Origin & Behavior

Porcellio laevis is cosmopolitan in distribution, often found in stables, compost heaps, and greenhouses. The " orange " morph is a genetically determined color variation of the same species—identical husbandry requirements to "Panda/Dairy Cow," but uniformly orange in color. Laevis are fast, active foragers, and in well-structured setups, are often seen during the day.

Terrarium & furnishings

Size & Ventilation

For a starting group of 25–35 animals , boxes of 5–10 liters or terrariums of 20×20×20 cm or larger are suitable. Strong ventilation (top and sides) is essential to ensure targeted humidity in humid zones .

Substrate & soil layers

At least 5 cm of loose forest soil with plenty of white-rot hardwood (crumbled) and dry leaves . A proven starter mix: forest soil : wood : leaves ≈ 2 : 1 : 1. Mix in crushed cuttlebone bone and add additional pieces – Laevis consume calcium quickly.

Humidity management

Laevis generally survive in drier conditions than tropical species, but require a permanently humid corner (approximately 60–75% RH) for drinking and molting. The rest of the area remains predominantly dry to slightly moist.

Feeding

Continuous food: Rotted leaves and dead wood should always be available. Supplement small portions of vegetables/leaves (e.g., zucchini, carrot, pumpkin, blackberry/beech leaves) once or twice a week .

Protein: Animal protein is important for litter size and growth: Gammarus, dried insects, or fish flakes in small portions. Remove leftovers promptly.

Lime: Add cuttlefish/mineral mix/eggshells regularly – essential for building the shell.

Breeding & Development

The gestation period is usually approximately 3–5 weeks , depending on temperature/stress. 20–40 pups are typical per litter. At approximately 25°C, pups reach breeding maturity after approximately 4 months ; adult size is typically reached after approximately 6–8 months . The lifespan is often approximately 12–18 months (some studies have shown up to approximately 2 years).

The average interval between litters in laboratory studies is approximately 7 weeks; in practice, this depends strongly on climate and feed.

Genetics & Lines

"Orange" is a color mutation described in the hobby as recessive . When crossbred with wild-type animals, the orange color dilutes over time. Note: The wild-type P. laevis is usually gray to dark gray (not jet black).

Care & Hygiene

• Partial substrate change every 3–4 months (never all at once), maintain microfauna.
• Detect overstocking early and thin out the colony or enlarge the tank if necessary.
• Mite prevention through strong ventilation, moderate feeding and removal of protein residues.
• Remove mold in specific areas; adjust humidity and airflow.

Posture report – step by step

1. Choose a tank: Faunabox 5–10 liters; lid and sides well ventilated.
2. Prepare substrate: at least 5 cm; starter mix 2:1:1 (forest soil: wood: leaves); mix in cuttlefish.
3. Structure & hiding places: Cork bark, pieces of bark, piles of leaves; arrange airily.
4. Create a wet zone: permanently moisten one corner; keep the rest of the area mostly dry.
5. Establish a starting colony: 25–35 animals; 24 hours of rest.
6. Start feeding: Leaves/dead wood permanently; 2x/week small portions of green fodder + protein.
7. Check after 14 days: no standing water, good air circulation; add more cuttlefish if necessary.