Cubaris sp. "Red Edge Peach" is a colour phase of the popular Red Edge isopod, displaying soft peach and pink body tones instead of the typical grey-brown colouration, while retaining the characteristic red "skirts" or edges that give the species its name. Originating from Thailand, Red Edge isopods are considered one of the more accessible Cubaris species - hardy enough to tolerate minor care mistakes while still offering that distinctive Cubaris appearance. The Peach phase adds warmer tones that some keepers prefer over the standard grey variety.
A Glimpse
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Origin: Thailand
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Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. "Red Edge Peach"
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Maintenance required: Low-Medium
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Average Size: Up to 18mm
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Rarity: Rare
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Lifespan: 2-3 years
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Temperature: 73°F-78°F (23°C-26°C)
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Ventilation: Medium
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Humidity: 60-80%
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Favourite food: Leaf litter, decaying wood, vegetables
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Supplements: Cuttlefish bone, protein twice weekly
Red Edge Peach Isopods: Introduction
Red Edge isopods have built a reputation as one of the better "starter" Cubaris species. They're hardier and less delicate than many premium Cubaris varieties, making them a sensible stepping stone for keepers who've mastered basic isopod care and want to move into more exotic territory before tackling species like Rubber Duckies or Lemon Blues.
The "Peach" phase refers to the body colouration - soft peach, pink, or coral tones rather than the grey-brown of the standard variety. The signature red edging remains, creating a warmer overall appearance. There's also an orange phase available in the hobby. Individual variation is common, with some specimens showing more vivid colouration than others.
Red Edge isopods are sometimes also known as "Red Skirts" or may be labelled as Cubaris iriomotensis or "Miyako" in some sources, though the taxonomy is uncertain.
Red Edge Peach Isopods: Physical Traits and Characteristics
- Adults reach approximately 18mm - a decent medium size for a Cubaris.
- The distinctive red "skirts" or edges rim each body segment, creating the look that gives them their name.
- Body colouration in the Peach phase ranges from subtle peachy-cream to more vivid coral-pink tones.
- Individual variation is normal - not every specimen will look identical.
- They display the characteristic Cubaris "duck face" profile.
- Full conglobation ability - they can roll into a defensive ball when threatened.
- More active than many premium Cubaris species, making them more visible in their enclosures.
Red Edge Peach Isopods: Diet
Red Edge isopods benefit from a higher protein diet than some other isopod species.
Leaf litter should always be available. Oak, birch, maple, and other hardwood leaves form the foundation of their diet.
Decaying wood, particularly white-rotted softwood, is an essential nutrition source. Include pieces in the enclosure.
Vegetables like sweet potato, carrot, pumpkin, and squash are readily accepted.
Protein is particularly important for this species. Feed fish flakes, freeze-dried shrimp, or dried bloodworms twice weekly.
Calcium via cuttlefish bone, limestone, or crushed oyster shell supports healthy moulting.
Red Edge Peach Isopods: Behaviour
Red Edge isopods are notably more active than many other Cubaris species. While they're still primarily nocturnal and will hide under cover during the day, they're frequently visible exploring their environment compared to shyer premium species. This makes them better "display" pets - you'll actually see them from time to time.
They make decent desk pets for this reason, provided you can maintain appropriate humidity levels. Their activity level and relatively hardy nature make them more engaging than some of the rarer, more reclusive Cubaris varieties.
Like all Cubaris, they can roll into a ball when threatened.
Red Edge Peach Isopods: Breeding
Once established, Red Edge isopods breed at a moderate rate. Broods tend to be on the smaller side compared to prolific species like Porcellio scaber, but they reproduce reliably under good conditions.
They're not the fastest breeders, so patience is needed when establishing a colony. Stable conditions - consistent temperature, humidity, and food supply - are more important than any specific breeding triggers.
Red Edge Peach Isopods: Habitat
A 6-litre container works for a starter colony. Larger enclosures of 12 litres or more suit established groups.
Temperature: 73-78°F (23-26°C) is ideal. They're tropical isopods and prefer consistent warmth.
Humidity: 60-80%. Maintain a moisture gradient with approximately one-third of the enclosure kept consistently moist using sphagnum moss. They like mossy retreats.
Ventilation: Medium - they need humidity retention but also good airflow to prevent stagnation and mould.
Substrate: Use a soil-based mix 2-3 inches deep. Include:
- Organic topsoil as a base
- Rotting white wood pieces (important for nutrition)
- Leaf litter mixed through and on the surface
- Sphagnum moss patches for the moist section
Hides: Cork bark is essential. They appreciate mossy retreats and multiple hiding options.
Who Are Red Edge Peach Isopods Suited For?
Red Edge isopods (including the Peach phase) are often recommended as an entry point into Cubaris keeping. They're less delicate than many premium Cubaris species and can tolerate less-than-ideal conditions for slightly longer - not that you should aim for that, but it provides a margin for error while you're learning.
They're well-suited to:
- Keepers who've successfully maintained basic isopods (like Porcellio scaber or Armadillidium vulgare) and want to try something more exotic
- Those wanting a more active, visible Cubaris species
- Keepers building up experience before attempting more demanding species like Rubber Duckies or Lemon Blues
- Anyone who prefers warmer peach/pink tones over the grey-brown of the standard Red Edge
If you're completely new to isopods, consider starting with a hardy Porcellio or Armadillidium species first. But if you've got the basics down and want to move into Cubaris territory, Red Edge (in any colour phase) is a sensible choice.
