Porcellio scaber "Lava" – a robust isopod for terrariums with a striking orange and black pattern. This breed of Porcellio scaber is particularly popular because it is eye-catching, easy to observe, and considered relatively easy to keep . It is well-suited for isopod boxes, terrariums, and bioactive setups .
What makes Porcellio scaber “Lava” special:
– Striking lava pattern : dark base color with orange to reddish areas
– Robust posture : considered adaptable and beginner-friendly
– Easily observable : an active species for keepers who want to visibly experience something in the setup
– Suitable for bioactive setups : also interesting as soil police in suitable terrariums
Climate & furnishings:
A humus-rich substrate with leaves, white-rotted wood, and hiding places has proven effective. A humidity gradient is beneficial: one corner remains slightly to moderately moist, while the rest of the area is kept drier. Good ventilation remains important. A suitable temperature range for this setup is approximately 18–26 °C .
Feeding & Care:
The diet consists primarily of leaves, rotten wood, and plant-based foods . Fresh food such as zucchini, carrots, or sweet potatoes can be offered regularly as a supplement. A small protein source and a consistent calcium source, such as cuttlebone, are also beneficial. Uneaten food should be removed regularly.
Reproduction & Development:
Porcellio scaber “Lava” is considered reliable and easy to breed . Under stable conditions, the colony grows steadily. Reproduction in visible environments is generally described as moderate to rapid , although specific figures are not always the same.
Who this species might be of interest to:
– for beginners looking for a robust woodlouse species
– for owners who want a striking orange-black morph
– for structured isopod setups with a clear humidity zone and good ventilation
– for bioactive terrariums with moderate to semi-humid humidity
Matching accessories:
Depending on the setup, a woodlouse bowl , a double woodlouse bowl or a suitable BioFaunaCube is suitable for clean feeding and structured housing.
| Experience |
Humidity |
temperature |
| ★☆☆☆☆ |
moderately humid with a dry zone |
18–26 °C |
Is Porcellio scaber “Lava” suitable for beginners? +
Yes, the species is generally considered robust, tolerant and easy to keep , provided the humidity gradient, ventilation and food supply are adequate.
What does Porcellio scaber eat, "lava"? +
The diet consists mainly of leaves and rotten wood . Fresh food, protein, and calcium are suitable supplements.
Which stance is sensible? +
A well-ventilated setup with humus-rich substrate, leaves, wood and a moderately moist corner is recommended, with the rest of the area being drier overall.
How quickly does the species reproduce ?
Porcellio scaber “Lava” is considered to be reliably prolific . However, the rate at which the colony grows depends heavily on temperature, food, and husbandry conditions.