Positives and negatives of isopods in a bioactive enclosure

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 are also known as White Shark Dwarf isopods. These isopods are one of the most minor Cubaris sp. They are fascinating, adorable, widely appreciated, and more prevalent among exotic pet lovers and admirers. Synopsis Origin: Thailand Scientific Name: Cubaris sp Size: 8mm Temperature: 75°F to 80°F Maintenance: Easy to medium Humidity: 60% to 80% Supplement: Cuttlebone, Limestone Rarity: Low Recommended enclosure: Plastic or glass with proper ventilation Abstract White shark Isopods of the Crustaceans order are native to Thailand. They have orange, white, and dark blue exoskeletons. These Cubaris sp. thrive more than any other cubaris sp. and are suitable to breed in an enclosure. White sharks are a unique dwarf isopod species known for their specific habitat preferences, diet, and care requirements, making them popular among enthusiasts who keep them as pets or in captivity. These critters are like every isopod; they are diurnal and consume rotten plant and organic matter, thus maintaining the ecosystem. Like most isopods, they have a huge appetite and eat almost everything. Learn more about using isopods as feeders. These critters roll and form a ball when threatened. These creatures thrive in tropical habitats with high humidity and high lime-content soil. They are shy and reclusive species and often like burrowing in the soil. Behaviour and Appearance It has a tricolour carapace with orange, white and dark blue. They can grow up to 0.8 cm long. They are one of the smallest species. Their colour and small size make it adorable and visually appealing. They are active at night. i.e. nocturnal They are easy to care for if kept at an optimal temperature and humidity. They prefer humid environments. Around 80% humid 20%dry. They need moisture for moulting. They feed on vegetables, greens, fish food, and decaying leaves. Limestone and cuttlefish are suitable for calcium and protein. White Shark Isopods inhabit their environment by utilizing materials like cork bark, leaf litter, and decaying wood to feel secure and establish themselves. They are not beginner-friendly, but they will thrive well if taken care of them. They are child-friendly. Feeding Unlike other Cubaris species, White Shark Dwarf isopods require a high-nutrition diet. The main food components are fodder leaves and flaky soil with rotten white wood given on alternate days. These creatures need protein twice a week, vegetables, and dried leaves. Protein-rich food like cuttlefish bone, oyster shells, and limestone powder keep them healthy. It is important to provide White Shark Isopods with access to calcium sources such as cuttlefish bone and limestone to support their health and development. Breeding Offsprings White Shark Isopods are active species ready to reproduce unless acclimated to their surroundings. It takes a month for them to establish. Once they adapt to their surroundings, they start producing many offspring.  These creatures are highly active in breeding, and therefore, they may produce many offspring. Consequently, monitoring their behaviour and taking care of these creatures is necessary.  White Shark Isopod: Temperature and Habitat For the White shark isopod, it is necessary to have an enclosure made of plastic or glass. The enclosure should be big enough to support their colony. They should have a small ventilation. For details on caring for other isopod species, see this comprehensive guide to dairy cow isopod care. We recommend using a secure lid with adjustable ventilation and selecting a habitat size that allows for both burrowing and movement to ensure optimal conditions for White Shark Isopods. Moisture is essential for White Shark isopods. Maintaining a humid environment is crucial for the overall health of White Shark Isopods. Maintaining the enclosure 80% moist and the rest dry allows them to regulate their hydration. White Shark isopods can survive low temperatures. But the optimal temperature for the creatures to breed will be around 75°F to 80°F. It takes time for White Shark Isopods to get adapted to the environment. Once they adapt, they start producing offspring due to the provided good environmental conditions and habitat. Also, it is necessary to provide a thick substrate base for them to burrow and dig. They are shy and reclusive and like to get burrowed in. Burrowing also helps them to maintain the moisture inside their body. Therefore, providing an ideal environment with a dense substrate is necessary. Excess humidity is not ideal for the White Shark Isopods to live in. This will invite uninvited pests like mould, gnats, mites and fruit flies. Also, excessive moisture may affect the isopods’ moulting and cause them to die off. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain the high humidity but not too much. Proper ventilation will help in getting rid of excess moisture in their habitat. Substrate Mixture Creating a good substrate mix is essential. Since the White Shark isopods are humidity-loving creatures, providing a suitable substrate mix is necessary. Two types of substrate mix bases exist for the White Shark Dwarf isopods. One consists of an ABG substrate mix with oak leaf litter, cottonwood bark and live moss. Atlanta Botanical Garden or ABG mix is a standard mixture for terrarium and vivarium. This mixture is also used as a substrate mix. It has a mixture of substrates that helps create a balance of elements in the artificial habitat for isopods. Drainage Water retention Retention of nutrients Compaction resistance   Long Lasting   The substrate mix should consist of the following items: Sphagnum moss: 1 part Tree fern fibre: 2 part Orchid bark: 2 part Peat moss: 1 part One part charcoal This mixture can be used as a substrate base for the  White Shark isopods’ enclosure. While providing the enclosure with the base, make a thick base. This helps the creatures for digging and moulting. There is another substrate mix for the White Shark isopods. They consist of the following items: Coconut humus Mixed soil Wooden bark Orchid Moss Both these substrate mixes are suitable for White Shark isopods. This mix provides the enclosure the necessary base for the habitat that they’re from Note: It is important to monitor humidity levels closely and avoid creating an overly damp environment. Too much humidity and dampness can cause moulting issues and sudden die-offs. Therefore, it is crucial to provide space for moisture to escape. Providing small ventilation can help solve the issue. Also, adding decaying wood pieces, cork bark, and piles of leaf litter can help with excess moisture. This helps in mimicking the natural habitat they are from. White Shark Isopods need a lot of protein. Therefore, limestone powder is added to both substrates, mimicking their habitat. Earthworm casting, cuttlefish bone, oyster shell, and fish food are other better supplements for these critters. These isopods need places to hide and explore. Therefore, providing a wooden bark will help provide them a hiding space. In conclusion, this well-balanced substrate mix helps sustain the physical health of White Shark isopods mimicking their natural habitat. This encourages them to bring out natural behaviour, adapt and breed offspring. White Shark Isopods as Bioactive Clean-up Crew White Shark isopods (Cubaris sp.) are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy, bioactive environment in their enclosure. As a small species, these isopods excel at breaking down organic waste, making them an essential part of any naturalistic habitat. Their diet is perfectly suited for this role, as they eagerly consume leaf litter, decaying wood pieces, and other organic debris, helping to keep the enclosure clean and balanced. In a bioactive setup, White Shark isopods act as a natural clean-up crew, efficiently processing leftover foods, fecal matter, and decomposing plant material. By feeding on piles of leaf litter and cork bark, they help prevent the build-up of waste and reduce the risk of mold and other unwanted organisms. This not only keeps the environment healthy for your isopods but also benefits any co-inhabitants in the enclosure. To ensure your White Shark isopods thrive as a clean-up crew, it’s important to provide a suitable substrate mix. A combination of soil, cork bark, and leaf litter creates the perfect habitat for them to forage and feel safe. Maintaining the right humidity is crucial—too much humidity can lead to moulting issues and sudden die-offs, while too little can cause dehydration. Regularly monitor the enclosure’s moisture levels and make adjustments as needed to keep your colony healthy. Supplementing their diet with calcium-rich foods is also essential. Adding cuttlefish bone, oyster shells, and even small pieces of vegetables like carrots and zucchini will provide the nutrition they need for strong exoskeletons and successful breeding. These foods not only support their health but also encourage natural behaviors, making your White Shark isopods more active and visible. Because White Shark isopods are prolific breeders, it’s important to monitor their population and food supply. Overfeeding can result in excess moisture and potential issues with the environment, so remove uneaten foods promptly and adjust quantities as your colony grows. Providing plenty of hiding places, such as cork bark and piles of leaf litter, will help them feel secure and reduce stress. With their cute appearance, active nature, and impressive ability to break down waste, White Shark isopods are an excellent addition to any bioactive enclosure. By providing the right care, suitable substrate, and a balanced diet, you’ll enjoy a thriving, healthy colony that keeps your habitat clean and vibrant. Whether you’re new to keeping isopods or looking to enhance your bioactive setup, this small species is sure to impress with their hard work and charm.

Cubaris sp. “Black Pearl” are a type of isopod we have had in our collection now since mid 2024. These extraordinary creatures display a uniform, glossy black coloration that’s virtually unmatched in the hobby. If you’re looking to add something truly special to your collection, these rare Asian natives offer both visual impact with a relatively easy care and breeding (once established) What Makes Cubaris Black Pearl Special Exceptional Rarity and Visual Appeal Black Pearl isopods are still quite rare amongst collects in the UK  compared to other cubaris sp. available in the hobby. Their solid black coloration creates a striking contrast against leaf litter and substrate, making them instant conversation pieces. Unlike common isopods, these specimens maintain their deep black colour throughout their lifecycle. Other visually stunning cubaris species, like the Red Edge Peach Isopods, are also highly sought after in the hobby for their unique appearance.  Each individual reaches approximately 1.5cm at maturity, displaying the characteristic smooth, rounded body that makes cubaris species so desirable. Conglobation Ability Like other cubaris sp., Black Pearls can roll into perfect spheres when threatened - a fascinating behavior that adds educational value to any collection. Essential Care Requirements Temperature and Humidity Control Maintain temperatures between 18-26°C (64-79°F) for optimal health and breeding success. Humidity levels require careful attention - aim for medium-high levels while ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent mold issues. Habitat Setup Create naturalistic habitats using deep substrate layers of coconut fiber mixed with decaying wood and leaf litter. Cork bark provides essential hiding spots, while varied substrate depth accommodates their burrowing behavior. Diet and Nutrition These detritus feeders require a balanced diet including: Quality leaf litter (oak, maple, beech) Decaying wood pieces Fish food flakes for additional protein Calcium supplements (cuttlebone, crushed eggshells) Additional supplements as needed Feed sparingly - isopods feed continuously on substrate materials, so overfeeding commercial foods can cause problems. Breeding Information Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced Black Pearl breeding presents moderate difficulty, requiring stable conditions and patience. Successful colonies typically start with mixed age groups to ensure breeding compatibility. Reproduction Timeline Females carry eggs in their brood pouches for several weeks before releasing fully-formed juveniles. Population growth is slow but steady under proper conditions. Colony Management Start with at least 6-8 individuals for genetic diversity. Provide multiple microhabitats within the enclosure to accommodate different life stages and preferences. Why Choose Our Black Pearl Isopods Quality Assurance Each order includes healthy, captive-bred specimens from established breeding lines. We ensure proper size variety and age distribution for successful colony establishment. Expert Support Receive detailed care information with every order. Our team provides ongoing support to help you succeed with these challenging but rewarding creatures. Rare Availability Due to their rarity, Pearl isopods like the Black Pearl are often out of stock. When available, they represent an investment in one of the hobby’s most prestigious species. Ordering and Shipping Stock Availability Check current stock status before placing orders. Due to breeding cycles and high demand, availability is limited. Live Arrival Guarantee We provide safe shipping with live arrival guarantees. Temperature-controlled packaging ensures your isopods arrive healthy and ready to establish in their new habitat. Perfect for Serious Collectors Black Pearl isopods are intended for all types of keepers who appreciate rarity and are willing to provide the specific care these creatures require. They work well in bioactive setups but are too valuable to use solely as cleanup crew (at least in my opinion - some do keep rare species/genus as cleanup crew. Whether you’re expanding an existing collection or starting with something extraordinary, Cubaris Black Pearl isopods offer unmatched prestige in the isopod hobby. Their stunning appearance, combined with the low availability in the UK make them more desirable amongst collecters wanting rare pods. Ready to add these rare beauties to your collection? Check stock availability and secure your breeding group today. Due to their exceptional rarity, opportunities to acquire Black Pearl isopods are limited - when they’re available, they don’t last long.

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 3-8 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.