Take the hassle out of fruitless searching for study animals. Commonly known in New Zealand as woodlice or slaters, Porcellio scaber is one of many species of terrestrial isopods that plays a vital role in decomposition and nutrient cycling. It is widely studied in secondary school science and biology due to its fascinating adaptations to life on land and because of its ease of care. It can be used to investigate aspects such as exoskeleton structure, body parts, respiration, moulting and reproductive strategies. Porcellio scaber also serves as an excellent experimental organism for humane studies on habitat, food preferences, humidity tolerance and light sensitivity.
It is best to order your starter colony early so the juveniles can gain size for easier handling, and so the adults can continue to breed.
Note: Starter colony contains approximately 100 woodlice typically including a mix of juveniles and some adults.
Species: Porcellio scaber, known worldwide as the common rough woodlouse, or simply rough woodlouse.
More detail
Habitat
Porcellio scaber, thrives in damp environments such as under logs, stones, and leaf litter. They prefer areas with high humidity to prevent desiccation.
Feeding
This species primarily feeds on decaying organic matter, such as dead plant material, contributing to nutrient recycling in ecosystems. Occasionally, they may consume fungi or soft plant tissues.
Life Cycle
Porcellio scaber undergoes direct development, with young hatching as miniature versions of adults after being brooded in a marsupium (pouch) on the female. They grow through successive moults, reaching maturity in a few months.
Male/Female Differences
Males and females are similar in appearance but can be distinguished by the structure of their pleopods (appendages under the abdomen). Males often have more pronounced sexual appendages used during mating.
Behaviour
Porcellio scaber are nocturnal and exhibit aggregation behavior, often clustering in groups to reduce water loss. They display negative phototaxis (avoidance of light) and respond to environmental stimuli such as humidity and temperature.
Shipping Notes
Delivered live to physical, attended addresses.
Dispatched Mondays and Tuesdays (10am cut-off), school terms only.
Living organisms are priority shipped (usually overnight) to minimise delays. This is a little more expensive, but minimises stress and potential losses. Rural delivery will incur extra costs.