Bolivari Yellow Ghost

Bolivari Yellow Ghost Isopods (Porcellio bolivari)

Care Information

• Origin: Spain (Alicante)
• Temperature: 18–25°C
• Humidity: 45–70% (Low–Medium)
• Size: Up to 3 cm
• Difficulty Level: Medium
• Rarity: Rare

Product Overview

The Bolivari Yellow Ghost Isopod is a stunning and sought-after species, admired for its distinctive yellow highlights and soft, lemonade-toned coloration. Its unique appearance makes it a standout addition to any isopod collection.

Native to the dry regions of Alicante, Spain, this species thrives in arid, well-ventilated environments. Unlike many other isopods, it does not tolerate high humidity, making proper moisture control essential for its health and successful breeding.

With the right care, these isopods can grow up to 3 cm in length and become an active, beneficial part of your terrarium ecosystem.

Care Guide

Environment

To keep your Bolivari Yellow Ghost Isopods healthy and thriving:

• Use a well-ventilated terrarium to prevent stale air
• Maintain low to medium humidity (45–70%)
• Keep temperature stable between 18°C and 25°C
• Avoid direct sunlight to prevent overheating
• Add cork bark or hiding spots for climbing and shelter

Feeding

These isopods are natural decomposers and primarily feed on organic matter. A balanced diet includes:

• Leaf litter and rotting wood
• Vegetables and salad greens
• Banana leaves and lichens

Supplemental foods:

• Springtails
• Antarctic krill
• Pure spirulina
• Gammarus shrimp (protein source)

Calcium sources:

• Cuttlebone
• Limestone

Appearance & Behaviour

• Grows up to 3 cm, larger than many isopod species
• Features bright yellow markings on a broad, flat body
• Rolls into a ball when threatened
• Nocturnal – most active at night
• Plays a key role in nutrient cycling and soil health

Habitat Requirements

Bolivari Yellow Ghost Isopods naturally inhabit dry, calcium-rich environments. Replicating these conditions is crucial in captivity:

• Ensure proper airflow and ventilation
• Maintain a dry-to-moderate moisture gradient
• Avoid overly damp setups

Substrate Mix

A high-quality substrate is essential for their wellbeing. Use a mix of:

• Forest humus
• Flake soil

Enhance with:

• Dead wood
• Shell grit (for calcium)
• Feeding foliage
• Forest moss

Depth: Maintain 2–3 inches to allow natural burrowing behavior.

Important Note

While often considered easy pets, Bolivari Yellow Ghost Isopods are best suited for keepers with some experience due to their specific humidity and ventilation needs.