Red Koi Isopods (Porcellionides pruinosus)

Red Koi isopods are the show-offs of the clean-up crew. With vibrant red, orange, and white marbling reminiscent of koi fish, these isopods bring eye-catching color and nonstop activity to any enclosure. They’re fast, hardy, and always busy—making them both beautiful and incredibly useful.

🌍 Origin

Porcellionides pruinosus originates from the Mediterranean region and is now found worldwide due to its adaptability. Red Koi is a selectively bred color morph prized for its bold coloration and strong genetics, combining visual appeal with the durability the species is known for.

🪴 Basic Care

Red Koi isopods are beginner-friendly and thrive in a wide range of setups.

• Humidity: Low to moderate with a moisture gradient

• Substrate: Well-draining bioactive mix with leaf litter, decaying wood, and calcium sources

• Temperature: 68–85°F

• Diet: Leaf litter, rotting wood, vegetables, fish food, protein sources, and calcium (cuttlebone or eggshells)

• Ventilation: Good airflow is important; they tolerate drier environments better than many isopods

They reproduce quickly and establish strong colonies, often becoming visible even during the day.

🧹 What They’re Known For

• Excellent clean-up crew for arid and semi-arid bioactive enclosures

• Efficient at breaking down waste, mold, and leftover food

• Popular in reptile and invertebrate setups

• Fast breeders—great for sustaining active enclosures

• Hardy and adaptable, making them very forgiving

⭐ Why Choose Red Koi?

• Stunning red, orange, and white coloration

• Combines beauty with function

• Great for beginners and experienced keepers

• Ideal for adding visual interest to bioactive habitats

Whether you’re building a functional clean-up crew or want a splash of color in your enclosure, Red Koi isopods offer the perfect blend of beauty, durability, and performance.