Oniscus asellus is a European isopod that seeks out damp hiding places under wood and leaves. A relatively cool, consistently moist enclosure suits it better than a warm, dry one.
Oniscus asellus – An Overview of the Woodlouse
| Origin | Western and Northern Europe |
| Temperature | 17-23 °C |
| Size | up to 2.5 cm, somewhat dependent on location |
| Substrate | Nutrient-rich soil with decomposed leaves and decayed hardwood |
| Humidity | Moist hiding places and a less moist alternate location |
The temperature figures are approximate values based on previous experience. Measure the temperature at the location of the box. Direct sunlight and an uncontrolled heat source can quickly cause the container to overheat.
The product card shows you the variety available and its current availability.
Oniscus asellus “woodlouse”
Very easy to breed, therefore also suitable as a food animal.
Out of stock
Oniscus asellus – Keeping Woodlice: Housing and Environment
Choose an escape-proof box with securely covered ventilation openings. Larger species and growing groups require more floor space. Fill the enclosure with several centimeters of nutrient-rich soil and cover it with decomposed leaves. Flat pieces of bark provide hiding places. Pure coconut fiber is not a sufficient food source.
Keep the substrate under the hiding spots consistently slightly moist. However, the animals still need air circulation and a less damp alternative spot. Check the ground under the leaves with your finger: A dry surface doesn’t tell you much about how much moisture is present underneath.
Food for Oniscus asellus – House Crickets
Leaves and white-rotten hardwood should always be kept in the box. They serve as both food and shelter. You can collect clean, suitable leaves yourself; if you don’t have a safe place to collect them, pre-prepared leaf litter is a practical alternative.
Fodder leaves
Staple food for many invertebrates.
A source of calcium supplements their diet. Cuttlefish powder can be offered sparingly in an easily accessible spot. Small portions of earthworm food are a supplement, not a substitute for leaves and wood. Check for leftovers the next day and remove any perishable items promptly.
Isopod food
Perfectly complementary Isopod food in a resealable zip bag!
Behavior and Offspring
Several animals can often be found under a flat piece of bark. These hiding places should not be allowed to dry out. This species is particularly well-suited for observation on the ground and less so for long-term display in an open area.
Breeding has been relatively successful for us. Young animals can easily go unnoticed among the leaves and soil. When it comes to color variants, rely on the actual assortment currently available, not on previous breeding announcements.
Check the food and humidity levels regularly without rearranging the entire setup. If you find mold, first remove the affected food dish and check the amount of food and the ventilation. A complete bedding change is usually unnecessary for a group that is otherwise stable.
Discover More Isopods
Here you’ll find a selection from our store. Before purchasing, make sure the specific species’ needs are compatible with your terrarium.
Still unsure? Feel free to ask us your question in the comments section below the article.
