Anyone kept isopods?

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T.C.
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PostT.C. 11/6/2016, 10:44 pm

Hi, has anyone kept Isopod's here or also known as pill bugs? Very Happy I am trying to keep them but I am not sure how to keep the tank somewhat wet or humid? I tried just a sponge but it kept molding?
Praxibetelix
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PostPraxibetelix 11/14/2016, 10:05 am

We have some pill bugs in our wheel bug's enclosure. I have Peat moss substrate. Every other day or so I simply pour a little water into one corner. I also keep a couple carrot pieces on top of the substrate. The isopods both eat them and hide under them. No idea if they are reproducing, as we only put in 3 or 4 to begin with. They make appearances off and on at night, but I have not dug through the substrate to check on their numbers!

The Peat moss does not seem to mold, nor do the silk leaves that are in there. The carrots get replaced every few days.
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PostT.C. 11/14/2016, 11:40 am

Oh, ok thanks.Where can I get this moss? Also welcome to the forum! Smile
Praxibetelix
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PostPraxibetelix 11/15/2016, 4:07 pm

Thanks!

I get the peat moss we use at home improvement stores or general stores such as Wal-Mart or Meijer. It is plant starter discs. The kind you add water to then they grow exponentially. Just look for organic peat moss discs, so it will be safe for your little guys.

My daughter's wheel bug laid a small clutch of dud eggs, so if she dies from that, then I will clean her enclosure. At that point I will check isopod numbers. I have noticed that the isopods will sometimes eat the cricket exoskeletons before I can remove the dead insect lol. They are a great clean up crew for sure!
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PostT.C. 11/16/2016, 1:23 pm

Yeah, i use them in my earwig tank, they clean up all the left overs that the earwigs leave behind.
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PostHisserdude 12/1/2016, 7:28 pm

Isopods require dead, decaying hardwood leaves for good reproduction, otherwise cultures just fizzle out. Good ventilation is also important in some species, particularly with Armadillidium vulgare and maculatum, without good ventilation those species die off in huge numbers.
Praxibetelix
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PostPraxibetelix 12/1/2016, 8:42 pm

Maybe I should take the kids on a leaf collecting walk!
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