10-12 Count per Culture

The Porcellio Incanus Baeticensis 'Violet' Isopod, often simply called the Violet Isopod, is a captivating species prized for its unique coloration and relatively easy care. Here's a comprehensive guide:

Appearance:

• Size: They are a medium-sized isopod, reaching about 1.5cm in length.

• Color: Their most striking feature is their vibrant violet coloration, which can vary in intensity depending on age and environmental factors.

• Body: Like other isopods, they have a segmented body with seven pairs of legs and two antennae.

Habitat and Care:

• Enclosure: A plastic or glass container with good ventilation is suitable. The size depends on the population, but ensure ample space as they are active.

• Substrate: A mix of coconut coir, sphagnum moss, and leaf litter provides a comfortable environment. Add some decaying wood for them to feed on.

• Humidity: They prefer a slightly drier environment compared to some other isopods. Keep one side of the enclosure moist and the other dry.

• Temperature: Room temperature is generally sufficient, but avoid extreme heat or cold.

• Hiding Spots: Provide cork bark, rocks, or other decorations to create hiding spots.

Diet:

• Detritivores: They primarily feed on decaying organic matter like leaf litter and wood.

• Supplementation: You can supplement their diet with occasional feedings of vegetables, fruits, and protein sources like dried shrimp or fish flakes.

Benefits in Bioactive Setups:

• Clean-up Crew: They are a great addition to bioactive terrariums, acting as a "clean-up crew" by consuming waste and decaying matter.

• Soil Aeration: Their burrowing helps aerate the soil.

Breeding:

• Relatively Easy: They are relatively easy to breed in captivity with proper conditions.  

Interesting Facts:

• Active Isopods: They are known for being quite active, especially at night.

• Social Creatures: They prefer to live in groups.

• Unique Coloration: Their violet hue is unique among isopods, making them a sought-after species.