Isopod Pets: The Best Species for Every Beginner in the UK

Isopods are environmental detritivores. They are the clean-up crew of nature. They eat dead or rotting bugs, animal waste, organic matter, etc. There are thousands of isopod species today in the UK or in the whole world. Some are being kept by people as pets. Isopods have become trendy pets in recent years.  Here are the easiest species for beginners to care for.

Pill Bugs

They are great for beginners because of their hardiness. They do not require that much care, which is a good option for new pet owners. People often choose pill bugs because they are easier to care for. All they need is a moist base, a mix of dirt and leaf litter, and a moderate temperature, and they will thrive.

Panda King

These isopods are true to their name. They have a rounder appearance and have a shorter body length. They look like pandas where they have black ends on their head and rears. Their appearance resembles the Asiatic bear when curled up into a little ball.

Papaya

This type of isopod was initially discovered in Florida. They have an almost translucent shell or other light colors. But one of the most popular papaya isopods sold as pets today comes in a solid pink color.

Rubber Ducky

This is one of the highly sought-after isopod species. They are known for their slower rate of reproduction. Rubber duckies are small and measure at just over half an inch. They have a blueish-black shell and yellow features around the head and rear. They also have small and beady jet-black eyes on a yellow head, making them look like rubber-ducky.

Shiro Utsuri

Its name translates to ‘white reflection,’ indeed, its appearance can be described just as that. The shiru utsuri has a ghostly white look with an almost transparent shell. Despite that, they are not hard to see. It has black dapples along their bodies, making them look unique and striking. Their physical characteristics make them popular among isopod collectors.

Silver Ghost

Their shells are not white despite the name given to them. The silver ghost has many colors. They come in silvers, a bit of yellow hints, and light purples. Their color gives them a more mysterious look.

Choosing the Right Isopod Species for You

There are different species of isopods to choose from. When picking an isopod species for a beginner, there are several factors to consider, especially if you’re from the UK. Taking care of them is easy, but you should know how.

Pill bugs are the easiest to care for. The other species suggested above are also the best options for beginners. Ensure you read more about them and research the proper way to take care of these isopods. You may get a couple from different species and start learning from them.

Steer clear of species that have more complicated needs. Avoid those that are sensitive to environmental changes. Beginners can focus more on learning the basics of isopod care. This will make them more familiar with how these pets can thrive. This way, they will later on be more ready to get other species.