Porcellio Leavis "Dairy Cow"

Product Description

Porcellio laevis Is one of the most popular and hardy species in the isopod hobby. Known for its smooth, shiny exoskeleton and impressive size, this species is a "powerhouse" cleaner.

Unlike the smaller, "dusted" species, P. laevis grows significantly larger and is much more aggressive when it comes to feeding. They are widely recognized as the best clean-up crew for large reptiles, as they can quickly process heavy waste and large amounts of leaf litter. Their bold nature means they don't spend all day hiding; you will frequently see them exploring the enclosure.

Perfect for bioactive terrariums with larger inhabitants, composting, and beginners looking for a fast-growing, large, and visible species.

Species Information

• Species: Porcellio laevis "Dairy Cow"
• Origin: Europe
• Size: ~2.0–2.5 cm (adult)
• Activity Level: Very High / Bold
• Rarity: Common / High Demand

Care Requirements

• Difficulty: Very Easy
• Humidity: Medium. They prefer a moisture gradient with one damp side and a drier side for better ventilation.
• Temperature: 18–26°C / 64–79°F (Highly resilient to fluctuations)
• Ventilation: High (Essential for preventing mold and keeping them active)
• Substrate: Rich organic soil with plenty of leaf litter and decaying wood.

Must Provide:

• Large amounts of leaf litter (they eat through it quickly!)
• Bark hides (cork or oak)
• Substantial protein sources
• Consistent calcium source

Diet

Porcellio laevis is famous for its "opportunistic" appetite:

• The Basics: Leaf litter and rotting wood.
• High Protein: They crave more protein than other species. Fish flakes, dried shrimp, or even supplemental reptile food.
• Fresh Food: Vegetables like squash, carrots, and potatoes.
• Calcium: Essential for their thick, large shells.

What You Receive

• Starter culture of X Porcellio laevis isopods.
• Mixed sizes (juveniles and adults) for a stable, self-sustaining population.

Why Buy From Us

✔ Robust, high-quality captive-bred lines.

✔ Safe shipping with climate-appropriate packaging.

✔ Excellent for heavy-duty bioactive cleaning.