Lava isopods: how to look after this amazing and robust species?

A fascinating and strong species, lava isopods would be a great addition to your terrarium or bioactive arrangement. Both novices and expert keepers will find these isopods ideal since they are not only visually appealing but also rather easy to care for thanks to their vivid colors and unusual look. To give your lava isopods the finest care so they may flourish in their habitat.

Know Lava Isopods

  • Part of the more general isopod family, lava isopods—scientifically known as Porcellio scaber—are woodlice. These animals get their “lava” appellation from their tough, segmented exoskeletons, which frequently show colors of deep orange, brown, and black.
  • In bioactive systems, they are absolutely important since they break down organic matter, thereby supporting the general condition of the ecosystem. Additionally, a great natural and sustainable approach to introduce live food for other species, including amphibians and reptiles, is lava isopods.

Sheltering Your Lava Isopods

are isopods dangerous

  • Regarding their habitat needs, lava isopods are not especially demanding. They will be content in a well-kept terrarium with enough moisture and airflow. As isopods are naturally escape artists, use a tank with a safe lid. For a small colony of lava isopods, a 10-gallon tank is ideal; nevertheless, bigger areas will give more space for development.
  • Whether coconut coir, peat moss, or a combination of organic soil, make sure the tank’s substrate lets moisture stay in place. Lava isopods want a rather damp habitat; hence, wet the substrate often to keep the humidity between 60 and 80%.

Temperature and Light

Lava Isopods live best between 65 and 75°F (18 and 24°C). Make sure your tank is kept in a steady temperature range since erratic changes harm the isopods. Though they require little light, a low-wattage bulb or indirect natural light helps to replicate day and night cycles.

Providing lava isopods

Lava isopods are detritivores—that is, they eat decomposing organic stuff. You might provide them a range of food choices, including fruit, veggies, and decaying leaves. Giving them a mix of meals high in calcium, including crushed eggshells or cuttlefish bone, will also help to guarantee that their shells stay strong and healthy.

Care and Wellness

Lava is Although they are low-maintenance overall, isopods still require consistent care if they are to flourish. Eliminating any uneatable food or waste will help to keep the tank clean since it can build fast. Change the humidity and airflow if you observe any extra moisture or mold to preserve a good equilibrium.

Maintaining lava isopods is an easy and fulfilling endeavor. You’ll love seeing these amazing animals flourish in your terrarium with the right surroundings, food, and upkeep. Starting your first bioactive arrangement or just adding a new species to your collection, Lava Isopods are a sturdy and strikingly beautiful species that will accentuate your house both practically and aesthetically.