Porcellio laevis is a species of woodlouse, also known as a smooth or
porcelain woodlouse, native to Europe. They're often kept as pets in vivariums
and terrariums due to their interesting appearance and ease of care. The name
dairy cow" comes from their black and white coloration, which resembles the
pattern of a Holstein dairy cow.
Here are some key points about Porcellio laevis:
Coloration: As mentioned, they have a striking black and white coloration,
with some individuals having varying degrees of gray or bluish tones. The black
and white patches often alternate across their back, resembling the patches on
a dairy cow.
Size: They are a fairly large isopod species, reaching around 1 to 1.5 cm in
length when fully grown.
Habitat: In the wild, Porcellio laevis typically inhabit damp areas like
forests, where they feed on decaying plant matter. However, they're commonly
kept as pets in captivity.
Care: Porcellio laevis is easy to care for, making them popular pets. They
require a moist environment with plenty of hiding spots, such as pieces of bark
or small shelters. They feed on a variety of organic matter like leaf litter,
vegetables, and commercial fish food.
Reproduction: They reproduce quickly in captivity. Female isopods carry
fertilized eggs in a brood pouch on their underside, where the eggs hatch into
miniature versions of the adults.
Role in Vivariums: In addition to being interesting pets in their own right,
Porcellio laevis can serve a useful role in vivariums by aiding in the
breakdown of organic waste, helping to keep the enclosure clean.
Overall, "dairy cow" isopods like Porcellio laevis are fascinating creatures
to observe and relatively low-maintenance, making them popular among hobbyists
who keep exotic pets.
As with all of our insects, live arrival is guaranteed.