Trachelipus Caucasius

Product Description

Trachelipus caucasius is a true architectural marvel of the isopod world. Hailing from the rugged mountain regions of the Caucasus, this species is famous for its extraordinarily wide and flattened morphology. It is often referred to as a "pancake" type isopod, featuring massive lateral expansions (epimera) that give it a much broader silhouette than almost any other terrestrial crustacean of its size.

Visually, they are stunning: a deep, dark charcoal-to-black base color framed by vivid, creamy-white margins that accentuate their unique shape. Unlike the delicate giants of the Mediterranean, T. caucasius is built for the mountains. They are hardy, robust, and impressively large, with a powerful grip that allows them to navigate rocky terrain. They are active explorers and, once established, are surprisingly prolific.

Perfect for high-contrast display terrariums, mountain-themed setups, and collectors who want a giant species with a "pancake" build and exceptional hardiness.

Species Information

• Species: Trachelipus caucasius
• Origin: Caucasus Mountains (Georgia / Russia / Armenia)
• Size: ~2.5–3.0 cm (Notably wide and broad)
• Activity Level: High / Bold and Powerful
• Rarity: Uncommon / Highly Sought After for Shape

Care Requirements

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate (Very hardy once settled)
• Humidity: Medium. Unlike the "bone-dry" Spanish species, T. caucasius prefers a slightly more humid environment. Maintain a 60/40 gradient: a large damp moss area is essential, but they still need a dry retreat.
• Temperature: 15–24°C (59–75°F). They are cold-hardy and prefer temperate conditions. Avoid extreme heat (above 27°C).
• Ventilation: Moderate to High. They appreciate fresh air but are more tolerant of humidity than Porcellio giants.
• Substrate: Rich organic soil mix with plenty of leaf litter and added calcium.

Must Provide:

• Large, Flat Cork Bark or Slate: They love to wedge their flat bodies under heavy, flat objects.
• Abundant Hardwood Leaf Litter: Oak and Beech are their primary diet.
• A consistent, large "hydration station" (damp moss).
• Constant access to high-quality calcium (cuttlebone).

Origin and Distribution

Trachelipus caucasius is native to the Caucasus Mountains, bridging Eastern Europe and Western Asia.

Evolved in high-altitude forests and rocky outcrops, this species is adapted to a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Their wide, flat bodies are an evolutionary adaptation for clinging to rocks and hiding in narrow crevices to avoid predators and extreme weather. This mountain heritage makes them incredibly resilient to temperature drops that would harm more tropical species.

Diet

• Primary: Voracious consumers of dry leaf litter and decaying white-rotted wood.
• Protein: High Demand. Provide dried shrimp, fish flakes, or insect pellets 2 times a week.
• Vitamins: They enjoy fresh vegetables, especially squash and carrots.
• Calcium: Absolute Requirement. Their wide, armored shells need constant mineral support.

What You Receive

• Starter culture of X Trachelipus caucasius isopods.
• Mixed sizes (juveniles and sub-adults) to ensure a strong, long-term colony.

Why Buy From Us

✔ Robust, healthy captive-bred stock from cold-hardy lineages.

✔ Secure and professional packaging for guaranteed live arrival.

✔ One of the most visually unique "wide" species available in the hobby.