Dairy Cow Care
| Dairy Cow Care | |
|---|---|
| Common name | Dairy Cow |
| Scientific name | Porcellio aff. laevis |
| Size | 1.5 - 2.5 cm |
| Lifespan | ~2 years |
| Care level | Very Easy |
| Activity level | High |
| Behavior | Terrestrial |
| Burrowing | No |
| Enclosure type | Semi-arid to Tropical |
| Recommended substrate | Organic topsoil + leaf litter mix |
| Temperature range | 70°-80°F |
| Humidity | 30%-85% |
| Ventilation | Tolerates a wide range. Low - High. |
| Food |
|
| Supplements |
|
| Reproductive rate | Moderate |
| Rarity | Common |
"Dairy Cow" Isopod (Porcellio aff. laevis)[edit | edit source]
Description[edit | edit source]
Amongst the most prevalent beginner species in the hobby, "Dairy Cows" are known for their voracious appetite for protein and distinct appearance — which resembles the Holstein "dairy cow". Dairy Cows are hardy and prolific, which makes them an excellent beginner ornamental isopod. However due to their protein-seeking behavior, hobbyists often recommend against keeping them with other isopod species — or as a cleanup crew member.
Despite being one of the most popular species currently in the hobby, their origin and taxonomy remain uncertain. Current taxonomy includes the "aff." designation, short for "species affinis", indicating that the specimen is an under-described species that has an affinity to, but is not identical to Porcellio laevis.
Appearance[edit | edit source]
Dairy Cow isopods reach 1.5 - 2.5 cm in size and are distinguished from other morphs by their coloration. Their body segments are white with large, asymmetrical black spots scattered throughout.
Common morphs include the standard "Dairy Cow", as well as "Milkback" and "Whiteout".
Reproduction[edit | edit source]
Dairy cows reproduce readily and quickly relative to other ornamental isopods. They do not require long to become established, and are known for multiplying quickly when provided ample sources of protein.
Care[edit | edit source]
Easy. Dairy Cows tolerate a fairly wide range of temperatures and humidity. Given adequate dietary protein, they will thrive.
Shopping List[edit | edit source]
Required:
- 12 qt (11.4L) or larger waterproof storage bin (e.g., ezystorage 11.4L Storage Box, Sterilite 12Qt Gasket Box)
- Organic potting soil (e.g., FoxFarm Happy Frog)
- Rotting hardwood chunks / orchid bark
- Crushed charcoal
- Shredded sphagnum moss
- Leaf litter
- Spray or misting bottle
- Mesh (120 mesh or finer recommended to prevent pests & escapes)
- Hot glue gun or Cyanoacrylate-based super glue
- Utility knife
Recommended:
- Protein-rich food, like dried minnows, fish flakes, or Repashy Bug Burger / Morning Wood.
- Cuttlebone
- Log or bark hides
- Scissors
Enclosure[edit | edit source]
The enclosure should include
- At least 4 inches (10 cm) of substrate
- Hardwood leaf litter for cover and foraging
- Hides consisting of hardwood logs or bark, or cork bark
- Calcium sources, like crushed or chunked limestone and cuttlebone
- A "wet" area at one end of enclosure consisting of damp, shredded Sphagnum moss
- A "dry" area at the opposite end with exposed substrate
- Mesh-covered vents cut into the sides of the bin, about 2"x2" in size to provide ventilation
Substrate[edit | edit source]
The enclosure should have at least 4 inches (10 cm) of substrate.
Mix:
- 1 gallon organic potting soil
- 1 gallon topsoil
Temperature[edit | edit source]
Temperature should remain between 70-80°F (21-27°C).
Humidity[edit | edit source]
Maintain humidity levels between 40-75%. This can be achieved by misting the "wet" sphagnum moss end of the enclosure at least weekly, ensuring it remains damp to the touch, but not dripping wet.
Hides[edit | edit source]
Hardwood pieces and bark, or cork bark should be added to the enclosure along with leaf litter and stones to provide cover.
Feeding & Supplementation[edit | edit source]
Diet[edit | edit source]
Dairy Cows prefer protein-rich foods, like dried minnows, fish flakes, and commercially prepared foods - like Repashy Bug Burger and Morning Wood.
References[edit | edit source]
{{#seo:|title=How to Care for Dairy Cow Isopods}} {{#seo:|keywords=Dairy Cow, isopod, pet, care, guide}} {{#seo:|description=Looking for information about how to care for Dairy Cow isopods? This expert guide includes information about Dairy Cow isopod setup, food, temperature, humidity, and care.}}