Isopod care in Kerala’s hot, humid climate
Kerala’s warm, humid weather is great for many isopods, but summer heat, monsoon mould and ants each need a little planning. Here’s what we’ve learnt keeping colonies in Ottapalam.
Choose species that suit the heat
Tropical species like Powder Orange, Dwarf White and Cubaris murina (Murina Orange, Papaya, Glacier) love Kerala’s climate. Cool-climate species like Gestroi and some Armadillidium prefer to stay below 26 °C, so they need the coolest spot in your home.
Beat the summer heat
- Keep boxes in the coolest room, low down near the floor, away from windows and direct sun.
- Avoid rooms under a tin or asbestos roof, which can get very hot in the afternoon.
- Don’t place boxes directly in front of an AC or fan, as this dries them out quickly.
- On very hot days, add a little extra water to the moist corner.
Monsoon: fight mould with airflow
During the monsoon, the air is already very humid. Water the boxes less, open the lid for a few minutes each day if you can, and feed smaller amounts so leftovers don’t rot. A springtail culture in every box is the best defence against mould.
Keep ants out
Ants are one of the biggest problems for isopod keepers in Kerala. Place your boxes on a shelf with each leg standing in a small dish of water, or draw a ring of petroleum jelly around the box or shelf legs. Check regularly, especially after rain.
Other pests
Small white mites and fungus gnats usually mean the box is too wet or has too much leftover food. Let it dry slightly, remove old food and add springtails.
With these simple habits, isopods do very well in Kerala homes all year round.
