Porcellio dilatatus ‘Rust’ Isopods

Porcellio dilatatus ‘Rust’ isopods

Origin

• Native to Western Europe

Environmental Preferences

• Temperature Range: 59–79°F (15–26°C)
• Humidity Preference: Medium (50–70%)

Physical Characteristics

• Average Adult Size: 1.8 cm (~0.7")
• Rust morph displays warm orange-brown tones with a large, wide-body
• Known for dramatic “playing dead” behavior and deep-burrowing habits

Diet

• Soft or rotting wood
• Leaf litter and decaying plant matter
• Calcium sources (e.g., cuttlebone, eggshell, PangeaCal Calcium)
• Protein (e.g., freeze-dried shrimp, minnows, fish pellets, dried insects)
• Commercial insect food (e.g., Pangea Roach & Cricket Food)
• Vegetables (e.g., carrots, zucchini, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, cucumber)
• Fruits (e.g., bananas, apples, watermelon, mango)

Description

Porcellio dilatatus “Rust” is the orange-brown morph of the Giant Canyon isopod, prized for its large size, relentless burrowing, and striking coloration. These isopods build complex subterranean tunnel networks that hide large portions of the colony. Because their exoskeleton is a bit softer than some other Porcellio, they also serve well as feeder isopods. They’re highly prolific, drought-tolerant, and adaptable across arid, semi-arid, and temperate setups, making them excellent clean-up crew candidates or pet colonies!

Master Culture

For successfully setting up a master culture setup of isopods we recommend using 6 qt - 32 qt plastic shoebox tubs. Locking tubs are optional but provide added security. Creating a series of small holes on alternating sides of the container will help to achieve healthy flow and reduce mold. Adding 1-3 inches (more for burrowing species) of pre-soaked Pangea ABG Substrate will provide a suitable substrate. Adding Pangea Sphagnum Moss, Pangea Leaf Litter Decor (the more the better), and pieces of wood or cork bark will help provide multiple layers for isopods to inhabit and feel safe. Mist culture as needed.

*Co-habitation amongst separate species of Isopod is not recommended.

*This animal can only be shipped to the US Contiguous, except LA, OR, and FL because of state regulations.