The numbers
Enclosure
12 L+ tub
Diet
Leaf litter, high protein (fairly carnivorous) · Continuous; frequent protein
Temperature
20–26°C
Humidity
55–70% (drier, ventilated)
Identity
Order / Family
Isopoda
Origin
IUCN / CITES
Not evaluated; no CITES listing
Difficulty
Intermediate–Advanced
Commonality
Prized, pricier display species
Adult size
Up to ~3 cm
Lifespan
2–3 yrs
Growth rate
Slow
Activity & niche
Surface detritivore/opportunist
Temperament
Peaceful but predatory on weak tankmates
Venom / defense
Harmless to humans; does not roll
Enclosure and conditions
Temperature
20–26°C
Humidity
55–70% (drier, ventilated)
Min. enclosure
12 L+ tub
Substrate
Coco/soil + limestone + leaf litter + rotting wood
Hides / decor / water
Cork bark, leaf litter; drier with moist corner
Diet
Staple food
Leaf litter, high protein (fairly carnivorous)
Feeding frequency
Continuous; frequent protein
Supplements
Cuttlebone / calcium available
Behaviour and handling
Handling
Safe; harmless
Communal
Yes – but may prey on molting tankmates if underfed
Defense / stress signs
Hiding, cannibalism if protein-starved
Reproduction
Reproduction
Marsupium brooders; slow to build
Common health problems
Common health issues
SignsSensitive to over-wet setups
Red flags / quarantine
SignsQuarantine; ventilate well
Good to know
- One of the largest and most coveted Porcellio, with bold orange-tipped plates.
Others in this group
Common Pill Bug / Roly-Poly (morphs)Armadillidium vulgareLittle Sea IsopodCubaris murinaRubber Ducky IsopodCubaris sp. 'Rubber Ducky'Dairy Cow Isopod (P. laevis morphs)Porcellio laevisCommon Rough Woodlouse (many morphs)Porcellio scaberPowder Blue / Powder Orange IsopodPorcellionides pruinosusDwarf White IsopodTrichorhina tomentosaClown IsopodArmadillidium klugii