Why Does One Half of My Isopod Look Different?
A two-toned isopod may be between the two stages of its normal molt. Learn why the rear half sheds first, what to observe, and when… Read More »Why Does One Half of My Isopod Look Different?
James
Hi my name is James, and I'm a biologist here at Ficarro Farms, a small family farm, feel free to ask me anything whether it's about isopods, or gardening!
Baby Isopods: What Mancae Look Like and How to Care for Them
Learn what isopod mancae are, how they leave the brood pouch, and how to protect tiny juveniles in a colony or classroom habitat.
Light vs. Dark Pill Bug Experiment: How to Test Phototaxis Fairly
A practical, scientifically careful guide to testing pill bug responses to light and darkness while controlling moisture, heat, shelter, side bias, and social behavior.
The Hidden Life of Pill Bugs: What Happens Beneath the Leaf Litter
Explore the hidden lives of pill bugs beneath the leaf litter—from moisture and decomposition to molting, reproduction, and social behavior.
Do Isopods Need Calcium? What Molting Research Actually Shows
Calcium is structural to an isopod’s cuticle, but not every bad molt proves a deficiency. Here is what research supports and how to apply it… Read More »Do Isopods Need Calcium? What Molting Research Actually Shows
Why Are My Red Wigglers Climbing the Sides of the Bin?
Red wigglers climbing a worm bin can signal excess moisture, low oxygen, overheating or a newly disturbed habitat. Learn what to check first.
How Long Should Isopods Rest After Shipping Before a Classroom Lab?
Learn why recently shipped pill bugs may need time to settle, how to plan their arrival, and when a classroom behavior test should begin.
What Size Container Do You Need for a Classroom Isopod Lab?
Choose a practical classroom isopod container by activity, group size, ventilation, and observation time—without overcrowding the animals or overbuying.
How Deep Should Isopod Substrate Be? A Classroom Experiment
There is not one honest substrate depth for every isopod species, container, substrate, and ventilation setup. A deeper layer can hold more water and allow… Read More »How Deep Should Isopod Substrate Be? A Classroom Experiment
How to Keep Red Wigglers Alive in a Classroom Over the Weekend
Most classroom worm bins do not need a complicated weekend routine. The goal is a stable habitat before Friday: moist bedding, airflow, moderate temperature, and… Read More »How to Keep Red Wigglers Alive in a Classroom Over the Weekend