Porcellio ornatus (Ornate Isopod)

Porcellio ornatus

(Ornate Isopod)

"High Yellow" morph

The Ornate Isopod certainly lives up to its name, displaying an array of beautiful colors and patterns throughout its range. Among the naturally-occurring color forms are "Yellow", "Southern Yellow Dot", "Almerían White Skirt", and "Nord". They are an interesting shape, measuring almost as tall as they are wide. Unlike most isopods, which reach sexual maturity at only 1/3 of their complete size, these don't seem to reproduce until they're nearly fully grown. Porcellio ornatus is among the best beginner isopods for those looking to get their feet wet with the Giant Spanish Porcellio spp.

Adult Size - Male (27 mm), Female (27 mm)

Climbing Ability - None

Flying Ability - None

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Enclosure

P.ornatus are rather large and crowding sensitive, so their enclosure should have some space.

Ventilation level - High

Hides - Necessary

Barrier/Secure Lid - Not necessary

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Substrate

P.ornatus aren't picky about their substrate as long as it holds moisture well, isn't abrasive, and is deep enough to burrow in.

Type - Not picky

Moisture level - Dry w/ 1 moist corner

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Food

P.ornatus aren't picky about their food and can be fed an average isopod diet.

Type - Proteinaceous pet foods, dead hardwood leaves, vegetables

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Temperature

P.ornatus can be kept into the low 70s, but grows and breeds fastest at warmer temperatures

Range - 70 F to 80 F