Species profile and notes on cultivation
Porcellio expansus, isopod information
Origin: Spain
Scientific name: Porcellio expansus
Synonyms: N/A
Family: Porcellionidae
Common name: Giant Spanish Isopod; Dragon Isopod; Beetlejuice Isopod.
Porcellio expansus is an isopod species found on the cliffs of Spain and one of the Spanish giant isopods, reaching an impressive size. Porcellio expansus is one of the largest and most spectacular isopod species in captivity, reaching a total length of approx. 3,5 cm.
Porcellio expansus are resistant, with average husbandry difficulty and prolificacy. They are not so good as cleaners as other isopods.
Porcellio expansus, isopod care
Size: adults may reach a length of more than 50 mm in total! With their long antennae & uropods excluded, they may reach a length of approximately 32 mm. As with all isopods, the CB isopods might be smaller than that.
Activity: mostly night active.
Terrarium: keep only one corner moist with moss, pieces of tree bark or cork bark and also decaying leaves.. They require good air flow and adequate ventilation. It’s a social Porcellio species that when established, breeds well. Check out also our premium substrate and ultra premium substrate.
Temperature: 18 – 30°C
Humidity: 45 – 55%
Diet: fruits, veggies, greens, fish-food, forest moss, lichen, decaying leaves, limestone rock, mushrooms, molting of invertebrates and reptiles. And 2x times a week provide a source of protein. Be sure to check out our Protein mix foods. Also don’t forget a calcium source (calcium triple boost, cuttlefish bone, limestone & oyster seashell, limestone rock) to keep them healthy.
Difficulty: moderate.
Reproduction rate: moderately prolific.
Growth rate: slow to normal.
Lifespan: 2 to 2,5 years. Sexual maturity is reached after 3 to 4 months.
My notes on cultivation
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tags: Porcellio expansus, Spanish giant isopod, Porcellionidae, isopods for sale, isopoda, invertebrate, detritivore, pill bug, woodlice, roly poly, sow bug, crustaceans, care sheet, insects
Exuvium Isopods 