Albino caterpillar on forest floor. Albino caterpillar on forest floor.

How to Care for Dalmatian Isopods – The Complete Guide

Dalmatian isopods are popular as pets and feed for other animals. They are great to look at and resemble dalmatian dogs with black spots on white bodies.

They also curl up into balls and entertain you for hours, apart from their beautiful appearance.  In addition, Dalmatian isopods contribute to the environment they live in. For example, these isopods will eat rotten organic matter like leaves and keep your enclosure clean.

They also act as substrate aerators and allow for other lives to thrive. Moreover, Dalmatian isopods are delicious snacks for amphibians and reptiles.

Therefore, you can feed your lizards and frogs these isopods for lunch or dinner.

Most importantly, Dalmatian isopods are not challenging to breed. You may grow a colony of healthy isopods by spending only a few minutes in your day.

Today, we will learn how to care for Dalmatian isopods. You will gather key information on aspects like diet, habitat, and breeding process of these isopods.

Additionally, we will explore a few basic topics like the lifespan and size of Dalmatian isopods. So, let’s dive right in without delay.

Common Size of Dalmatian Isopods

Dalmatian isopods are good pets because of their size. The biggest of them may grow to 0.7 inches or 20 mm.

However, most of them are at least half an inch long.

Dalmatian isopods generally have a white body. The black spots appear with age and become more prominent as they gain adulthood.

However, the occurrence and pattern of spots vary from one isopod to another, just like dogs.

Dalmatian isopods also have a soft body with a rugged outer body. It resembles an ancient soldier’s armor with several scales lining the back of the isopod.

Dalmatian isopods breed fast even though they are not very big. As a result, you may need to get a big enclosure to accommodate a growing colony.

Estimated Lifespan of Dalmatian Isopods

Isopods live up to 3 to 4 years. However, the bigger Dalmatian isopods may survive less, such as 2 years.

You can ensure proper longevity for your isopods by taking good care. Maintain the right temperature and humidity levels as long as your colony is alive.

In addition, feed the proper diet and always ensure an adequate amount of food is present in the enclosure.

Moreover, keep the box well ventilated and refill the top layer when required. These conditions can help your isopods live a longer life, even in captivity.

Caring for Dalmatian Isopods

Dalmatian isopods don’t need extensive caring or maintenance. They need a proper habitat that can be easily made out of a plastic container.

However, you have to maintain temperatures of around 70 – 85 degrees F to provide the proper condition for Dalmatian isopods. In addition, they need high humidity levels of 80% to 90%.

Moreover, they need adequate food with plenty of leaf litter and an organic diet like vegetables and fruits. You can also culture Dalmatian isopods with male and female species. They multiply quickly and lead to a growing colony in a short time. These creatures are perfect for beginners and can be maintained with less work and time.

Difficulty Level

Isopods are generally easy to culture. You can use male and female species to grow your colony without any special intervention.

Therefore, even beginners can breed Dalmatian isopods with success. You also need a container that you may find in your home.

In addition, you can feed things from the kitchen like vegetables for more convenience. Moreover, Dalmatian isopods breed fast and take a short time to have countless isopods playing around.

Enclosure for Dalmatian Isopods

You can use things around the home as an enclosure for Dalmatian isopods. For example, a shoebox or a plastic container are suitable options to keep your isopods.

However, it is recommended to use a plastic enclosure as they are easy to clean. Moreover, the isopods won’t be able to climb to the sides and escape.

You may want a lid for the enclosure for additional security.

One important thing when choosing an enclosure is ventilation. Therefore, you will have to make holes in the lid to allow air to move freely inside the container.

You may also drill holes on the sides of the enclosure a few inches above the substrate.

In the wild, Dalmatian isopods live on the land in different parts of the world. However, they love to stay under the rocks where there is more warmth or moisture.

In addition, you will find them in crevices or cracks in rocks in the woods.

Your enclosure should provide similar conditions for these creatures to live most comfortably.

Substrate for Dalmatian Isopods

The substrate is crucial for Dalmatian isopods. It should have a depth of about 2 inches and end several inches below the top of the enclosure.

You can aim to create the base layer of the substrate with wood and peat moss. Sprinkle some water on top after you place the base layer evenly.

Next, you can boil leaf litter in a pan and put it over the base layer. It should be around an inch in depth and allow the isopods to dig in.

This layer should always be well hydrated. You should spray water often so that the layer doesn’t dry up and dehydrate the isopods.

In addition, keeping the top layer humid ensures the substrate stays hydrated. It is highly important, as isopods can die in the absence of moisture.

Hobbyists may also use premix substrates available at stores for Dalmatian isopods.

We interviewed Bricks Coggin, CEO of ABCs Puppy Zs, about the innovative techniques for Dalmatian isopod habitats. He is keenly interested in terrarium ecosystems and has collaborated with habitat design specialists to create environments for various species, including Dalmatian isopods. Here is what he had to say:

Bricks Coggin
Bricks Coggin

“Creating an environment that closely mimics the natural habitat of Dalmatian isopods is crucial for their health and wellbeing. Here are some innovative methods I have employed:

  • Layered Substrate System: To replicate the forest floor, I use a multi-layer substrate system that includes high-quality organic soil, decayed leaves, and fine bark pieces. This not only simulates their natural environment but also supports necessary microbial activity that is beneficial for isopods.
  • Controlled Humidity Levels: Dalmatian isopods thrive in moist conditions. I have implemented an automated misting system that maintains optimal humidity levels within the habitat. This system is timed to mimic natural dew periods, providing a more realistic environmental cycle.
  • Temperature Gradients: By using heating pads under one part of the enclosure and cooler areas on the other, I create a temperature gradient that allows the isopods to self-regulate their body temperature by moving between warmer and cooler areas, mimicking their natural behavior in the wild.
  • Naturalistic Decor: Incorporating a variety of natural elements such as rocks, branches, and live plants not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the habitat but also provides the isopods with spaces to explore and hide, promoting natural behaviors.
  • Bioactive Components: Introducing other harmless invertebrates and microorganisms forms a bioactive setup that helps break down waste, reduces mold growth, and maintains ecological balance within the habitat.
  • Regular Monitoring: Using sensors to continuously monitor and adjust environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and light ensures the habitat remains closely aligned with natural conditions.

These techniques not only enhance the well-being of Dalmatian isopods by providing a simulation of their natural habitat but also contribute to a stable and sustainable ecosystem within their enclosure.”

Suitable Temperature for Dalmatian Isopods

Dalmatian isopods prefer to live in warm and moist conditions. Therefore, you should keep the enclosure warm to ensure a healthy batch of baby isopods.

In captivity, you should aim for temperatures of 70 degrees F to 80 F. However, the temperature should be a little higher during the breeding season.

You can maintain around 75 degrees F to 85 degrees F while the female isopods carry eggs.

Most homes will have the right temperature to care for Dalmatian isopods. However, you may need to shift your enclosure to a warmer spot in your house in colder locations.

In addition, you may use a heating pad to keep the enclosure warm. Just place the mat under the container and keep an eye on the temperature levels.

Suitable Humidity for Dalmatian Isopods

As noted above, Dalmatian isopods love to stay in moist environments. Therefore, you will have to maintain a high level of humidity, around 80% to 90%.

This is more important during the breeding season when the female isopods lay eggs. The moisture ensures the eggs remain well hydrated and lead to healthy offspring.

You should also keep the top layer of the substrate well moistened all the time. The layer below should also be adequately hydrated.

Therefore, you may have to spray a bit of water inside the container. Make sure always has enough moisture for the isopods as they can die due to dehydration.

Best Diet for Dalmatian Isopods

Dalmatian isopods will eat pretty much anything. They love to eat dead and decaying plant matter like leaves and wood.

Therefore, you can easily keep them well fed in established environments with enough organic matter.

In isolation, you may feed Dalmatian isopods leaf litter from oak or maple trees. Additionally, you may throw in pieces of bark or decaying wood from the same trees for more nutrition.

Moreover, they may consume other organic matter to act as cleaners.

In addition, Dalmatian isopods can be fed fruits and vegetables. You may add potatoes, squashes, carrots, and more to the menu.

However, cut the veggies into small pieces so that they are tiny enough for the isopods to eat.

Unlike some families of isopods, Dalmatian isopods don’t eat insects or bugs. Therefore, you shouldn’t feed them any cuts from meat like chicken or beef.

However, you can try different things like moss and even yeast.

Ensure to feed Dalmatian isopods gradually to prevent overeating. You should put a small amount of food in the enclosure when you notice a shortage.

In addition, you may try premix food for isopods available from many brands. You may also be able to get food meant for Dalmatian isopods to fulfill their nutritional requirements.

However, clean any decaying food from the enclosure and replace it with fresh food. The only rotten stuff allowed in the enclosure is leaves and wood.

The Icy Whiz team interviewed Evan Tunis, President of Florida Healthcare Insurance on this. Here is what he had to say:

Evan Tunis - Featured
Evan Tunis

“When it comes to creating a naturalistic environment for my Dalmatian isopods, there are a few innovative methods and techniques I have employed. One of the most important factors is providing a suitable substrate that mimics their natural habitat.

In the wild, these isopods can be found in leaf litter and soil, so I make sure to provide a mix of these materials in their enclosure. Additionally, I have incorporated various types of hiding spots, such as logs, rocks, and branches, for the isopods to seek shelter and feel secure.

This not only mimics their natural habitat but also provides them with enrichment opportunities.”

Breeding Dalmatian Isopods

Isopods are generally easy to breed, and the same applies to Dalmatian isopods. They multiply fast and can grow a colony of isopods in a short time.

Best of all, the colony will keep on growing as long as it has the right living conditions for the isopods.

You will need both male and female isopods to breed your colony. Female isopods become sexually active at 6 months and mate with male isopods to produce eggs.

The female isopod will carry the eggs around in a sack under her body. She will also ensure the eggs are well hydrated till they hatch.

Approximately the eggs will hatch in a few weeks after the female mates with the male.

You will not be able to see the small isopods as they come out of the eggs. They will grow a little big in a few days and appear to the naked eye.

However, you will not see any black or dark spots during this time. The spots will appear after a while as these creatures age.

You can then watch them for hours and enjoy seeing these isopods turn into a ball if disturbed.

A female isopod lays several hundred eggs over her life. Therefore, you can expect to breed more isopods by maintaining suitable conditions for your colony.

During breeding, you should take a few extra steps to ensure a healthy batch of young isopods. The temperature needs to be around 80 – 85 degrees F with enough warmth for the mother and the eggs.

In addition, you should maintain a humidity level of 80% to 90%. Always ensure the enclosure is well hydrated and the isopods have enough moisture to thrive.

Also, refill the enclosure with new rounds of feed and organic matter. Keep an eye on the existing amount of food and refill only when required.

Dalmatian isopods are quick breeders, and you may need more space soon. In that case, you may get a new enclosure and shift some of the isopods for more room.

Dalmatian Isopods FAQ

  1. How big does a Dalmatian isopod grow?

Dalmatian isopods may attain sizes of over half an inch when mature. They may grow to about 0.7 inches or 20 mm.

  1. What do Dalmatian Isopods eat?

Dalmatian isopods eat leaf and wood litter. They also consume vegetables and other organic things like squash or moss.

  1. Can you keep Dalmatian isopods as pets?

Dalmatian isopods make great pets. They are big in size and curl into a ball when disturbed, providing you with entertainment.

Final Thoughts

Dalmatian isopods are great pets and food for other animals. They also look beautiful with their black spots.

They are easy to breed and need you to fulfill only a few basic conditions. The list includes the right temperature, food, and humidity.

Most people will be able to care for Dalmatian isopods at home without additional setup or investments.

They can also be introduced in established environments to grow a colony or act as nutrition for pets.

Guest Author: Saket Kumar

Last Updated on April 30, 2024 by suchi

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Soubhik
  1. Fantastic information. I just know the species called isopods. Its amazing finds its all information in a page. Overall, it serves as a useful resource for anyone interested in maintaining a colony of Dalmatian isopods.

  2. I found this guide on caring for Dalmatian isopods incredibly informative. It’s a comprehensive overview, explaining not only their captivating appearance but also their role in maintaining a clean environment. The insights on their contribution as substrate aerators and being a nutritious snack for amphibians and reptiles were particularly interesting. The guide also emphasizes the ease of breeding, making it accessible for anyone interested in these unique pets.

  3. Caring for Dalmatian Isopods: Dive into the fascinating world of these spotted wonders with a size ranging up to 0.7 inches. Known for their dog-like appearance, these isopods are easy to care for and make delightful pets. With a lifespan of 3-4 years, maintaining proper temperature (70-85°F) and high humidity (80-90%) is key. A plastic enclosure with ventilation holes, suitable substrate, and a varied diet of organic matter contribute to a thriving colony.

  4. All I know are the species known as isopods. It’s incredible that all of the information is on one website. All things considered, it’s a helpful guide for anyone interested in keeping a colony of Dalmatian isopods.

  5. This article has all of the information needed to be able to successfully raise and breed isopods. This will be very helpful for anyone wanting to do so.

  6. This article about taking care of Dalmatian isopods really helped me out. It explained things in a way that’s easy to understand, from their size and lifespan to setting up their home and what to feed them. I learned a lot about how to make sure they’re happy and healthy, especially the part about breeding. Overall, it’s a super useful guide for someone like me who’s curious about keeping Dalmatian isopods.

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