Porcellio ornatus "High Yellow"
A large, boldly patterned Iberian isopod with striking yellow markings — impressive in size and colour.
About this species
Porcellio ornatus is a large, attractive isopod from the Iberian Peninsula. The "High Yellow" form displays bold yellow or cream patterning on a dark base — one of the more visually striking Porcellio species. Adults reach approximately 2-2.5 cm, making them impressive display animals that are easy to observe.
Like all isopods, P. ornatus is a terrestrial crustacean that breathes through gill-like pleopods — not an insect. As a Porcellio, it cannot conglobate. It is adapted to Mediterranean conditions and appreciates moderate humidity with good ventilation.
Enclosure
A well-ventilated tub with at least a 30x20 cm footprint is recommended. P. ornatus is a larger species that benefits from space. Good airflow is important — this species does not tolerate stagnant, overly humid conditions. Furnish with cork bark, dried leaves, and cuttlebone.
Substrate
- 60% coco coir
- 20% organic topsoil
- 10% sand for drainage
- 10% crushed hardwood leaf litter
Maintain a moisture gradient — one damp corner with the rest kept moderately dry. Depth 6–10 cm to allow burrowing. Top with dried oak or beech leaves. Never use softwood (pine, cedar) — toxic to isopods.
Feeding
- Dried hardwood leaves — staple food source
- Vegetables: courgette, carrot, sweet potato
- Cuttlefish bone — essential for calcium and healthy moults
- Protein 1–2 times weekly: dried shrimp, fish flakes, or dried insects
Larger species need proportionally more food and protein. Keep protein consistently available in growing colonies. Remove fresh food within 48 hours.
Breeding
P. ornatus breeds at a moderate pace — not as fast as P. laevis or P. scaber, but steady and reliable. Females carry eggs in a marsupium. Starting with 15 or more individuals is recommended. Colony growth is noticeable over several months, making this a rewarding species for patient keepers who want an attractive display colony.