Powder Blue
20 Count per Culture
The Powder Blue Isopod (Porcellionides pruinosus) is a popular choice among isopod enthusiasts, and for good reason! They're relatively easy to care for and have a lovely, subtle blue coloration. Here's a breakdown of their key characteristics:
Appearance:
Size: They are a small to medium-sized isopod, reaching about 1 centimeter (0.4 inches) in length.
Coloration: As their name suggests, they have a light blue to bluish-gray coloration. This can vary slightly between individuals, with some having a more pronounced blue hue than others. They often have a slightly mottled or speckled pattern.
Shape: They have an oval-shaped, segmented body, typical of Porcellionides isopods.
Habitat and Care:
Origin: Porcellionides pruinosus is a widespread species, found in many parts of the world. The "Powder Blue" variety is a naturally occurring color morph.
Environment: They prefer warm, humid environments with good ventilation.
Temperature: They thrive in temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C).
Humidity: High humidity is essential for their well-being, ideally around 60-80%.
Substrate: A mix of damp soil, leaf litter, decaying wood, and sphagnum moss provides an ideal substrate.
Enclosure: A well-ventilated container with plenty of hiding places (cork bark, leaf litter, etc.) is necessary.
Other Characteristics:
Temperament: They are generally peaceful and easy to handle, though they prefer to stay hidden.
Breeding: They breed readily in captivity, with females carrying the eggs in a brood pouch until they hatch.
Lifespan: They can live for several years with proper care.
Bioactive Clean-up Crew: They are a popular choice for bioactive terrariums, where they help break down organic waste and contribute to a healthy ecosystem.
Important Notes:
Humidity: Maintaining proper humidity is crucial for their health. Insufficient humidity can lead to molting problems and even death.
Ventilation: While they need high humidity, they also require good ventilation to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Diet: They are detritivores, feeding on decaying organic matter, leaf litter, and wood.
They also benefit from supplemental feeding with fruits, vegetables, and protein sources like fish flakes or dried shrimp.