Porcellio dilatatus
A large, fast-breeding workhorse — equally popular as feeder cultures and as display pets.
About this species
Porcellio dilatatus is a large, robust Porcellio species native to south-western Europe. Adults reach 1.5–2 cm, with a broad, flattened body shape. The species is popular both as a display animal and as a feeder culture for reptile and amphibian keepers, thanks to its reliable breeding and good size.
Like all isopods, P. dilatatus is a terrestrial crustacean that breathes through gill-like pleopods — not an insect. As a Porcellio, it cannot conglobate. Several morphs exist, including wild-type grey and selectively bred variants. The species has notably higher protein requirements than many other isopods.
Enclosure
A well-ventilated plastic tub with a 30x20 cm footprint is suitable for a starter colony. P. dilatatus appreciates good airflow and moderate humidity. Cork bark and egg cartons provide hides; dried leaves and cuttlebone should always be present. Colonies grow quickly, so plan for a larger enclosure or splitting within a few months.
Substrate
- 60% coco coir
- 20% organic topsoil
- 10% sand for drainage
- 10% leaf litter (hardwood only — softwood like pine or cedar is toxic)
Maintain a moisture gradient with one damp corner. P. dilatatus is tolerant of a range of moisture levels but does best with moderate, consistent humidity. Depth 5–8 cm, topped with dried oak or beech leaves.
Feeding
P. dilatatus has higher protein needs than many isopod species. Insufficient protein can lead to cannibalism, especially in dense colonies.
- Dried hardwood leaves — staple food
- Vegetables: courgette, carrot, sweet potato
- Cuttlefish bone — essential calcium source
- Protein 2–3 times per week: dried shrimp, fish flakes, dried mealworms, or high-protein fish food
Remove uneaten fresh food within 48 hours. Keep protein consistently available in fast-growing colonies.
Breeding
P. dilatatus is one of the fastest-breeding isopod species. Females carry eggs in a marsupium and can produce large broods every 4–6 weeks at stable temperatures. Colonies can double in size within two to three months. This makes P. dilatatus excellent for feeder cultures or for keepers who want to build numbers quickly. Be prepared to split colonies or provide larger enclosures as populations grow.