Overview
The Powder Orange Isopod (Porcellionides pruinosus) is a popular, brightly coloured isopod species known for its speed, hardiness, and tolerance of a wider range of conditions than many other isopods. Its vivid orange colouring and dusty, “powdery” sheen make it a striking addition to any bioactive enclosure.
Native to warm climates worldwide, Porcellionides pruinosus is naturally found in leaf litter and under bark and stones, where it feeds on decaying plant matter. In captivity it adapts well to a range of substrate types and moisture levels, making it more forgiving than many tropical isopod species.
Breeding
Powder Orange Isopods breed readily in suitable conditions, with females carrying clutches of young in a brood pouch (marsupium) before releasing fully-formed juveniles. Colonies can grow quickly when provided with a varied diet and a stable, moderately humid environment with a drier area available.
In The Vivarium
This species works well as both a functional clean-up crew and a visible, attractive addition to a display vivarium. They’re particularly active and fast-moving compared to many other isopods, often seen foraging across leaf litter and substrate during the day as well as at night.
For full housing, feeding and breeding advice, see our Isopod Care Guide.
Care Requirements
| Scientific Name | Porcellionides pruinosus |
|---|---|
| Temperature Range | 22-27°C |
| Humidity Range | Moderate, with a drier area available |
| Diet | Leaf litter, decaying wood, vegetables, protein, calcium sources |
| Growth Rate / Maturity | Reaches maturity in a few months |
| Breeding Rate | Fast - regular broods of juveniles from the marsupium |
| Adult Size | 8-10mm |
| Typical Lifespan | Around 2 years |
| Native Range | Warm climates worldwide - leaf litter and under bark/stones |