Porcellio Nicklesi "Orange"

Product Description

Porcellio nicklesi is a robust and visually striking "Giant Spanish" isopod that stands out for its high-contrast aesthetic. Unlike the flattened "pancake" species, P. nicklesi features a strongly convex, high-domed body with a rugged, textured exoskeleton. It is orange base color, which is beautifully framed by thick, brilliant white margins.

This species is a powerhouse of activity. They are bold, fast-moving, and much hardier than many of their flatter relatives. Their "armored tank" build makes them incredibly resilient, and they are known for being prolific breeders once established. Because of their size and their striking "tuxedo" look, they are a favorite for both bioactive clean-up crews and specialized display collections.

Perfect for Mediterranean bioactive terrariums, larger reptile enclosures, and collectors looking for a hardy, high-contrast giant.

Species Information

• Species: Porcellio nicklesi "Orange"
• Origin: Southern Spain (Andalusia)
• Size: ~2.5 cm (Robust and bulky)
• Activity Level: High / Very Bold
• Rarity: Uncommon / Highly Sought After

Care Requirements

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Humidity: Low to Medium. They require a clear moisture gradient. Keep 70% of the enclosure dry with one corner of damp sphagnum moss.
• Temperature: 20–27°C (68–80°F). They are very tolerant of Mediterranean heat.
• Ventilation: High. Like all Spanish Porcellio, they need excellent airflow to thrive.
• Substrate: Deep organic soil mix with plenty of calcium and dry leaf litter.

Must Provide:

• Cork Bark: They love to congregate in groups under large pieces of bark.
• Thick layers of hardwood leaf litter (Oak/Beech).
• A dedicated "hydration station" (damp moss corner).
• Constant access to calcium.

Origin and Distribution

Porcellio nicklesi is native to the Iberian Peninsula, specifically the sun-baked regions of Southern Spain.

Adapted to Mediterranean scrublands and olive groves, these isopods are built to survive in environments with fluctuating humidity. In the wild, they are often found under large rocks or deep within leaf litter where the soil retains a bit of moisture. Their robust, convex shape helps them retain internal hydration better than flatter species, making them one of the more "forgiving" giants from the Spanish region.

Diet

• Primary: Voracious eaters of dry leaf litter and decaying wood.
• Protein: High Demand. They are very protein-driven. Provide dried shrimp, fish flakes, or minnows 2-3 times a week.
• Vitamins: Fresh vegetables like carrots, squash, or sweet potato.
• Calcium: Crucial. Necessary for their thick, calcified armor.

What You Receive

• Starter culture of X Porcellio nicklesi isopods.
• Mixed sizes (juveniles and sub-adults) to jumpstart your colony.

Why Buy From Us

✔ Robust, healthy captive-bred Spanish stock.

✔ Expertly packed for safe delivery.

✔ Ideal for those looking for a large, hardy, and high-contrast species.