Aussie Orange Isopods (Porcellio scaber)

• Appearance: Medium-sized (up to 20 mm long) with a rough, textured exoskeleton and a bright orange-to-tangerine color (sometimes with white skirting or subtle shading). They do not roll into a tight ball. 
• Behavior: Prolific, hardy, and active during the day, making them great for beginners. 
• Role: Act as detritivores that break down decaying leaf litter, wood, animal waste, and leftover food to regulate moisture and prevent mold. 

Care Requirements

• Enclosure: A simple plastic tub with ventilation holes, featuring a deep substrate mix (10 cm+ of flake soil, coco coir, and decomposing leaf litter).
• Moisture Gradient: Keep one side damp (using moss like sphagnum) and leave the opposite side mostly dry so they can regulate their own hydration. 
• Temperature: Room temperature (roughly 18°C–26°C), avoiding extreme highs or lows. 
• Diet: Decaying leaves, rotting wood, vegetable scraps (carrots, squash), fish flakes, and calcium sources like eggshell powder or cuttlebone. 
  
  

   

  The Orange Isopod ( Porcellio scaber “Orange”) is a bright and hardy colour morph of the common rough woodlouse. Bred in captivity for its vivid orange tones, this morph combines the durability and strong breeding habits of the species with bold, eye-catching colour.

  Scientific Classification Scientific name: Porcellio scaber

  Family: Porcellionidae

  Common name: Orange Isopod

   

  Appearance Medium-sized, elongated body Distinct rough, textured exoskeleton Bright orange to tangerine coloration, sometimes with subtle darker shading Dark eyes that contrast against the orange body Does not roll into a tight ball The intensity of colour can vary between individuals, with some appearing pale peach and others a deep, vibrant orange. Natural Background The species Porcellio scaber originates from Europe but is now widespread across the world, commonly found in: Gardens Woodland leaf litter Compost heaps Beneath logs and stones The Orange morph is a selectively bred captive variety and is not typically seen in wild populations. Behaviour Active and resilient, Porcellio scaber are efficient detritivores that feed on: Decaying leaves Rotting wood Vegetable scraps Organic debris They are quick-moving and rely on speed and hiding rather than conglobation for protection. Invertebrate Keeping Orange Porcellio scaber are popular among hobbyists because they are: Hardy and adaptable Fast breeding Suitable for bioactive enclosures For optimal care, provide: A moisture gradient (humid and drier areas) Abundant leaf litter and cork bark Good airflow A reliable calcium source for healthy moulting With proper conditions, they establish colourful, thriving colonies that add both function and visual appeal to naturalistic terrarium setups.