Porcellio Ornatus "Yellow"

Product Description

Porcellio ornatus (often referred to as the "Ornate Isopod") is a magnificent, large-bodied species belonging to the Spanish "giant" group. This species is highly prized for its elongated, elegant shape and its striking yellow-spotted pattern that runs down its dark slate or brownish back.

What makes P. ornatus unique is its impressive size and its long uropods (the tail-like appendages), which give it a very prehistoric and majestic silhouette. They are incredibly fast and active, making them a joy to watch as they explore their environment. While they can serve as a heavy-duty clean-up crew, their beauty and size make them a top-tier choice for display terrariums.

Perfect for Mediterranean bioactive setups, collectors of giant species, and hobbyists who want a bold, visible isopod.

Species Information

• Species: Porcellio ornatus "Yellow"
• Origin: Southwestern Europe (Primarily Southern Spain and North Africa)
• Size: ~2.5–3.0 cm (A truly large species)
• Activity Level: Very High / Fast-moving
• Rarity: Popular / Collector's Favorite

Care Requirements

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (Requires proper airflow)
• Humidity: Low to Medium. They thrive with a strong moisture gradient. It is vital to keep 70% of the enclosure dry, with one consistently damp corner.
• Temperature: 20–28°C (68–82°F). They handle heat very well compared to other species.
• Ventilation: High/Excellent. Like most Spanish Porcellio, they require significant airflow to stay healthy.
• Substrate: Deep organic soil mix with plenty of dry leaf litter.

Must Provide:

• Large pieces of cork bark or flat stones for hiding.
• Thick layers of hardwood leaf litter.
• A damp moss area for molting.
• A constant calcium source.

Origin and Distribution

Porcellio ornatus is native to the Iberian Peninsula (Southern Spain) and parts of Northern Africa.

Evolved in a Mediterranean climate, these isopods are experts at surviving hot, dry summers. In their natural habitat, they are often found in rocky areas or under the bark of trees, where they hide from the heat during the day and emerge at night to feed. Because they come from semi-arid regions, they are much more resistant to "drying out" than tropical species, provided they have a small damp retreat to rehydrate.

Diet

• Primary: Heavy consumption of leaf litter and white-rotted wood.
• Protein: High protein demand. Provide dried shrimp, fish flakes, or insect-based pellets twice a week.
• Vitamins: Occasional slices of carrot, squash, or cucumber.
• Calcium: Essential for their large, ornate exoskeletons.

What You Receive

• Starter culture of X Porcellio ornatus isopods.
• Mixed sizes (juveniles and sub-adults) to ensure a successful breeding colony.

Why Buy From Us

✔ Beautifully patterned, healthy captive-bred stock.

✔ Expertly packed to ensure safe arrival.

✔ Ideal for those looking for impressive, "giant" isopod species.