Periscyphis sp. “Hallaniyat Island” is unique among the isopods described here. Our strain originates from the Omani archipelago and is kept in significantly drier conditions than typical tropical soil-dwelling isopods.
Periscyphis sp. “Hallaniyat Island” at a Glance
| Origin | Hallaniyat Islands, Oman |
| Temperature | 24–27 °C as a guideline for keeping them |
| Size | approx. 1.7 cm |
| Substrate | Nutrient-rich soil with decomposed leaves and decayed hardwood |
| Humidity | Mostly dry, with one consistently damp area |
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.
Keeping Periscyphis sp. “Hallaniyat Island”: Enclosure and Climate
For this species, we used a soil mix with a higher mineral content, consisting of roughly equal parts soil and sand. Add leaves and decaying hardwood as food. Secure rock structures directly on the bottom of the container. Even with this drier setup, a small, moist hiding spot is still necessary.
Most of the surface tends to stay dry. However, one corner—under leaves or moss—must remain slightly moist at all times. Moisten this hiding spot specifically, rather than spraying the entire container. Good ventilation prevents moist air from becoming trapped.
Food for Periscyphis sp. “Hallaniyat Island”
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
These animals are primarily active at night and use crevices between rocks. Heavy rocks must be securely placed on the bottom of the container before adding substrate. This prevents burrowing animals from undermining them.
Growth and reproduction were slow in our case. This approach is better suited to people who closely observe small changes and don’t expect offspring to appear quickly.
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.
