Blogs

How to Set Up a Bioactive Vivarium Step-by-Step
What is a Bioactive Vivarium?A bioactive vivarium is an enclosed space that mimics a natural ecosystem. Unlike a normal tank where you have to clean it out manually, a bioactive tank looks after itself. It uses living plants, soil, and micro-organisms to break down waste and keep the environment healthy.Step 1: The Drainage LayerThe very bottom of your tank needs a drainage layer. This is usually made of clay pebbles or hydrogranules. It stops the soil above from getting waterlogged and rotting. You can add a mesh barrier on top... Read more...
Flightless Fruit Fly Cultures - The Perfect Feeder
IntroductionFlightless Fruit Flies, often known as Drosophila hydei or Drosophila melanogaster, are the number one feeder insect for many small animals. If you keep poison frogs, small geckos, mantises, or spiders, you know how important a reliable food source is.Why Flightless?The best thing about these cultures is right in the name - they cannot fly! Normal fruit flies can be annoying, but these special flightless varieties only walk or jump. This means you can feed your pets without the risk of them escaping and buzzing around your house. They are... Read more...
Why You Need Springtails in Your Bioactive Setup
What are Springtails?Springtails are tiny, wingless insects that are essential for any bioactive enthusiast. They come in various colours, usually white, grey, or orange, and are incredibly active. If you are setting up a vivarium or terrarium, Springtails are the first thing you should add. They are often sold alongside Isopods as part of the "Clean Up Crew".What do Springtails do?The main job of Springtails is to break down waste. They feed on mould, fungi, decaying plant matter, and even animal faeces. In a closed ecosystem like a bioactive vivarium,... Read more...
How to Care for Dairy Cow Isopods | Complete Guide UK
IntroductionDairy Cow Isopods, scientifically known as Porcellio laevis, are one of the most popular species of isopods available today. Famous for their striking white and black patterns resembling a dairy cow, they are perfect for both beginners and experienced keepers. If you are looking to keep Dairy Cow Isopods or are searching for Dairy Cow Isopods for sale UK, this guide will tell you everything you need to know.Housing and EnclosureWhen setting up a home for your Dairy Cow Isopods, ventilation is key. You can use plastic tubs, glass terrariums... Read more...
The Ultimate Guide to Isopods for Sale UK
Welcome to the ultimate hub for Isopods in the UK! If you are looking for high-quality Isopods for sale UK, you have come to the right place. We specialise in breeding and supplying the best species for hobbyists, beginners, and enthusiasts across the entire country.Whether you are setting up a new vivarium, need a clean up crew UK, or just love collecting these fascinating creatures, we have everything you need right here. Why Dairy Cow Isopods Are The UK’s FavouriteWhen people ask us what the most popular type is, we always... Read more...
What Do Isopods Eat? Feeding Guide for Healthy Colonies
People always ask me, what exactly do you feed isopods? It seems simple but getting the diet right is the difference between a small colony and a massive booming one. I’ve been experimenting for ages and found the perfect mix to keep them breeding fast.First off, they get most of their food from their substrate. Leaf litter and rotting wood are their natural diet and they need that to graze on all the time. Oak, Beech and Birch leaves are the best. Don't use leaves from gardens that have been... Read more...
How to Stop Fungus Gnats in Isopod Tanks (Easy Fix)
Anyone who keeps isopods or bioactive setups has had to deal with Fungus Gnats at some point. Those little flying bugs are so annoying! They seem to appear out of nowhere and drive you crazy. But don’t worry, you don’t need to use harsh chemicals that might hurt your pods. I’ve got a simple method that works every time.The main reason they appear is because things are staying too wet on top. Gnats love laying their eggs in damp soil. The easiest fix is to let the top layer dry... Read more...
Why Dairy Cow Isopods Are So Popular In The UK
If you have been looking into isopods, you have definitely seen Dairy Cows everywhere. They are one of the most popular species right now in the UK hobby, and for good reason. I started keeping them a while back and they quickly became one of my favourites.They have this amazing pattern, white and grey splodges that look just like a Friesian cow, hence the name! But it’s not just about how they look, it’s about how easy they are to keep. They are honestly bulletproof. You don’t need to stress... Read more...
How to Create the Perfect Bioactive Isopod Tank Setup
Thinking about starting a bioactive setup? It’s actually easier than you think and looks so much better than a plain tank. I’ve set up quite a few cultures now, and there are a few key things that make all the difference.First things first, you need the right base. The substrate is super important because that’s where your isopods will live and breed. I always use a mix of organic top soil and leaf litter. It holds moisture well but doesn't go soggy, and it gives them loads to eat and... Read more...
Best Isopods for Leopard Gecko Tanks UK
If you own a Leopard Gecko, you’ve probably heard people talking about adding Isopods to the tank. But what are the best ones to use, and will they actually get along? I’ve been keeping invertebrates and reptiles for a while now, and after testing a few different species, I’ve found what works best.Basically, Isopods are nature’s little hoovers. They spend their whole lives eating leftover food, shed skin, poop and any waste. This keeps your substrate fresh for longer, stops bad smells and creates a much healthier environment. It turns... Read more...