Zebra isopods

Zebra isopods (Armadillidium maculatum) are a striking, beginner-friendly species prized for their crisp black-and-white banding and active behavior. They’re a great choice for bioactive enclosures as a cleanup crew, but they also shine as a display isopod thanks to how often they’re out exploring compared to many more “hidey” species.

Care & setup:

Zebras do best in a well-ventilated enclosure with a moisture gradient—keep one side slightly moist (with a damp moss patch or moist hide) and the other side mostly dry. They prefer it on the drier side overall compared to many tropical isopods, so avoid waterlogged substrate. A simple mix of organic topsoil/coco fiber with rotting wood and crushed leaf litter works well, with bark or cork flats for cover.

Diet:

A steady base of leaf litter and decaying hardwood is essential. You can supplement with fish flakes, shrimp pellets, quality isopod diets, or small amounts of veggie scraps for faster growth and breeding. Always provide a calcium source (cuttlebone, crushed eggshell, or calcium carbonate) to support healthy molts and strong shells.

Temperament & breeding:

Zebra isopods are hardy, low-maintenance, and reproduce reliably once established. With stable temperatures and regular feeding, colonies expand steadily—making them a solid option whether you want a dependable cleanup crew or a colony you can grow out long-term.

What you’ll receive:

Healthy, active zebra isopods packed around with care to arrive safely and ready to settle in. Perfect for keepers who want a tough, attractive isopod that’s easy to maintain and fun to watch.