Laureola spec. “Ivory Spiky”

Ivory Spiky Isopods – Rare and fascinating

Laureola spec. “Ivory Spiky” is one of the most elegant tropical Isopods in the terrarium hobby. Instead of strong contrasts, this species impresses above all with its light ivory coloration and the striking structure of the carapace.

The animals look particularly elegant on dark substrate or between damp moss and stand out clearly from many other tropical Isopods. At the same time, the slightly textured surface ensures that the animals look very striking, although the overall coloration remains rather discreet.

This creates an unusual look that immediately stands out in bioactive terrariums.

Bright colors and textured surface

With increasing age, the light coloration develops more and more, while adult animals show particularly even ivory and cream tones.

In addition, many animals have small highlighted structures on their backs, which makes the surface look particularly interesting. It is precisely this combination of bright coloration and “spiky” structure that makes this species so special.

Depending on the humidity and light, the animals sometimes appear almost pearly, which makes them look particularly elegant in the terrarium.

Quiet, but regularly active

Laureola spec. “Ivory Spiky” is mainly active at dusk and at night. However, especially after spraying or when fresh food is available, many animals become visible and move actively through the terrarium.

They then explore the foliage, sit under pieces of wood or rummage through the substrate for food. This makes the entire setup look much livelier and more natural.

Like many tropical Isopods, they also spend a lot of time in damp retreats, which is why a structurally rich interior is particularly important.

Terrarium size and set-up

A well-ventilated isopod box or a small tropical terrarium with sufficient floor space is suitable for keeping them. They work particularly well:

• BraPlast tins
• Isopod terrarium complete set
• Repto Terra Sky

The set-up should offer as many hiding places and different humidity zones as possible. The following have proved particularly successful:

• Fodder leaves
• white rotten wood
• Moss
• Cork pieces
• Lime granulate
• Pieces of bark

Natural and rather darker setups show off the bright coloration of the animals particularly well. At the same time, foliage and rotten wood are actively used as food.

Substrate and microclimate

For a stable setup, we recommend a mixture of:

• Forest humus
• white rotten wood
• Fodder leaves
• Lime granulate

This keeps the substrate loose and slightly moist at all times, while at the same time providing the animals with constant food and retreats.

A damp corner and a slightly drier corner have also proved successful, as this allows the animals to use different areas.

Climate and care

For successful keeping, you should adhere to the following values:

• Temperature: 22-25 °C
• Humidity: 75-90 %

The substrate should remain slightly moist at all times, but should not become wet. At the same time, good ventilation is important to keep the climate stable.

With a GLORIA fine sprayer the moisture can be distributed particularly finely and evenly.

Feeding

The animals feed mainly on organic material and therefore need leaves and rotten wood on a permanent basis. They also like to be eaten:

• Woodlouse food
• Vegetables
• Cuttlebone

A good calcium supply is particularly important so that the animals can build up their exoskeleton properly.

Offspring

Under stable conditions Laureola spec. “Ivory Spiky” reliable. The young initially hide deep in the foliage and substrate before becoming more active later on.

Well-established bioactive setups significantly promote breeding, as food and stable conditions are permanently available there.

Important points on posture

• High humidity is important
• Good ventilation is crucial
• Lots of foliage and wood required
• Structurally rich furnishings recommended
• Ideal for bioactive terrariums

Suitable accessories for your setup

We recommend a stable and natural setup:

• Fodder foliage – most important staple food
• White rotten wood – Food and hiding place at the same time
• Lime granules – supports the shell structure
• Forest humus – natural substrate
• cuttlebone – additional source of calcium
• GLORIA fine sprayer – Controlled humidity
• BraPlast tins – ideal for small tropical species

This creates a stable tropical setup while allowing the animals to behave naturally.

Conclusion

Laureola spec. “Ivory Spiky” is one of the most elegant tropical Isopods around. The light ivory coloration, the textured surface and the calm behaviour make this species a real highlight in the terrarium.

Anyone looking for exceptional premium Isopods with a noble appearance will enjoy this species.