This is a large, burrowing species, so for a starter culture I'd recommend an enclosure at least a gallon in size, but for a more permanent culture a 5 gallon bin or larger would probably be best.
This species requires a organically rich substrate, preferably one made up primarily of rotten wood material. Flake soil and crushed rotten wood, along with leaf litter and larger wood chunks makes a good substrate, alternatively some organically rich potting soil or composts could work for the base. Substrate should be kept humid, and should be several inches deep.
This species spends most of it's time underground, but they will also hide under bark placed on top of the substrate or partially buried. Ventilation levels can be moderate to high, they aren't very picky, just make sure the substrate stays humid.
Diet:
While they will nibble on fruits and protein sources, their main diet will be their substrate, so well rotted wood and leaf litter. They're more like millipedes in this respect than the more typical isopods in culture.
Temperature:
For most of the year, temps of 74-78F° are recommended. But for yearly reproduction, a winter diapause is necessary, where the temperatures drop to the low 60s for at least three months.
Breeding/Life Cycle:
This species takes approximately 1-1.5 years to reach sexual maturity, with adults giving birth once to twice a year to broods of a couple dozen. Females seemingly hold onto the eggs and early instar mancae for at least a few hours inside of their brood chambers, before the mancae disperse into the substrate.
Failure to provide a winter diapause will likely result in females only breeding for one year, which lead to the myth of this species only reproducing once in their lifespan (despite the fact adults can live several years).
The most important component of keeping this species is the substrate. As long as it's of the proper nutritional value, and moisture level, this species should thrive, they are quite simple to set up. Pests such as fungus gnats, nematodes, and earthworms that will rapidly speed up the decay of the substrate and turn it into frass should be avoided and kept in check. Grain mites and other such pests shouldn't be an issue unless you are feeding an excessive amount of supplemental foods.
Overall this large species is quite easy to keep and breed, and certainly a worthy addition to any isopod breeder's collection.
No comments:
Post a Comment