Dairy Cow Isopod (Porcellio laevis) Care Guide

Overview

The Dairy Cow Isopod (Porcellio laevis), named for its black-and-white spotted pattern, is a popular isopod species for bioactive terrariums. These isopods are larger, fast-moving, and very active, making them both useful clean-up crew members and fun to watch. They are hardy, easy to care for, and breed readily in captivity.

• Scientific Name: Porcellio laevis

• Common Name: Dairy Cow Isopod

• Origin: Europe, now established worldwide in captivity

• Adult Size: ~1.5–2 cm

• Lifespan: 1–2 years (breeds continuously in captivity)

• Temperament: Social, colony-dwelling

Enclosure Requirements

• Container Size: A small plastic bin, terrarium, or glass enclosure with a secure lid works well. Ventilation is important—use fine mesh or drill small holes for airflow.

• Substrate: 2–4 inches of a moist, bioactive mix (coconut fiber, organic soil, and leaf litter). Add sphagnum moss for extra moisture retention.

• Hides & Decor: Provide cork bark, pieces of wood, and leaf litter for cover. Dairy Cow isopods enjoy hiding in groups under surfaces.

• Temperature: 70–80°F (21–27°C) is ideal. Room temperature is usually fine.

• Humidity: Maintain moderate humidity (60–70%) by misting lightly 2–3 times a week. Always keep one side of the enclosure moist and the other side drier so they can self-regulate.

Diet

Dairy Cow Isopods are detritivores, feeding on decaying matter and supplemental foods.

• Staple Foods: Decaying leaves, rotting wood, and bioactive substrate.

• Supplemental Foods: Vegetables (carrot, zucchini, squash), fish flakes, or reptile pellets.

• Calcium Source: Provide cuttlebone, crushed eggshells, or calcium powder to support healthy exoskeleton growth.

Behavior & Breeding

• Very active and easy to observe compared to some smaller isopods.

• Breed quickly in captivity, forming large colonies.

• Peaceful and communal, thriving in groups.

Benefits in Terrariums

Dairy Cow Isopods are a popular choice for bioactive reptile and amphibian enclosures because they:

• Act as a clean-up crew: They consume leftover food, shed skin, feces, and decaying plant matter, reducing waste and odor.

• Enrich the soil: Their constant burrowing and feeding aerate the substrate and recycle nutrients, supporting healthy plant growth.

• Provide supplemental food: In some enclosures, small reptiles, amphibians, or invertebrates may eat them as a natural food source.

• Help maintain balance: By breaking down waste and organic matter, they support the bioactive ecosystem and reduce the need for frequent cleaning.

✅ Summary:
The Dairy Cow Isopod (Porcellio laevis) is a hardy, fast-breeding species perfect for bioactive terrariums. Easy to care for and beneficial as a clean-up crew, they improve soil health, recycle nutrients, and keep enclosures clean while adding natural activity to your setup.