Dairy Cow Isopods (Porcellio laevis)

Dairy Cow Isopods (Porcellio laevis) are a selectively bred morph of the natural “milkback” form — but with striking, high-contrast spotting that gives them their iconic name. Large, energetic, and never shy about exploring or eating, they’re one of the most animated isopod species available. A typical adult reaches around ¾ inch, with some individuals approaching a full inch, making them 2–3× the size of common beginner isopods like Powder Oranges.

Appearance & Behavior

Dairy Cows bring movement and personality to any enclosure. Their patterning ranges from blue-gray to charcoal spotting over a white base — a natural, living version of a Dalmatian print. They’re exceptionally active, highly visible, and eager feeders. Once established, a colony becomes a constant display of motion under leaves, across wood, and around protein sources.

Raised Differently at Moore & More Bugs

Our Dairy Cows are intentionally raised for health, longevity, and stability.

• No overcrowding — colonies are split early to reduce stress and disease risk
• Handcrafted substrate — made to order from organic topsoil, hardwood components, charcoal, and processed oak (never pre-bagged pet-store “bioactive” soil)
• Balanced, nutrient-rich diet — leaf litter first, then protein supplements like krill, fish pellets, mushrooms, and seaweed
• Regular health checks — we visually inspect colonies for color, activity, and proper development

The result? Larger, stronger, faster-growing animals with healthier shells, better fertility, and more stable colony behavior.

Who Are These Ideal For?

Dairy Cows fit nearly every part of the hobby:

• Bioactive reptile vivariums (snakes, anoles, chameleons, skinks, geckos)
• Temperate & tropical terrariums
• Collectors who want a large, active species on display
• Beginners who want something hardy and fast-growing
• Hobbyists who want a supplemental feeder with higher calcium and iodine

They’re not recommended for:

• Arid enclosures
• Invertebrates that molt vulnerably (e.g., tarantulas)

Growth & Reproduction

Dairy Cows reproduce very quickly — among the fastest of the Porcellio species. A starter colony often needs a larger bin in 3–6 months, and a thriving group can scale into the hundreds within a year under proper care.

Real-World Benefits in Bioactive Systems

Established colonies:

• Break down shed skin, waste, and leftover food
• Reduce mold
• Oxygenate and improve soil structure
• Extend substrate life by months or years
• Add visible “living art” movement to enclosures

Why Keep Dairy Cows?

They’re large, bold, easy to care for, and genuinely fun to watch. Feeding time turns into a friendly feeding frenzy, hides become bustling micro-communities, and enclosures feel more alive. As Hananiah put it:

“If you’re a fan of art and nature, these create living artwork right in your home.”

What's Included:

• Live Dairy Cow Isopods (hand-counted)

• Vented deli cup with moss

• Live Arrival Guarantee (weather permitting; conditions apply)