Caring for Porcellio laevis “Black”

Porcellio laevis “Black” is a dark color variant of a large, active Isopod. It’s perfect for its own observation box, where you can keep a close eye on feeding areas and new offspring.

Porcellio laevis “Black” at a Glance

Form	Color form from the breeding program
Temperature	18–26 °C
Size	up to 2.3 cm
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.

Caring for Porcellio laevis “Black”: 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 part of the substrate slightly moist under the leaves or moss, and let the other side remain drier. Water specifically in the moist corner. This allows the Isopods to choose where they want to stay. Permanently wet soil and stagnant air are not suitable for this type of care.

Food for Porcellio laevis “Black”

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.

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.

Behavior and Offspring

The dark coloration provides a striking contrast to light-colored foliage and decaying wood. This has also led to the development of breeding lines with different markings in our program. However, a dark color alone does not prove a specific origin or an unaltered wild form.

The animals can reproduce even before they reach their maximum size. Make sure to provide enough space and keep different color lines separate if you want to preserve specific traits.

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.