Rathke's Woodlouse
Trachelipus rathkii
Rathke's woodlouse, Trachelipus rathkii, is a hardy, widespread flattened isopod up to 1.5 cm long, found in temperate European and North American habitats. Often confused with Porcellio scaber, it has five pairs of visible pleopodal lungs rather than two and a mottled grey or mud-brown colour, sometimes with dusty orange streaks. It is active and adaptable, living in damp grassland and among roots, but it does not tolerate hot, stagnant tropical conditions.
Ambiente
Terrestre
Umidade
60 - 80 %
Temperatura diurna
20 - 25 °C
Temperatura noturna
18 - 21 °C
Descrição da espécie
Geographical Origin and Habitat: Invasive temperate European species, cosmopolitan par excellence in cold regions in North America. It inhabits soggy wet grassy fields, agricultural lands, roadsides under rocks and old decaying wooden boards.
Taxonomy and Genetics: Family Trachelipodidae. (The Five-Lung Woodlouse). Often mistaken for the very widespread and coarse Porcellio scaber due to the equally flattened and rough body, unable to roll up (does not volvation). However, the Trachelipus possesses an incredible respiratory adaptation: the lower abdomen is dotted with white spots (5 pairs of pseudotracheal lungs against the 2 of the Porcellio), allowing it a frightening agility and resistance in airy and humid woodland environments.
Behavior and Habits: Terrified crawling dusty raiders. Neurotic and runaway. Slower than the Philoscia muscorum but equally phobic of light. If a field stone is lifted, the Trachelipus disperse chaotically, often playing dead for a few moments before resuming running in all directions towards the shade. They do not dig deep tunnels but slip into the asphyctic crevices of the grassy mud in lethargy.
Morphology: Elongated and flattened asphyxiating oval, granular and opaque (Up to 0.6 inches / 1.5 cm). Without the barrel armor of the Cubaris. The coloration is highly variable but always rustic: mottled, spotted or calico. Earth Brown, dusty Ash Gray dominate, with faded spots of Brick Orange along the lateral lobes and pale streaks. The five ventral lungs are the infallible distinguishing mark. Rough bodies and marked lobes pale.
Cuidado, criação e companheiros de tanque
Terrarium Setup: Guidance about terrarium setup for Trachelipus rathkii must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Lighting and Heating: Guidance about lighting and heating for Trachelipus rathkii must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Humidity and Hydration: Guidance about humidity and hydration for Trachelipus rathkii must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Feeding and Supplementation: Guidance about feeding and supplementation for Trachelipus rathkii must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Compatibility and Coexistence: Guidance about compatibility and coexistence for Trachelipus rathkii must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Health and Common Diseases: Guidance about health and common diseases for Trachelipus rathkii must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Origem e distribuição geográfica
Invasive temperate European species, cosmopolitan par excellence in cold regions in North America. It inhabits soggy wet grassy fields, agricultural lands, roadsides under rocks and old decaying wooden boards.
Origem
Cosmopolita ou apresentadoAmérica Central e CaribeAmérica do NorteEuropa, Mediterrâneo e Ásia Ocidental
Perfil de invertebrados terrestres
- Dieta
- Detritivore
- Trachelipus rathkii primarily feeds on decomposing organic matter such as leaf litter and rotting wood. They require a constant supply of calcium, which can be provided through cuttlebone or specialized supplements. Supplemental foods like vegetables, fish flakes, or commercial isopod diets should be offered regularly. Ensuring a varied diet will promote healthy growth and vibrant coloration. Always remove uneaten food to prevent mold growth and maintain a clean environment.
- Tamanho adulto
- 1.5 cm
- Estilo de vida/Microhabitat
- Terrestrial
- Trachelipus rathkii leads a terrestrial and fossorial lifestyle, spending much of its time on or slightly below the forest floor. They play a crucial role in their ecosystem by recycling nutrients through the consumption of decaying plant matter. A proper enclosure should offer a deep, moisture-retaining substrate gradient to allow for natural burrowing. They thrive in environments that mimic the damp, rich soil of a temperate or tropical forest. Consistent microclimates within the habitat are essential for their long-term health.
- Ciclo de atividades
- Nocturnal
- This species is primarily nocturnal and crepuscular, becoming most active during the evening and night. During the day, Trachelipus rathkii typically remains hidden under debris to conserve moisture and avoid predators. In terrariums with lower light levels or high humidity, they may occasionally venture out during daylight hours. Their activity level is highly dependent on environmental moisture; if it becomes too dry, they will burrow deeper. Providing a distinct day-night light cycle helps maintain their natural rhythm.
- Socialidade
- Gregarious
- While they do happily coexist in large numbers within the same terrarium, they do not display the intense, tightly packed congregational clustering seen in pillbugs. They are somewhat independent wanderers that will naturally gather in high densities only in microhabitats that offer the ideal balance of moisture and food availability.
- Reprodução
- Marsupial
- Reproduction in Trachelipus rathkii occurs when environmental conditions like temperature and humidity are optimal. Females carry the developing eggs in a specialized brood pouch called a marsupium on their underside. Once fully developed, the young emerge as fully formed miniature versions of the adults, known as mancae. The breeding rate can be quite prolific under ideal captive conditions. Providing ample hiding spots and proper nutrition will encourage successful breeding colonies.
- Venenoso
- No
- Tolerância de tratamento
- Display only
- Handling Trachelipus rathkii should be done with extreme care due to their delicate exoskeleton. It is generally best to observe them rather than handle them frequently, as the oils and salts on human skin can be harmful. If they must be moved, gently coax them into a small container using a soft brush or a piece of leaf litter. Avoid dropping them, as a fall from even a small height can cause fatal injuries. Their fast movements or tendency to roll up can also make secure handling difficult.
- Brumação
- Não obrigatório
- Depending on their native climate, Trachelipus rathkii may experience a period of reduced activity or diapause during cooler months. In captivity, true brumation is usually unnecessary if temperatures are kept stable year-round. However, slight seasonal temperature drops can occasionally stimulate breeding in some temperate species. Ensure that the enclosure does not freeze and maintains adequate moisture even during cooler periods. Always monitor the colony closely if attempting to cycle their environmental temperatures.
- Muda
- Periodic
- As they grow, Trachelipus rathkii must shed their exoskeleton in a process called molting. Interestingly, isopods molt in two separate stages: first shedding the posterior half, and then the anterior half a few days later. During this time, they are highly vulnerable and require elevated humidity to shed successfully. They will typically consume their old exoskeleton to reclaim valuable calcium and nutrients. It is crucial to provide adequate hiding spots so they can molt safely away from colony mates.
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