Porcellio werneri (Greek Shield Isopod)

Porcellio werneri

(Greek Shield Isopod)

Porcellio werneri (the Greek Shield Isopod) This species is comically wide and flat, so much so that some have suggest calling it the pancake isopod! Similar to adaptations in other bugs like Lanxoblatta rudis, it is possible that this extreme morphology functions as a defense against predation.

Adult Size - Male (17 mm), Female (17 mm)

Climbing Ability - None

Flying Ability - None

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Enclosure

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

Range - 70 F to 80 F