If you like collecting unusual animals, keeping an isopod collection alive can be fun. Since these animals have hard shells and interesting habits, they are popular among fans. What makes an isopod colony work is picking the right species and learning what they need. If you want to grow an Isopods collection that lasts for years, this book has helpful advice.
Picking the Right Collection of Species
A very important part of starting an isopod collection is picking the right species. Care for some species is easier than others, so it is best to start with easy breeds for beginners. Plants like Porcellio scaber and Armadillidiidae are popular choices for new owners because they are strong and flexible. Additionally, these isopods are very easy to handle, and their beautiful range of colours makes them a great addition to any collection.
More experienced individuals may enjoy collecting species like the Giant Canyon Isopod or the Polydesmus species, which need a little more care but have unique traits. When picking your isopod species, you should always think about things like size, temperature tolerance, and humidity levels.
How to Make the Perfect Habitat
You must provide the right environment for the species you have chosen once you have made your choice. Unfortunately, isopods need a damp, dark place to live because they are susceptible to light and heat. Well-ventilated enclosures, like glass or plastic tanks, are best. You can keep the right humidity level by using a substrate made of coconut fibre, leaf litter, or a mix of the two. This substrate can also provide food for your isopods.
Advice on Grooming and Feeding
Decomposers, like isopods, eat dead or rotting plants and animals. All the nutrition they need will come from trimmings from fruits and vegetables and the odd piece of bark or wood. Getting rid of food that hasn’t been eaten will stop mould from growing and keep the surroundings healthy. Vermin should be checked for regularly on the ground, and the humidity and temperature should stay the same.
Being patient and dedicated are needed to build a good isopod collection, but the benefits are worth it. Picking the right type and keeping the right conditions for them will help your isopods do well and even breed. You can take good care of your isopod collection whether you are new to collecting or have been doing it for a while. When you are looking to add to your collection, make sure you only buy Isopods from reputable stores to make sure the new animals will be healthy and thrive in your environment.