate - While not as fast as some species, they breed steadily under suitable conditions.
Personal Notes: Beautiful species! Make sure to offer plenty of hiding spots / microclimates. Providing plenty of leaf litter and bark flats is a great way to make these guys feel comfortable, while also trapping in humidity.
Cubaris Sp. “Red Tiger”
Knowledge Level: Experienced
Preferred Temperatures: This species thrives in temperatures between 70–78°F (21–26°C).
Substrate Humidity: high substrate humidity, around 75–85%, to thrive.
Reproduction Speed: Slow (Somewhat large brood size)
Personal Notes: I've personally have had this species for a while and have not been able to completely crack the code on their care. They reproduce fairly slowly for me. TBD.