I’m really wanting to get a new pet, but my only open terrarium is 16x8x10 with a mesh sliding lid. Does anyone know what can live comfortably in something this size? I already have some death-feigning beetles, so I’d like something different.
I’ve been thinking about maybe getting some isopods since they’d have plenty of space. I’m also interested in jumping spiders, tarantulas, and mantids, but not sure if there’s a species that would fit. Any ideas? Thanks in advance!
For mantids or jumping spiders, you really want a vertical setup, and I think even if you turn it on its side, it might still be too small for a mantis. However, it could work for a jumping spider if it’s a species that’s big enough not to slip through any of the ventilation holes. You could also try a smaller terrestrial tarantula that doesn’t grow too large or burrow much. Something like a Greenbottle Blue (GBB) could be a good beginner choice. They web up the whole space and tend to stay visible, which is nice!
@Bran
Oh, I hadn’t thought of putting it on its side! That could work for a jumping spider. Thanks for the tip!
Nope, I’d skip the jumping spider idea. They’ll be tough to keep in an enclosure that size, even if you turn it vertically. It’ll be hard to find and feed them in something that big. I keep mine in 4x4 or 4x8 enclosures max! For isopods, maybe go with a larger species like dairy cows, but make sure to keep them well-fed, or they might fight over resources. The bigger Porcellio species can get aggressive if they’re not getting enough food.
Honestly, I’d suggest a millipede instead. You get that cool look and easy care like isopods but only have one animal to worry about instead of a colony. I had a smoky oak millipede, and it was awesome!
@Oak
I thought about a millipede, but I just can’t handle all those legs and the big, wiggly body 