Porcellio scaber “Moonstone”

Porcellio scaber “Moonstone” – Robust Isopod with a special look

Porcellio scaber “Moonstone” is a particularly striking color form of the well-known isopod species Porcellio scaber. This species originally comes from Europe, but has now spread worldwide. It is also one of the most robust and adaptable Isopods in the terrarium hobby.

The color form “Moonstone” has a light, silvery to beige colored base colorwhich clearly distinguishes it from the wild-colored form. In addition, many animals show a marbled patternwhich gives each animal an individual pattern. This makes a group of these Isopods look particularly varied in the terrarium.

With a size of about 1.5 to 2 cm belongs to Porcellio scaber “Moonstone” is one of the medium-sized isopod species. At the same time, the animals are very active and can therefore often be observed in the terrarium. In contrast to woodlice, these Isopods are able to do not curl up into a ballbut they quickly take refuge under leaves or bark.

Suitable for keeping isopods are isopod terrarium as well as a well ventilated plastic box. Just one container from about 5 liters volume is sufficient for a small group. At the same time, however, the animals benefit from larger tanks, as they can spread out better there.

The recommended substrate is nutrient-rich substrateconsisting of forest humus, leaves and white rotten wood, for example. In addition, a thick Foliage layer lie on the substrate. On the one hand it serves as food and on the other hand it offers many hiding places.

The terrarium should be partly moist and partly dry be held. This allows the animals to choose their preferred location themselves. At the same time, this method prevents the entire substrate from becoming too wet. Temperatures between 20 and 26 °C are ideal for keeping them.

Like many other Isopods, they also need Porcellio scaber “Moonstone” a source of calcium. Therefore, always cuttlefish or crushed eggshell can be offered.

The main food is rotten leaves and white rotten woodbut the animals also like to eat vegetables vegetables, flowers or isopod food to. This allows the diet to be very varied.

Due to their robust naturetheir interesting pattern and their simple husbandry is suitable for Porcellio scaber “Moonstone” excellent for beginners. At the same time, it is also an exciting color variant for experienced isopod keepers, which visually enriches every terrarium.