Articles (Not Isopod Related)

Red Pak Chong Isopods (Cubaris sp.) Red Pak Chong isopods are one of the most beautiful and sought after colour morphs in the isopod community. These little crustaceans have a deep red body with grey, orange and rusty accents, they are a real gem for any bioactive enclosure. Named after the Pak Chong district in Thailand where they originate, these isopods are a selectively bred colour mutation that has become highly prized among enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Info Origin: Thailand - Pak Chong District Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. 'Red Pak Chong' Care level: Medium Temp range: 75℉ - 80℉ (24℃ - 27℃) Size: ~ 1.5 cm Rarity: Super Rare Humidity: 70% - 80% (medium-high) Diet: Leaf litter, vegetables, fish food, decaying wood Supplements: Cuttlebone, dried shrimp, calcium powder Red Pak Chong Isopods These isopods come from the limestone caves and karst formations of the Pak Chong district in Thailand, where they have adapted to live in humid, tropical conditions. Red Pak Chong isopods are a colour mutation of the classic Pak Chong lineage, with red faces and tail sections and white highlights along their sides. This selective breeding has produced one of the most beautiful isopods in the hobby today. Red Pak Chong is special because it shares the same genetic lineage as the famous Cubaris sp. "Cherry Blossom" variety. These hardy isopods are a great stepping stone for keepers who want to move from beginner species to more challenging Cubaris varieties like Rubber Duckies and other premium morphs. They have moderate care requirements and are beautiful, so perfect for intermediate keepers. Characteristics of Red Pak Chong Isopods Deep red body with grey, orange and rusty accents Red faces and tail sections with white side highlights Robust size up to 1.5 cm Hardy, can tolerate some environmental fluctuations Moderate breeding rate, 6-12 mancae every 1-2 months* Nocturnal but active during the day during feeding Great bioactive cleanup crew Can conglobate (roll into a ball) when threatened Lively and social behaviour Feeding Red Pak Chong Isopods Red Pak Chong isopods are detritivores and prefer high quality organic matter and supplements. Provide a base diet of pesticide free leaf litter, oak, beech and magnolia leaves. They love protein rich food and need protein supplements at least twice a week to support their colour and breeding. Offer small amounts of fresh vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes and leafy greens. High quality fish food, dried shrimp and isopod diets like Repashy Morning Wood are great protein sources. Calcium supplementation through cuttlebone, crushed eggshells or limestone powder is essential for proper exoskeleton development and to maintain their colours. Red Pak Chongs love freeze dried vegetables and occasional treats of decaying white wood. Remove any uneaten food within 24 hours to prevent mould and maintain optimal enclosure conditions. Natural Habitat In their native Thai habitat, Red Pak Chong isopods live in the humid limestone caves and karst formations of the Pak Chong region. These environments provide consistent high humidity, stable temperatures and plenty of food. The caves protect them from temperature extremes while maintaining the moisture levels these tropical isopods need to survive. Understanding their cave dwelling origins is key to successful captive care as these isopods have evolved to live in low light, high humidity and good air circulation environments. Artificial Habitat for Red Pak Chong Isopods Create an optimal environment with a well ventilated enclosure and deep substrate to accommodate their natural burrowing behaviour. Keep temperatures between 75-80℉ (24-27℃) and humidity 70-80%. Provide good ventilation while preserving humidity by adding ventilation holes to only half of the enclosure, creating air circulation without compromising the humid microclimate. Add plenty of hiding spots with cork bark, moss and dried leaves. Sphagnum moss is essential for humidity and should never be allowed to dry completely. Create a moisture gradient with both damp and slightly drier areas, so the isopods can self regulate their moisture needs.Red Pak Chongs love a complex environment with multiple levels and plenty of space to explore. The enclosure should have both vertical and horizontal hiding spots for their active nature. Preferred Substrate Mix for Red Pak Chong Isopods The ideal substrate is a mix of good moisture retention, drainage and nutrition. Use a base mix of organic potting soil (pesticide free), coconut coir and sphagnum moss in a 2:1:1 ratio. Add earthworm castings for nutrition and a small amount of orchid bark for structure and drainage. Keep the substrate depth at least 4 inches to accommodate their burrowing behaviour. Top with a thick layer of mixed leaf litter and pieces of decaying white wood. Add cork bark pieces and make sure there is moss coverage all over the substrate surface. Add limestone powder or crushed cuttlebone to the substrate mix for readily available calcium sources. The substrate should be consistently moist but never waterlogged, with the moisture level slightly higher than what most other isopod species require. This balanced mix supports their tropical origins and provides all the nutrients they need to maintain their red colour and healthy breeding colonies.

Isopod Mystery Box: Curated Surprises for Every Hobbyist Beautiful healthy isopods delivered to your door — with the excitement of not knowing exactly which species you’ll discover until you open the box. PostPods mystery boxes contain carefully selected isopods from different species, chosen by experienced breeders to give you fantastic value while introducing you to these fascinating invertebrates. Whether you’re building your first bioactive terrarium or expanding an established collection, our mystery boxes deliver more pods for your money than buying individual species. What Makes Our Mystery Boxes Special Guaranteed fantastic value — retail worth exceeds what you spend Beautiful healthy pods from 1-8 different species per box Carefully wrapped with specialized packaging for live arrival Mix of common and interesting isopods you might not find elsewhere Fast delivery with live arrival guarantee Perfect for Every Experience Level New to isopods? Our boxes include beginner friendly pets that adapt to almost all terrains and accommodate basic care requirements. These low maintenance pets are excellent for those just starting their invertebrate journey. Experienced collector? Request more challenging species in your order note. We stock rare morphs and interesting isopods that recently gained popularity among dedicated hobbyists. What You Might Discover Isopods present worldwide with wide distribution geographically — from deserts to mountains, these small creatures have adapted to even the harshest conditions. Your mystery box could include: Dairy cow white pods with distinctive black and white patterns Colorful morphs that add visual interest to any setup Fast breeding species that establish colonies quickly Unique varieties from distinctive places around the world Size varies significantly between species — some remain relatively smaller while others can reach half a meter in specialized conditions. All our pods are generally small creatures perfect for terrarium life. How Our Mystery Boxes Work Each box contains one batch of carefully selected isopods, packed to survive the journey to your door. We accommodate special requests when possible — just leave a note about your preferences, existing collection, or intended use. Delivery takes approximately two weeks depending on your location and our current stock levels. Every shipment includes care guidance to help your tiny animals thrive in their new environment. Value That Makes Sense Mystery boxes offer a great value way to build your collection without the significant amount you’d spend buying individual species. Instead of researching each variety separately, let our breeders surprise you with a mix that represents fantastic value. Many hobbyists prefer mystery boxes because they: Discover species they wouldn’t normally choose Get more animals for less money Experience the excitement of unboxing surprises Build diverse colonies for breeding projects The PostPods Difference We understand that these are living animals, not just products. Each isopod is selected for health and vitality, ensuring you receive beautiful healthy isopods that will thrive and potentially breed in your care. Our breeders have spent ages perfecting packaging methods that accommodate the needs of different species during transport. From moisture control to temperature management, every detail helps your pods arrive ready to explore their new habitat. Ready to Start Your Collection? Whether you’re setting up your first terrarium or adding to an established collection, PostPods mystery boxes deliver the excitement of discovery with the confidence of quality. These fantastic invertebrates will interact with their environment, help process organic matter, and potentially provide you with breeding stock for future projects. Browse our mystery box selection and experience the surprise of not knowing which beautiful species will arrive at your door.

Crabby Isopods (Cubaris sp.): The Captivating Cave Dwellers Crabby Isopods are an extraordinary species of Cubaris that have captured the hearts of isopod enthusiasts worldwide. Originating from the mysterious limestone caves of Thailand, these remarkable crustaceans bring a unique charm to any terrarium or bioactive setup. Their distinctive appearance and fascinating behaviour make them a prized addition to any serious collector's menagerie. Species Overview Place of Origin: Thailand Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Arthropoda Subphylum: Crustacea Order: Isopoda Family: Armadillidiidae Genus: Cubaris Species: Cubaris sp. "Crabby" Key Care Requirements Maintenance Effort: Medium Ideal Temperature Range: 72°F-80°F (22°C-27°C) Reproduction Rate: Slow to Moderate Ventilation: High General Size: 15-18mm Rarity Level: Rare Humidity Range: 70%-80% Preferred Diet: Leaf litter, vegetables, protein supplements Essential Supplements: Limestone, cuttlefish bone, calcium powder Natural Habitat and Behaviour In their native Thailand, Crabby Isopods inhabit the cool, humid environment of limestone caves and karst formations. These underground sanctuaries provide the perfect combination of high humidity, stable temperatures, and abundant calcium sources that these remarkable creatures require to thrive. Like most Cubaris species, Crabby Isopods are naturally shy and secretive creatures. They spend much of their time burrowing through substrate layers and hiding beneath cork bark, emerging primarily during nighttime hours to forage for food. This fossorial behaviour makes them excellent candidates for bioactive vivarium setups where they can fulfil their natural role as ecosystem engineers. Physical Characteristics These medium-sized isopods display the characteristic charm that has made Cubaris species so popular among collectors. Their robust exoskeleton provides protection whilst their distinctive colouration helps them blend seamlessly into their cave environment. Like other members of the Armadillidiidae family, they possess the ability to roll into a protective ball when threatened, earning them the classification as true "pill bugs". Adult Crabby Isopods typically reach 15-18mm in length, making them substantial enough to observe their fascinating behaviours whilst remaining manageable in captive environments. Their segmented bodies and prominent antennae give them an endearing appearance that has captivated hobbyists worldwide. Diet and Nutrition As natural detritivores, Crabby Isopods play a crucial ecological role in breaking down organic matter. In captivity, their diet should consist primarily of aged leaf litter and decaying hardwood, which form the foundation of their nutritional needs. Understanding their feeding habits is essential for maintaining a healthy colony. Supplement their natural diet with small portions of organic vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and squash. High-quality protein sources like fish flakes, dried shrimp, or specialised isopod pellets should be offered 2-3 times per week to support healthy moulting and reproduction. Calcium supplementation is absolutely critical for Crabby Isopods. Provide limestone chunks, powdered calcium, cuttlefish bone, or crushed eggshells to replicate the calcium-rich environment of their natural limestone caves. This mineral supplementation supports proper exoskeleton development and successful moulting cycles. Creating the Perfect Enclosure Successfully keeping Crabby Isopods requires replicating their natural cave environment. Start with a well-ventilated plastic container of at least 6-quart capacity for a starter culture. Proper ventilation is essential - create multiple airflow holes covered with fine mesh to maintain air circulation whilst preventing escapes. The substrate should be at least 6 inches deep to accommodate their burrowing behaviour. Use a moisture-retentive mix combining organic compost, leaf mould, and decomposed hardwood. Add a layer of sphagnum moss in one section to create humidity gradients and hiding opportunities. Furnish the enclosure with cork bark pieces, limestone chunks, and abundant leaf litter. These elements serve multiple purposes: providing hiding spots, creating microclimates, offering food sources, and supplying essential calcium. The setup should mimic the layered environment of their natural cave habitat. Temperature and Humidity Management Maintain temperatures between 72-80°F (22-27°C) to keep your Crabby Isopods active and healthy. Avoid dramatic temperature fluctuations, as these can stress the colony and impact reproduction rates. A consistent warm environment encourages natural behaviours and steady growth. High humidity levels of 70-80% are essential, but ensure adequate ventilation to prevent stagnant air and mould issues. Monitor moisture levels carefully - the substrate should feel damp but never waterlogged. Create a moisture gradient with one end slightly drier to give isopods options for thermoregulation. Breeding and Colony Development Crabby Isopods reproduce at a moderate pace once established, typically producing small broods of 5-15 offspring. Females carry their eggs in a marsupium (brood pouch) for approximately 4-6 weeks before releasing miniature versions of the adults called mancae. Successful breeding requires stable conditions, adequate nutrition, and minimal disturbance. Young isopods remain with their mother for several weeks, receiving nourishment and protection during their vulnerable early stages. Building a thriving colony takes patience, but established cultures can provide years of enjoyment. Care Difficulty and Considerations Crabby Isopods are classified as medium-difficulty species, making them suitable for keepers with some prior isopod experience. They require more attention to environmental parameters than beginner species but are more forgiving than the most challenging Cubaris varieties. Success with this species depends on maintaining consistent conditions, providing proper nutrition, and understanding their shy nature. They prefer minimal handling and disturbance, thriving best when left to establish their own routines within a well-designed habitat. For newcomers to the hobby, consider starting with beginner-friendly species before advancing to these more specialised Cubaris varieties. However, dedicated keepers who research proper care techniques will find Crabby Isopods to be rewarding and fascinating terrarium inhabitants. Why Choose Crabby Isopods? These remarkable creatures offer a unique combination of beauty, behaviour, and biological function that makes them standout additions to any collection. Their role as bioactive cleanup crew members makes them invaluable in naturalistic setups, where they continuously work to process organic waste and maintain healthy substrate conditions. Beyond their practical benefits, Crabby Isopods provide endless opportunities for observation and study. Their complex social behaviours, moulting cycles, and reproductive strategies offer insights into the fascinating world of terrestrial crustaceans. Whether you're selecting species for your collection or seeking unique additions to your terrarium, Crabby Isopods represent an excellent choice for dedicated enthusiasts ready to provide the specialised care these remarkable creatures deserve. Shipping Information Isopods are posted Monday to Thursday using Royal Mail's next day by 1pm service Plus 20% overcount sent with every order 24/7 live chat available - We are always here and happy to chat! (subject to sleeping) Helpful Resources Cubaris Isopod Care: A Comprehensive Guide What Do Woodlice Eat? Top Foods and Feeding Habits Explained Top Isopod Species for Your Vivarium How to Choose the Right Isopod Species Best Isopods for Beginners (UK Edition)

Though the world of isopods is filled with various species, something about Milky Way Isopods makes them captivating keepers and hobbyists. One outstanding feature that makes them adored by isopod lovers is their speckled exoskeleton, which imitates a starry night sky. It is nothing less than an illusion that makes you keep admiring them. Other than that, Milky Way Isopods are easy to maintain and involve no hassles like some other species do. If you are a beginner, you will find them easy to handle. A Glimpse Origin: UK (Jennifer Gosling) Scientific Name: Armadillidium gestroi Difficulty: Easy Temperature: 20-24C Rarity: Not rare Size: Up to 1.5 inches Humidity: 60-80% Favourable Foods: Vegetable scraps, leaf litter, rotten hardwoods, cuttlebone, eggshells, oyster shells. An Overview Milky Way Isopods are land-dwelling isopods which were first successfully isolated and developed by Jennifer Gosling in the UK. But you can now find them in other regions due to trading among keepers. These isopods are exotic because of their coloration and patterns, which are hard to find in other species. Their speckled exoskeleton makes them look attractive and appealing to keepers. Belonging to the Armadillidiidae family, this species is known precisely for its unique self-defense mechanism called conglobation. A mechanism allows them to curve into a ball to keep themselves from attacking their soft bellies. They usually do this in the wild, but you can also see this behavior in captivity if they are threatened. Compared to other isopods, Milky Way Isopods are much bigger. They grow up to 1.5 inches long and can easily adapt to captive environments. Basic Care You cannot expect your isopods to live healthily unless you take care of them properly. Here are the key aspects of their care: Use a large container with enough space for your isopods to roam freely and build a colony when they breed. You can use plastic or glass terrariums; the choice is yours. To thrive without correct humidity and temperature is almost impossible for them, making it crucial for you that levels don’t fluctuate much; otherwise, it can cause problems. Milky Way Isopods are found in humid areas, which means you must create a similar setup in captivity as well. Mist the terrarium regularly, and everything should be fine. Since they are nocturnal, they don’t need special lighting. Just an ambient room light is sufficient for them to thrive. Milky Way Isopods: Feeding Milky Way Isopods are not different when it concerns their diet. Just like the majority of species, they, too, love to feed on decaying organic matter. To keep their bellies happy, feed them rotting leaves from hardwood trees like oak or beech. Not just their happy meal, but these also contain nutrients essential for their development. Veggies like carrots, zucchini, or potatoes also add to their better health and well-being.  Appearance & Behaviour Milky Way Isopods are one of the most attractive species. The patterns they have sprinkled on their bodies create a unique look. Their appearance and behavior make them a highly sought-after species in the isopod-keeping. Milky Way Isopods are most active at night when the sun goes down, and it is the perfect time to explore their surroundings. They are social creatures and prefer to live in colonies like other isopods do. Milky Way Isopods: Habitat Milky Way Isopods need a stable and safe environment to live and breed peacefully without fear. You can create a similar setup by adding moist areas in their habitat. For this, use rich organic matter like leaf litter and decaying wood that are found in forest floors naturally. Also, add a lot of hiding places where they can seek shelter or rest when not active. Substrate Mix Be it Milky Way Isopods or any other species, they don’t do well without a good substrate mix. This is why you should pay more attention to this aspect and ready a proper substrate mix. For the base layer, use coconut coir and organic potting soil as they encourage burrowing behaviors. For moisture retention, incorporate sphagnum moss to maintain the necessary humidity levels and provide additional foraging material. You can also add leaf litter and calcium sources to complete the setup.

Troglodillo Sunset Isopod is one unusual and exotic isopod that is native to Thailand. These beautiful and flat isopods have a yellow face that can sometimes be orange, too. The back colour of the Troglodillo Sunset Isopods can range from dark orange to dark brown. They are precious pets that were previously known as the Sunset Queen. The Troglodillo Sunset Isopods are a beginner-friendly option for first-time isopod collectors. These clean-up crew members thrive in medium-humidity environments.  A Glimpse Origin: Thailand Scientific Name: Troglodillo sp. Difficulty: Low Rarity: High Temperature: 65 to 75℉ Size: 12 mm - 20 mm Humidity: Medium To High Favourable Foods: Decaying organic matter, rotting white wood, forest moss An Overview Troglodillo Sunset Isopods make interesting and beloved pets that are rare to find. These Troglodillo isopods are Thai species characterized by their unique yellow, orange, and dark brown colour combination.    These Thailand origin isopods have a somewhat flat appearance. These bright and elegant pets were previously called the Sunset Queen. These easy to keep and easy to breed isopods are medium body species that can grow from 12 mm to 20 mm in size.    Being a dark cave-like environment thrivers, the Troglodillo Sunset Isopods need a terrarium setup with medium to high level of humidity along with plenty of hiding spaces. Higher temperatures can stress the Troglodillo Sunset Isopods and even lead to death.    The Troglodillo Sunset Isopods can make ideal pets because of their amiable and photogenic appearance that resembles the colours of sunset. Feeding the Troglodillo Sunset Isopods is not difficult either. These detrivores can be fed decaying organic matter, calcium, and forest moss.    The Troglodillo Sunset Isopods are staple food eaters. They love eating decaying leaves of walnut and black berry. The stunning and rare species are available in various color combinations of yellow, orange, and dark brown.  Basic Care You can use the following instructions and tips to provide the best care to the Troglodillo Sunset Isopods. You can use an enclosure setup with 50 to 70 per cent humidity to house the Troglodillo Sunset Isopods.  Maintain the container’s temperature within 65 to 75℉.  It is essential to ensure medium to high humidity within the enclosure.  Don’t keep the enclosure in direct light.  Make use of lichen and forest moss to meet the Troglodillo Sunset Isopods. You can give them a protein-based diet twice a week.  Feeding Troglodillo Sunset Isopods are primarily detrivores. These isopods can be fed rotting white wood and decaying leaves. Troglodillo Sunset Isopods can feed on protein sources from small animals as well as fresh vegetables for hydration. They are fond of sweet fruits and dried flowers. These Troglodillo isopods consume oyster seashells and cuttlebone. They also feed on the excrement of bats and pieces of charcoal. Appearance And Behaviour Troglodillo Sunset Isopods thrive in medium to high humid environments.  They can be a suitable choice for beginners because they are easy to keep as well as easy to breed.  These Troglodillo isopods need leaf litter and flat bark cover in order to thrive in the best way.  These Troglodillo isopods have a somewhat flattened appearance.  They have yellow face that can also be orange sometimes. The Troglodillo Sunset Isopods have dark orange to dark brown bodies. Habitat The Troglodillo Sunset Isopods is a species that adores staying active at night. The Trogodillo isopod owners can keep their bioactive terrarium setup moist with the help of rotting white wood and pieces of moss. Substrate Mix The Troglodillo Sunset Isopods will need a substrate mix with decaying leaves and rotten white wood. You can add forest moss and calcium carbonate inside the terrarium. A great substrate mix for Trogodillo Sunset Isopods can also include rocks and bone pieces. 

The Pink Panda King Isopods are an eye-catching species, known for their vibrant pink and white coloration. A rare and unique addition to any collection, these isopods are popular among hobbyists for their distinctive appearance and relatively easy care requirements. Ideal for bioactive enclosures, they thrive in humid environments and play an important role in maintaining the ecosystem by breaking down organic matter. Their captivating look and low maintenance make them a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced isopod enthusiasts. Insight Place of Origin: Vietnam Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. 'Panda King' Maintenance Effort:Easy Ideal Temperature Range: 70℉ - 80℉ General Size:  ~ 15mm Rareness: Low to Medium Humidity Range: 70% - 80% Preferred Diet: Fruit, vegetables, fish food  Supplements in Addition: Cuttlebone, eggshells Panda King Isopods: Introduction These isopods are generally observed in limestone caves and belong to central and northern parts of Vietnam. These species prefer to be in an environment which is humid. Isopods of length approximately 1.5 cm are seen generally. They play a major role in the ecosystem balancing, by feeding on the decaying plants and rotting wood. They supply nutrients to the soil by consuming the decaying matter, maintaining the balance of required nutrients in soil. Characteristics of Panda King Isopods These critters have black and white colour exoskeletons. They grow up to 1.5 cm in length.  Their striking and adorable features make them one of the most sought-after isopods. They are easy to care for and require minimum maintenance. They are beginner-friendly. They are nocturnal in nature. They breed rapidly once established in their habitat. They are detritivores in nature. It has a soft exoskeleton and is used to feed poison dart frogs and other small animals. Vegetables, greens, and fish food are good for maintaining nutrition. The consumption of calcium for these isopods is a bit higher than other isopod species. Feeding These isopods feed on almost all types of food. They are essentially scavengers and feed on organic waste. However, during confinement in a cage, it is imperative to offer optimal nutrition. They can be supplemented with vegetables, greens, rotten leaves, or even wood. For calcium and protein, dried shrimp, fish food, cuttlebone, and egg shells are great for these species growth and development. Calcium powder is also good to give as a substitute.  Most isopod owners make the mistake of overfeeding the isopods. Overfeeding attracts pests into their enclosure. Therefore, it is important to feed the necessary quantity of food.  Natural Habitat Panda King isopods live in limestone caves and taverns. These species are commonly found in the central and northern parts of Thailand. In this region, caves are abundant. The caves are dark and humid; therefore, they are suitable for the isopods.  Panda King isopods are scavengers. They are also found among rotting leaves, fruits and vegetables. These species like to live in dark areas. They are shy in nature and like to burrow and hide. It is necessary to understand their natural habitat to build an artificial habitat for these isopods. Panda King Isopods: Breeding Panda King isopods are active species ready to reproduce unless acclimated to their surroundings.  Once they adapt to their surroundings, they start producing many offspring.  These isopods have a distinct mating ritual where the male isopods transfer sperm into the female's pleopods. The offspring hatch after six weeks after the eggs are attached to a firm surface. These offspring stay close to their mother, thus forming a small colony. Artificial Habitat of Panda King Isopods Panda King isopods thrive in humid environments. They are native to the tropical climates of Asia and need moisture to stay hydrated. Keep them in a small box to help them acclimate to a new environment. Once they're comfortable, transfer them to a plastic box with ventilation. Use deep bedding, including materials like old wood, dried leaves, and moss, for a cosy habitat.  It is necessary to prevent excess moisture as they may attract pests like mold and fruit flies. To combat this, adding springtails will help keep the environment clean and free of unwanted guests. It's important to keep the humidity right for the well-being of these isopods so they have a comfortable and healthy place to live. So, with proper care and attention to their habitat, you can enjoy the delightful presence of Panda King isopods in your home. Tank Mates for Pink Panda King Isopods Panda King isopods like to live in a highly humid environment. Therefore, pairing them with similar invertebrates that appreciate humidity is best.  It is necessary that tankmates for the isopods should be from the same region as the Panda King. Therefore, invertebrates like snails are the best tank mates in terrarium and vivarium settings. Another species that is suitable to be paired with is springtails. These creatures, when together, will prevent any kinds of pests and will keep the bioactive clean. Preferred Substrate Mixture for Pink Panda King Isopods A perfect substrate blend for Panda King Isopods is one that is deep, and also holds a lot of moisture. Use a small batch of coco coir, sphagnum moss, and orchid bark for the isopods, with the substrate depth reaching approximately 4 inches for burrowing.  Magnolia leaves enhance the habitat further, contributing to moisture retention and serving as excellent shelters for Panda King Isopods and their offspring. To mimic their natural surroundings, incorporate cork bark, dried oak leaves, and other elements into the enclosure. Wooden bark pieces are added to provide hiding spots, and dried leaves are added as food and for aesthetics. Sphagnum moss helps with moisture retention, which is a crucial factor for Panda King Isopods thriving in the environment. Although ventilation is necessary, it should be minimal to maintain the desired humidity gradient within the substrate. It should have both damp and dry areas. For nutrition, add earthworm castings and limestone powder to replicate their native habitat. This all-rounder substrate mix establishes a solid foundation, offering both sustenance and hydration to the isopods. Striking a balance between the various elements encourages natural behaviours and supports the physical health of Panda King Isopods in captivity. It allows them to thrive in an artificial environment that mimics the conditions of their natural habitat.

If you are a fan of unique pets or love discovering nature’s tiny wonders, Rubber Bee isopods will surely grab your attention because they are colorful and lovely. With their striking appearance and armored bodies, they stand apart from other species and give you a chance to own a pet so rare that you cannot find it in the wild anywhere else but Thailand, the origin country. Rubber Bee Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Thailand Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. Rarity: Rare Difficulty Level: Moderate Temperature: 21-27°C Size: Up to 15 mm Humidity: 70-80% Favorite Foods: Rotting wood, Decaying leaf litter, cork bark, lichen, moss, and gammarus shrimp An Overview Rubber Bees otherwise named as Rubber Ducky isopods are small, colorful creatures native to Thailand. Popular for the yellow-and-black markings on their bodies, it also sets them apart from other species in the region. For being a land ispods, the Rubber Bee has moderate care requirements, and it means that it need of more attention than entry-level species and need an experienced care-taker.  To have them as your pet translates to hard work and start with creating a bioactive terrarium followed with an ideal environment mimicking their natural habitat in the wild. These isopods are colorful and fun to watch, making them a great addition to any setup. Rubber Bee Isopods: Basic Care Here are some basic care tips to get you started with your journey as a keeper: Like other isopods, Rubber Bees cannot tolerate high temperatures and may become ill if the temperature is not kept between 21 °C and 27°C, the ideal range for their survival. Since they need high humidity, you should mist the enclosure regularly to prevent it from becoming excessively dry. Adding plenty of hiding spots can make the setup more comfortable. This encourages natural behavior and gives your isopods a place to rest and seek cover. Make sure there is proper airflow within the enclosure. Otherwise, your isopods will struggle to breathe and even suffocate. Rubber Bee Isopods: Feeding Since Rubber Bee Isopods are scavengers, they eat dead plants, old wood, and fallen leaves, so you must include all that in their diet in captivity. Feeding them is not a dreadful task and a combination of dried leaves, pieces of rotting wood, and special isopod foods sold in pet stores to balance their diet is indeed the best. They also love occasional treats like slices of carrots, cucumbers, or fish flakes, but make sure not to overfeed them, or else it will harm their health. Rubber Bee Isopods: Appearance & Behaviour Rubber Bee Isopods are tiny but striking, mainly because of their black bodies and bright yellow bands that make them look like little bees. Their shell is also soft and flexible, unlike any other species. They are pretty much social in nature and like to socialize in their colony, but you won’t see them before night because, during the daytime, they hide and rest underneath the leaf litter. They love to burrow in the soil and hide under leaves or wood, which is why you need to add plenty of substrates so they can carry on with their natural behavior without constraints. Rubber Bee Isopods: Habitat When creating the perfect habitat, you must mimic their natural environment so they can thrive in moist, shady places and have many hiding spots to seek cover. Only opt for the terrarium that has holes in the lid which ensures the proper airflow. Check on the humidity level as it is crucial as well. To maintain the same, mist the enclosure regularly and avoid placing it in direct sunlight because it can dry out the habitat quickly. Rubber Bee Isopods: Substrate Mix A good substrate mix can hold moisture and contains 50% organic topsoil, 25% coconut fiber, and 25% leaf litter, but without any fertilizer or harsh chemicals. Otherwise, your isopods can fall sick or even die. You can also add small pieces of rotting wood and crushed oyster shells so they can have their calcium fill and their exoskeleton can develop better and stronger.

White Shark Isopods (Cubaris sp. 'White Shark') are a delightful dwarf Cubaris species that pack incredible visual appeal into a tiny package. Originating from Thailand, these miniature isopods display a striking tricolour pattern - orange, white, and dark blue-black sections arranged in sequential bands that make them genuinely eye-catching despite their diminutive size. Don't let the intimidating name fool you - at just 8mm fully grown, these are among the smallest Cubaris species available. What they lack in size, they more than make up for in personality, colouration, and breeding potential. Once established, White Sharks are surprisingly prolific and make an excellent gateway species for keepers wanting to move from beginner isopods into the world of Cubaris. Their distinctive appearance has earned them cult status in the hobby. The combination of a bright orange "face," white midsection, and dark rear creates a pattern unlike almost any other isopod. Some individuals show variations where the black appears more navy blue, or the orange leans towards red - genetic variation that adds interest to any colony. A Glimpse Origin: Thailand Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. 'White Shark' Difficulty Level: Easy to Medium Size: Up to 8mm (dwarf species) Temperature: 24-28°C Humidity: 60-80% Rarity: Low to Medium An Overview White Shark Isopods belong to the Cubaris genus - a group renowned for attractive colouration, the characteristic "duck face" appearance, and the ability to roll into a perfect ball when threatened. While many Cubaris species carry reputations for being difficult and expensive, White Sharks are refreshingly accessible. They're one of the few Cubaris that combine stunning looks with genuinely beginner-friendly care. Their small size is the first thing keepers notice. Fully grown adults reach approximately 8mm (around 1/4 inch), making them true dwarf isopods. This compact size makes them perfect for smaller terrariums where larger species would overwhelm the space. Despite being tiny, established colonies are surprisingly visible - particularly at feeding time when they'll swarm a piece of carrot or vegetable. White Sharks originate from tropical Thailand, where they inhabit humid environments rich in decomposing organic matter. They've adapted to life in consistently moist conditions with high lime content in the soil - important considerations when setting up their enclosure. One of their best qualities is their breeding potential. Unlike some Cubaris species that are notoriously slow or difficult to breed, White Sharks reproduce readily once established and comfortable. A small starter colony can multiply significantly within 2-3 months under proper care. Basic Care White Shark Isopods require typical Cubaris care: warm temperatures, high humidity, and attention to environmental stability. They're more forgiving than premium Cubaris species like Rubber Duckies but still need proper conditions to thrive. Temperature should be maintained between 24-28°C (75-80°F). Consistent warmth encourages activity and breeding. Avoid temperature fluctuations where possible. Humidity is crucial - aim for 60-80%. The enclosure should be kept predominantly moist (approximately 80% damp, 20% drier), but never waterlogged. Too much dampness causes moulting issues and sudden die-offs, a common problem with Cubaris species. The key is maintaining humidity without creating soggy conditions. Unlike some Cubaris that prefer very low ventilation, White Sharks benefit from moderate airflow. Small ventilation holes help prevent stagnation and mould while maintaining necessary humidity levels. Too little ventilation causes problems; too much drops humidity too quickly. Finding the balance is important. Provide a deep substrate (7-10cm / 3-4 inches) to allow for their natural burrowing behaviour. White Sharks are enthusiastic burrowers and spend much of their time beneath the surface, particularly when preparing to moult or breed. A smaller enclosure is actually preferable when starting with a new colony. Being dwarf isopods, if they're too spread out in a large space, they'll struggle to find each other for breeding. A 6-8 quart container is ideal for a starter culture of 10-20 individuals. Feeding White Shark Isopods are detritivores with hearty appetites relative to their tiny size. They require a high-nutrition diet to support their active metabolism and breeding. Primary foods (should always be available): Hardwood leaf litter (oak is excellent) Rotting white wood pieces Sphagnum moss Lichens and forest moss Supplementary foods (offered regularly, at least twice weekly): Fresh vegetables - carrots, courgette, cucumber, squash Fish food/flakes Dried shrimp, minnows, or insects (protein source) Commercial isopod foods Calcium and protein supplementation is particularly important for this species. White Sharks are notably protein-hungry compared to some isopods. Provide constant access to: Cuttlefish bone Limestone powder or pieces Crushed oyster shell Eggshells Adding limestone to the enclosure mimics their natural Thai habitat, where they live in high lime-content soils. A useful observation tip: placing a small piece of carrot in the enclosure will quickly become "caked" with White Sharks feeding - adults and babies alike. This is an excellent way to observe your colony without disturbing them by digging through the substrate. Feed protein sources on the drier side of the enclosure, as they spoil quickly in humid conditions and can attract pests. Appearance and Behaviour White Shark Isopods are instantly recognisable for their striking tricolour pattern. From front to back, they display sequential bands of colour: a bright orange "face" and head region, a white midsection, and a dark blue-black rear section. This creates a visually striking contrast that's genuinely impressive despite their tiny size. Colour intensity and exact patterning varies between individuals due to natural genetic variation. Some specimens show more navy blue than black, others lean towards red-orange rather than pure orange. This variation adds visual interest to colonies. Adults reach approximately 8mm in length - true dwarf status among isopods. Their bodies show the characteristic rounded, segmented shape of Cubaris species with the adorable "duck face" that makes the genus so popular. Behaviourally, White Sharks are shy and reclusive, spending much of their time burrowed in the substrate. They're primarily nocturnal, doing most of their foraging at night, though established colonies will venture out during the day - particularly when food is available. Like all Cubaris, they can roll into a tight, complete ball (conglobation) when threatened. When disturbed, they tend to scatter quickly and seek hiding spots rather than curling up immediately. They're social creatures that do well in groups. High-density colonies are actually more active and visible than sparse ones, as the isopods feel more secure with others around. Habitat White Shark Isopods originate from tropical Thailand and require conditions that replicate their humid, warm native environment. For housing, use a plastic container with ventilation or a glass terrarium. Smaller containers (6-8 quart) are actually preferable for starter cultures - dwarf isopods in large spaces take longer to find each other and begin breeding. Temperature: Maintain 24-28°C consistently. Warmth encourages activity and reproduction. Humidity: Aim for 60-80%, with approximately 80% of the enclosure kept moist and 20% drier. High humidity is essential, but avoid waterlogged conditions. Ventilation: Moderate. Small ventilation holes help prevent stagnation and mould while maintaining humidity. A secure lid with mesh-covered vents works well. Substrate depth: Provide 7-10cm (3-4 inches) minimum to allow comfortable burrowing. White Sharks are enthusiastic burrowers and spend considerable time beneath the surface. Hiding spots: Unlike some Cubaris that congregate under cork bark, White Sharks typically prefer burrowing in the substrate itself. Piles of leaf litter and decaying wood provide cover without requiring cork bark (though it can be included if desired). Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations. Substrate Mix Creating the right substrate is essential for White Shark success. The mix provides food, maintains humidity, allows burrowing, and should include calcium-rich elements to mimic their natural habitat. Option 1 - ABG Mix Base: ABG (Atlanta Botanical Garden) mix provides an excellent foundation with good drainage, water retention, nutrient retention, and compaction resistance. Standard ABG mix components: Sphagnum moss - 1 part Tree fern fibre - 2 parts Orchid bark - 2 parts Peat moss - 1 part Charcoal - 1 part Layer on top: oak leaf litter, cottonwood bark, live moss Option 2 - Alternative Mix: Coconut humus/coir Mixed soil Wooden bark pieces Orchid moss Sphagnum moss Essential additions to either mix: Limestone powder (mimics their high-lime Thai habitat) Cuttlefish bone pieces Rotting white wood Generous leaf litter covering Create a thick substrate base (7-10cm minimum) to support their burrowing behaviour. The substrate should feel damp when squeezed but not dripping wet. Adding decaying wood pieces, cork bark, and piles of leaf litter helps with excess moisture control and provides food sources. Breeding White Shark Isopods are among the more prolific Cubaris species once established. They breed readily under proper conditions, making them an excellent choice for keepers wanting to build a colony. New colonies typically need about a month to acclimate to their environment before breeding begins. During this settling-in period, focus on maintaining stable conditions and don't expect immediate reproduction. Once established, White Sharks can multiply quickly. A starter colony of 10-12 individuals can grow significantly within 2-3 months under optimal care. They're described as "fairly prolific on a regular basis" once conditions are right. For optimal breeding success, maintain temperatures at the higher end of their range (26-28°C), keep humidity at 60-80%, provide deep substrate for burrowing, ensure constant calcium availability, and offer regular protein supplementation. Females carry fertilised eggs in a brood pouch (marsupium) until they hatch. The tiny mancae can be raised alongside adults without separation, though some keepers prefer to move juveniles to prevent any risk of predation in crowded conditions. Monitor colony size as breeding progresses. White Sharks reproduce well, and populations can grow quickly. Be prepared to upgrade enclosure size or split colonies as numbers increase. White Shark Isopods as Bioactive Cleanup Crew White Shark Isopods make excellent additions to bioactive terrariums, efficiently processing organic waste despite their small size. Their diminutive stature actually makes them well-suited to smaller terrariums where larger isopod species would be overwhelming. As detritivores, they eagerly consume leaf litter, decaying wood, leftover food, faecal matter, and decomposing plant material. This natural cleanup behaviour helps maintain enclosure hygiene and reduces mould risk. Their high breeding rate means colonies can sustain themselves as a cleanup crew while potentially providing a calcium-rich food source for small terrarium inhabitants that can safely consume them. For bioactive use, ensure the enclosure provides appropriate humidity and temperature for White Sharks while meeting the needs of other inhabitants. Their preference for burrowing means they'll spend much time in the substrate, aerating it while processing organic matter.