Lava Isopods
Porcellio scaber "Lava"
Fiery orange Porcellio scaber morph with molten colouration.
Quick facts
- Genus
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Temperature
- 18–25°C
- Humidity
- Moderate moist/dry gradient (50–65%)
- Adult size
- ~17 mm
- Origin
- Selectively bred (P. scaber)
- Temperament
- Active
About this species
Lava Isopods are a vivid orange morph of Porcellio scaber. They are hardy, fast-growing, and add a pop of molten colour to any enclosure. Like other scaber morphs they appreciate a protein source and a calcium supplement to keep colours bright.
- Size:
- ~17 mm
- Enclosure:
- A plastic storage bin or glass terrarium with good airflow and a dry side.
- Diet:
- Leaf litter and decaying wood, vegetables, and protein like fish flakes. Keep cuttlebone or limestone in the tub. Porcellio eat more protein and calcium than most isopods.
- Temperature Range:
- Maintain temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. They are tolerant but dislike extremes.
- Reproduction:
- Prolific, fast breeders with large broods once established.
- Substrate:
- Coconut coir, peat moss, or topsoil with leaf litter. Keep one side lightly moist and one side dry.
- Humidity:
- Maintain a moderate, semi-arid environment with a damp corner. Water one side of the enclosure to establish a moisture gradient.
