Porcellio Haasi "High Yellow" are among the few terrestrial isopods that reach an impressive sizes as adults with large males reaching 1 to 1.25 inches in length. Males are easily distinguishable having much longer uropods than the females. This species is typically on the shy side and you won't see them out in the open moving about like other isopod species. But once their numbers are up they will be a bit more bold to show themselves periodically. They spend much of their times on the undersides of cork bark, rotting wood and thick leaf litter.
Be aware that males are very territorial and your enclosure should have ample space along with multiple hides to minimize conflicts and stress. The bright yellow coloration of these individuals is a line bred trait selectively isolated and is a breath taking sight to see in real life. Originating from the mountainous areas of Spain, these titan sized isopods prefer a drier habitat but still need a damp area to rehydrate from time to time.
Quick Facts
- Origin: Spain
- Scientific Name: Porcellio Haasi
- Family: Porcellionidae
- Morph Name: High Yellow
- Size: Up to 1.25 inches
- Activity level: Generally reclusive
- Difficulty: Intermediate
Porcellio Hassi Care
Housing- A larger enclosure is beneficial as these unique isopods do reach larger sizes and males are fiercely territorial. Provide plenty of hides such as corkl bark, rotting wood slabs or egg crate to ensure minimal conflict between mature males. A gasket type tote or glass aquarium measuring 20-24 inches in length and 10-12 inches wide is ideal for a small to medium culture.
Temperature- Average room temperature of 70-78F. A small night drop no lower than the mid 60sF is fine. Daytime highs should not exceed the very low 80sF. Carefully consider the room and location where they will placed to ensure a relatively stable temperature range. Low wattage plant seedling heat mats with a thermostat can be used for supplemental warmth at night or during colder seasons if needed.
Humidity- 45-50% average humidity with a steep moisture gradient. Originating from the arid mountainous regions of Spain, these isopods need a slightly drier set up with sufficient ventilation to thrive. 1/4 to 1/3 of the enclosure should have damp (not wet) sphagnum mossing covering the hides and leaf litter. A slightly deeper substrate depth combined with a thin layer of leaf litter on top of the moss will do well to retain humidity and reduce the frequency of watering needed to keep the moist side from drying out. The rest of the enclosure can be allowed to dry out with just a periodic misting or light watering.
Diet- Always have an abundance of dried leaf litter and soft rotting wood as their primary diet. They will eagerly accept most any veggies and commercially available isopod foods like repashy morning wood or bug burger which can be offered on a supplemental basis 2-3 times per week. Being a classic porcellio, they do enjoy protein so items like freeze dried minnows and shrimp are also a good option. Use care to ensure all supplemental food is consumed within within 1-2 days max and remove any uneaten food that shows signs of spoiling.
Supplements- Crushed oyster shell, eggs shell or cuttlebone are highly recommended for calcium and can be replaced as needed. A good calcium source helps ensure easier molting, fast growth rates and optimal reproduction success for your culture.