Question: Best isopods for cleaning up after terrestrial newts and salamanders?

[frogenjoyer]

Hi everyone,

I'm starting a couple new vivariums for some newts and salamanders, and have a few questions about my isopods. I currently have Armadillidium gestroi, Armadillidium klugii, and Porcellio laevis cultures. I understand the dairy cows may not be good for amphibians because they might bite them, so I'm avoiding using Porcellio species. Should I use the Armadillidium species, or would dwarf isopods be better for cleaning purposes? Can I do dwarf AND Armadillidium or will the larger Armadillidium predate the dwarfs? Let me know your thoughts and experiences!

Thank you,
Matt

 

[Herpin Man]

The only isopods that are appropriate for keeping with small amphibians are the dwarfs. Larger species can overwhelm and annoy (or worse) small amphibians.

 

[AlexWentworth]

I've had great success using Black pearl isopods in my salamander enclosures. They handle waste efficiently and seem to thrive in the damp conditions without overrunning the space. Unlike some other isopods, they don’t overwhelm the habitat or become a nuisance. Plus, they provide a natural cleanup crew that helps maintain a healthier environment. My salamanders don’t bother them much, so they keep doing their job without interference.

 

[JM29]

Porcellio aren't a problem, even for tiny caudates.
Of course, these tiny caudates cannot eat adult Porcellio, but, in adequate conditions, these bugs breed well and the newborn woodlice are well eaten.

(gravid female Porcellio holding babies)

Of course, bigger terrestrial caudates will eat adult Porcellio without any problems ; they may even bring a fair amount of Calcium.