All Isopods (146)

St. Lucia isopods (AKA Jelly Bean Isopods) are popular pet isopods sold worldwide in huge numbers. They were initially found on Saint Lucia island. They are popularly known as jelly bean isopods due to the variety of colours they exhibit among themselves.  These isopods, even from the same colony, come in various colours. They are usually found in uncommon colours like dark burgundy, yellow, orange, etc. With a maximum length of about ¾ inches, they are perfect as pet isopods. A Glimpse Jelly beans are one of my favourite isopods, like the gestrois these are very confident isopods with great appetites, they are often seen ontop of the cork bark in the tub and unlike a lot of other isopods which wait until it's quiet or the lights go off before getting food you add to the tub, Jelly beans go for the food right away and eat it very quickly alos. Origin: Saint Lucia Island  Scientific Name: Armadillidium Vulgare St. Lucia Difficulty Level: Easy Size: Up to ¾ inch Rarity: Common Temperature: 70°F to 80°F Humidity: 70% to 80% Favourite Foods: Organic matter An Overview Jelly Bean isopods are naturally found on Saint Lucia island. They are very suitable for pet rearing in small to medium enclosures. They are incredibly popular in the pet isopod world for their colour variation traits. It is generally observed that even the same colony these isopods exhibit a vast colour variation.  Many experiments have been conducted to isolate the colours found among these isopods. Researchers have mated jelly bean isopods of the same colour to produce a single-coloured isopod. But despite the same colour parents, the offspring tend to show their typical colour variation. The colours of these isopods include orange, grey, yellow, burgundy, etc. The colour variation makes them the best addition to any vivarium. They grow up to ¾ inch and have a smooth segmented body.  Basic Care Before proceeding to the details regarding the feeding, enclosure, substrate mix, etc., for Jelly Bean isopods, here are some pointers on how to provide primary care for these isopods. Even though Jelly Bean isopods are small, they need a spacious enclosure to move around in.  It is advisable not to purchase a single Jelly Bean isopod alone. Jelly Bean isopods are highly social creatures. They need to have the presence of their fellow colony members to survive well. Retaining moisture is essential for Jelly Bean isopods. So, getting some hiding spots for the isopod enclosure is advisable. A critical thing to remember regarding Jelly Bean isopods is that they reproduce quickly. Unlike the other isopods, Jelly Bean isopods follow the ‘brood pouching’ method to protect the laid egg. Brood pouching is a unique reproductive strategy where the female creature tends to carry the laid eggs in a pouch until and unless they are ready to hatch. The pouch ensures the survival of the offspring by providing them protection. Feeding The diet of these isopods should contain protein-rich and calcium-rich foods. They need to get all their essential nutrients from the diet they follow. Leaf litter is the most common food for Jelly Bean isopods.  Jelly Bean isopods are generally detritivores. They love to consume organic matter. They are also quite fond of fruits, vegetables, etc. The fruits that can be given to Jelly Bean isopods are as follows. Apples   Berries   Bananas   Leafy greens The vegetables suitable for Jelly Bean isopods are as follows. Carrots   Zucchini   Cucumber Following are some protein sources for Jelly Bean isopods. Shrimp pellets   Fish food flakes   Crushed pet food Following are some calcium sources for Jelly Bean isopods. Cuttlebone powder   Calcium supplement Appearance and Behaviour Appearance  St Lucia isopods are relatively small and grow to only ¾ inches. They have a segmented body covered in a shiny exoskeleton. They come in many colours, including red, yellow, and orange. Behavior Jelly Bean isopods are social creatures. They can survive only when in groups. They interact with their colony members regularly. Usually, in colonies, there is a social hierarchy. There will always be dominant isopods in a colony that leads and controls the pack. The dominant isopods exhibit stacking, which is placing oneself above another to display dominance.  Habitat The right habitat is crucial for the survival of St Lucia isopods. As these isopods are originally from a humid environment, the enclosure must mimic the conditions of their natural habitat. St Lucia isopods are colorful creatures. So, using a transparent case, container, or tank to make an enclosure is ideal. A transparent enclosure will make it visible to watch the activities of the isopods. When deciding on the size of the enclosure, make sure that there is enough space for the isopods to move around freely. There should also be enough space for ventilation and air movement inside the enclosure. The insides of the enclosure should be designed to retain maximum humidity. The first step is to fill the enclosure with a moisture-retaining substrate mix. There should also be enough hiding spots inside the enclosure. Driftwood, bark, cork tubes, etc., can be placed on the enclosure's surface inside. These items act as activity courses for the isopods and also as hiding spots. A water dish with clean water is necessary inside the enclosure. The enclosure's surface should also be sprayed with water occasionally to keep it moist. Gentle heat sources like lamps could be an excellent addition to Jelly Bean enclosures. St Lucia isopods needs gentle light. So, providing a gentle light source inside the enclosure will also be helpful. Substrate Mix A smooth and moist substrate mix is ideal for the survival of these isopods. The mix should be soft enough for the isopods to burrow into. It should also retain as much moisture as possible. Some of the most suitable substrate options for Jelly Beans are as follows. Coconut fiber   Sphagnum moss   Peat moss   Leaf litter The substrate mix in the enclosure should provide maximum humidity. Leaf litter is an excellent option for maintaining humidity inside the enclosure and can also be used as a food source.  It is advisable to spray water into the substrate mix to maintain its moisture content. However, it is essential not to overwet the substrate. Extra moisture in the substrate can cause mold and bacteria to grow.

Native to Spain, marbelized isopods are comparatively easier to find than other isopods from the same region.. They are considered a brilliant display species for the vivarium/ enclosures.  A Glimpse Origin: Spain  Scientific Name: Armadillidium Espanyoli Difficulty Level: Medium Size: 0.8CM. Rarity: Medium Temperature: 68-83F Humidity: 50-70%   Favourite Foods: Leaf litter, cuttlebone, pollen, etc.  An Overview Armadillidium ‘Marbelized’ Isopods are named that way due to the colouration in their bodies. Their country of origin is Spain. The body pattern of marbelized isopods is unique in the sense that they have a white pattern across their bodies. This pattern has the texture of a marble. Hence, they are called 'Marbelized’ isopods.   The white colouration found in their bodies makes Marbelized isopods stand apart from other Armadillidium species. The colouration makes them more unique in appearance and qualifies them as an attractive species for enclosures. But the importance of Marbelized isopods is not just from the aesthetic perspective. They are also identified as having a functional nature. They can very well be the janitors inside the vivarium.  Marbelized isopods feed on a variety of food items. Like many other Armadillidium isopods, they can consume a variety of leaves, hardwood, etc. Vegetables can be provided separately. For protein balance in their diet, cuttlebone, and different types of pollen can be fed.   Armadillidium espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods: Basic Care Several instructions are explained by experts for the best care for Armadillidium espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods. Espanyoli Isopods require an environment with high humidity.  They require dry and damp parts within the same enclosure. The ratio is believed to be 60/40.  They only require moderately wet atmospheres as it is unviable for them.  Marbelized isopods are recognized to start their breeding relatively slowly.  Separate culturing and introducing them to the terrariums/vivariums are highly advised. These isopods require little ventilation to go about their functions.  Cork Bark is considered a perfect burrowing space for these species of Armadillidum isopods.  They prefer to feed on- hardwood, leaf litter, vegetables, cuttlebone, pollen, etc.  A room temperature of 68-83⁰F is the ideal environment for them to thrive.  Humidity levels have to be maintained at 50-70%. Armadillidium Espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods: Feeding Armadillidium marbelized Isopods are also considered detritivores. This means that they can consume many forms of food supplements for their ideal growth. Some of the main items on their menu include leaf litter, pollen, vegetables, hardwood, etc.  Like many other Armadillidium species of isopods, hardwood and different types of leaves form the basic food mixture for these isopods. Leftover vegetable scraps from the kitchen can be utilized as additional supplements for their diet. Dried vegetable scraps should be given, as moisture in vegetables can cause mold development, which is harmful to their growth.   Marbelized isopods, too, prefer sufficient protein intake to supplement their growth. In the protein-rich category, they can consume different types of pollen and cuttlebone as part of their diet. Fiber sources for their consumption include leaf litter, hardwood, etc. Almost all vegetables can be provided to supplement their growth. The only point is that they should be dried.  Armadillidium Espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour Armadillidium Espanyoli has a hard exoskeleton. Their bodies are highly calcified. They are well known for the white ‘marblesque’ colouration in their body. The only colour they are found in is white. They are one of the smallest isopod species and grow to a maximum of 0.8 Cm. The country of origin of Armadillidium Marbelized isopods is Spain.  The burrowing pattern followed by these isopods makes them relatively safer for vivariums.  They require both moist and dry parts within the enclosures. In the vivarium, a 60/40 ratio must be maintained.  They are recognized as fast breeders once they are established. But their establishment requires some time. The gestation period is considered to be around 60 days. This is longer than most other Armadillidium species. Armadillidium Espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods: Habitat Any species of isopods' survival, whether in their natural habitat or a vivarium, requires ideal environments. For collectors, Marbelized isopods provide them with both aesthetical and functional uses. Many experts put forward many suggestions for maintaining their colouration and patterns.  68-83⁰F is the ideal temperature for Armadillidium Espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods. They tend to survive better in a humid environment. Keeping the optimal temperature within the vivarium is crucial for their development. Experts suggest using temperatures at regular intervals to check the level of humidity and temperature.   Marbelized isopods require a longer gestation period. Experts suggest that it might take up to 60 days for them to develop fully. Hence, patients are required to get the full benefits of these display isopods. They make for brilliant display species and are highly preferred by collectors across the globe. Glass enclosures are considered the best way to display these isopods.  The size of the container is free for the choice of the collector. Espanyoli isopods are a very small species of isopods. Hence, containers with too much size may not be ideal. Ventilation is another crucial aspect of these isopods. Unlike many other species of isopods, they require little ventilation for survival. These isopods also function well with dry sides within the vivariums.   Armadillidium Espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods: Substrate Mix Substrates are components that can provide the essential supplements and maintain the optimal environment within an enclosure. It is a mixture of ideal substances that can help an organism grow exponentially well. Isopods are always taken out of their natural habitats. Hence, providing them the best environment possible is an aspect every collector should be responsible about. Substrates help them achieve that.  Armadillidium espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods require a substrate mixture that maintains damp and dry parts. Experts suggest that the ratio should be 60/40 within the enclosure. Leaves are the easiest form of substrate that can be provided for Marbelized isopods. Hard wood and cork bark are also considered as part of the substrate. Cork barks can act as the ideal hiding spots for these isopods.  Armadillidium espanyoli ‘Marbelized’ Isopods does not prefer to climb out of their habitats. They tend to stay within their enclosures and hide in cork barks. Providing them these artificial hiding spots is an important aspect that has to be noted by all collectors.  Maintaining wet areas here and there within the enclosure is also important to take the best care of these isopods. Generally, these isopods prefer to survive in dry areas. Too much moisture can hamper their growth or could be fatal for them.   

Armadillidium Beieri Isopods are gaining popularity in the hobby due to their energetic nature and appearance. It doesn't take a lot of effort to have these isopods as pets. All you have to do is provide them with a safe environment and meet the care requirements. Armadillidium Beieri Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Greece Scientific Name: Armadillidium Beieri Difficulty Level: Easy Size: 12-18 mm Rarity: Medium Temperature: 17 – 28°C Humidity: 60 – 70% Favourite Foods: Veggies, fruits, greens, decaying leaves, fish food, forest moss, rotting white wood, lichen, moulting of reptiles and invertebrates Armadillidium Beieri Isopods: An Overview Armadillidium Beieri happens to be a unique isopod species that is commonly known as "pill bugs." An interesting thing about these isopods is that they roll into a tight ball whenever threatened. This particular species belongs to the Armadillidiidae family, known for its rolling defence mechanism that sets them apart from other isopods. Many collectors and hobbyists prefer Armadillidium Beieri mainly because of its behaviour and striking appearance. This species originated in Greece, but it is also found in other regions of Europe, most commonly in mountainous areas where the weather is cool and humid. If you are considering adding Armadillidium Beieri to your collection, you must understand the requirements for taking care. Unlike other isopods, Armadillidium Beieri is not difficult to care for but needs the right humidity and temperature to thrive. Armadillidium Beieri Isopods: Basic Care Let us now talk about the basic care requirements of Armadillidium Beieri. Following the instructions is important if you want your isopods to be happy and healthy. You need a well-ventilated enclosure to keep Armadillidium Beieri isopods. In this case, you can use a plastic or glass terrarium, especially those with lids. This will help retain moisture and allow proper airflow within the enclosure. The ideal temperature for Armadillidium Beieri is between 17°C and 28°C. You can maintain the right temperature by keeping them away from extreme cold or heat. During winter, you can use heating pads or lamps to keep the enclosure warm. As far as the humidity level is concerned, make sure it is between 60-70%. You can easily achieve this by misting the enclosure regularly. Alternatively, you can use a moisture-retaining substrate. It is important to make sure that the enclosure is big enough for the isopods to roam and explore freely. It is recommended you choose 10 gallons for a small colony. Like other isopods, Armadillidium Beieri enjoys hiding places in their enclosure, providing them with a sense of security and courage. Also, they need hiding spots to rest. In this case, you can use items like cork bark, leaf litter, or rocks to create a safe environment within the enclosure. , Armadillidium Beieri needs proper ventilation, so look for one with adequate ventilation. This is crucial to preventing mould growth or excess dampness, which can hurt your isopods' health. Armadillidium Beieri Isopods: Feeding Before you include them in your collection, you must know that Armadillidium Beieri isopods are natural detritivores. This means they feed on decaying organic matter like leaf litter, decaying wood, and plant matter. The primary diet of Armadillidium Beieri isopods includes plant matter, leaf litter, and decaying wood. They prefer oak, beech, and magnolia leaves the most in leaf litter. In addition to the primary diet, you should also provide them with fresh vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and cucumbers. As for their protein source, you can give them fish flakes, dried shrimp, or cuttlebone. It is also crucial to provide them with sufficient calcium. A cuttlebone or a calcium-rich supplement would be fine for this. Armadillidium Beieri Isopods: Appearance And Behaviour Armadillidium Beieri isopods have a segmented body with a hard, greyish exoskeleton that is slightly rounded. This helps them to roll into a ball when threatened. They are usually grey or brown, but some of them may display subtle colour variations depending on their diet and environment. These isopods can grow up to 12-18 mm when fully mature. This makes them a medium-sized species. They are mainly active at night and enjoy creating burrows in the substrate. They tend to hide under objects to rest and protect themselves from enemies. Since isopods are social animals, they tend to thrive in groups. Armadillidium Beieri Isopods: Habitat Armadillidium Beieri isopods are commonly found in forest areas and mountainous regions with cool and humid climates. They are native to Greece and tend to thrive in the areas with plenty of leaf litter, decaying wood, and other organic matter. This provides a perfect environment for these small creatures to grow and multiply. Talking about their natural habitat is similar to a forest floor environment, where they can hide under rocks, logs, or leaves. To keep these isopods in a terrarium, it is important to create a similar habitat. This way, you can keep them happy and healthy in your home. Another important thing to note is the humidity level. Unless you maintain the right humidity within the enclosure, they may not survive. In the wild, they live in a habitat with plenty of moisture, so make sure you do the same when keeping them in an enclosure. Armadillidium Beieri Isopods: Substrate Mix The substrate mix you choose for Armadillidium Beieri plays a crucial role in maintaining the environment for these isopods. A well-prepared substrate helps retain moisture and provides a safe place to thrive and maintain good overall health. You can use a mix of coco fibre, organic topsoil, and sand for the base substrate. This mixture helps retain moisture and allows them to burrow in, extending their life while managing their health. You can use leaf litter and spread it over the base substrate to provide an extra layer of moisture retention and shelter. Adding crushed eggshells or cuttlebone to the substrate is also a good idea, as it offers a natural source of calcium.

Murina Glacier Isopods, also known as Cubaris murina, are considered an excellent entry-level species within the Cubaris genus. Though they lack the vibrant colors or distinctive markings of other species, they are highly valued for their efficiency as bioactive custodians. These isopods are particularly well-suited for terrariums and vivariums, helping maintain a clean and balanced environment. Their adaptability and ease of care make them a popular choice for those new to the hobby. Cubaris Murina Glacier: Synopsis Place of Origin: Indo-Pacific region, North America Scientific Name: Cubaris murina Lifespan: 1-4 years Difficulty level:  Medium Temperature Range: 62℉-83℉ Size: 1 cm Rareness: Medium Humidity Range: 70% -80% Preferred Diet: fungi, bacteria, algae and other detritus Supplements in Addition: Cuttlebone, bat guano, calcium powder Cubaris Murina: Abstract Murina Glacier Isopods are highly adaptable to a variety of environments. These isopods are primarily found in the Pacific, the Caribbean, and North America. Their scientific name, Cubaris murina, is derived from the Latin words "cube," meaning "to lie," and "marina," which relates to sea creatures. This name reflects their smooth, small bodies, which have often led to them being mistaken for tiny sea organisms. Their ability to thrive in diverse habitats makes them a popular choice for bioactive setups. Characteristics These creatures are muted grey or purple in color with peach or orange spots at the rear end.  It has a smooth and small body and is often mistaken as a sea creature due to its appearance. These species are great clean-up crews in terrariums and vivariums. They have a moderate reproduction rate. These isopods are easy to care for and are great for beginners. They are found in multiple types of habitats. Due to this, they are widely sought after. They are the best entry-level species with a forgiving nature.  Murina Glacier Isopods: Morphs These species, which have either been cultured or found in the wild, are found in different patterns and colors.  Papaya: They are dull pink and are believed to be an albino version. These isopods are popular among enthusiasts. Glacier: It is an almost completely white variety. They have white eyes, legs, and antennae. Anemone: This isopod is a variety of speckled patterns of orange and grey. Florida Orange: The orange variety of the isopod discovered in the wild in Florida, hence the name. Murina Glacier Isopods: Food  Even Though the isopods are very small in size, their appetite is not very small. Feeding is essential to continue their life cycle. There are better methods than feeding them with random decaying material. The food supplied should be the perfect blend of various materials, ensuring that the isopods get all the required nutrients. The decaying organic matter should be placed in the corner of the container, forming the basis for their feeding. In addition to the organic matter, litters of leaf and decaying wood will help them maintain a healthy condition. Other than the naturally available materials, special supplements are designed to provide the perfect mix of required nutrients for the isopod. Supplying them with these designed foods can help them make healthy offspring. Cubaris Murina Glacier: Breeding The two main components for them to breed in abundance are the perfect food with the right amount of nutrients and a comfortable environment. Both can be achieved by using naturally available materials and man-made settings. Reproducing healthy offspring relates to the size and the regular structure.  A study was conducted in 2009 on these species, and it was discovered that they can produce decent-sized broods quickly.  This makes them a reliable species for different kinds of terrariums. These species can proliferate in a culture where there is low density compared to a high-density culture. Cubaris Murina: Natural Environment The environment provided by Mother Nature to the isopods is humid in nature. To adjust to the temperature and humidity, they have the ability to burrow themselves inside their living area, which helps them maintain their preferred living conditions. Due to this ability, they are seen in many parts of the world where there is a perfect blend of moist and humid environments. These isopods come out of their burrow whenever they feel the environmental conditions are safe for them. With a large appetite, they will hunt for their food any time of the day. Cubaris Murina Glacier Isopods: Artificial Enclosure Setting It is always difficult to set up an artificially made environment that is 100% comfortable for the isopods. But with the advancements in technology, an environment that can mimic the natural environment can be set up, which can ensure a near-to-comfortable climate for the isopods. These artificial settings are achieved by using humidity controllers and temperature regulators. Based on the sensor feedback, the system adjusts the conditions itself, providing the isopods with a misty environment, almost matching their natural environment. Proper care of the system has to be ensured as a wrong sensor feedback may create a difference in temperature or humidity, resulting in an uncomfortable environment. This will affect the lifespan as well as the ability to reproduce. For an artificial setting, start with a shoebox-size plastic container.  They do not reproduce in a short period of time. Therefore, the same box can be used for a longer period of time. It is to be ensured that sufficient ventilation is provided in the artificially designed environment.  Habitat and Substrate Mix They generally adapt to all kinds of environments. However, their preferred environment is a moist one.  While setting up the artificial environment, it is best to provide a moisture-retaining element for the isopods to have comfortable living conditions.  Placing coconut coir inside their habitat can help mimic their natural environment, as it helps them to burrow inside. In addition, the bark of orchid trees and sphagnum moss are very good elements for locking the moisture inside the enclosure.  Earthworm casting is one of the main sources of nutrients, which will help them to produce healthy offspring. Cubaris Murina: Basic Care Proper care must be provided to culture and maintain these isopods. It is crucial to clean the enclosure regularly. Not maintaining hygiene may attract unwanted pests and affect the isopod's health. While making provision for ventilation, it is to be ensured that mesh is provided to prevent these critters from escaping. Monitor the enclosure and make sure that the humidity and temperature are maintained. Provide supplements to meet their overall nutritional needs. Also, while placing the enclosure, keeping them in a dark place away from sunlight is essential.  

Armadillidium peraccae isopods are broad and bulky and are established quickly in terrariums and vivariums. They are active and social and are great bio-cleanup agents. Due to its unique color and shell and ease of maintenance, it has gained popularity among isopod lovers.  Armadillidium Peraccae Isopods: Key Points Place of Origin: Greece Scientific Name: Armadillidium peraccae Temperature Range: 68℉-77℉ Breeding Rate: Moderate Difficulty level: Easy Size: 1.8 cm Rareness: low Humidity Range: 45%-55% Preferred Diet: potatoes, squash, carrots Supplements in Addition: limestone, cuttlebone, supreme isopod chow Armadillidium Peraccae Isopods: Introduction The Armadillidium Peraccae is native to Greece. The species name “peraccae” is named in honor of Italian herpetologist Mario Giacinto Peracca around the 19th and 20th centuries. Armadillidium Peraccae is a unique species that is relatively easy to care for and has an intriguing shell texture and color. This fascinating and common species is a wonderful addition to the isopod collection. Armadillidium Peraccae Isopods: Characteristics and Physical Traits The genus name “Armadillidium” means “little armored one.”  These species are blueish slate grey in color. They are broad, have a unique-looking shell, and have small bumps on their carapace. These species are roly polies, i.e., they roll into a ball when threatened.  This species has a primordial appearance and is reminiscent of trilobites.   These medium-sized isopods are active and social.  Peraccae isopods thrive in both arid and temperate environments. These critters are highly active during the night and early morning. These are not widely distributed outside of their native land, although they are common among isopod enthusiasts. Due to its ease of maintenance and tolerance to various climates, they are common among hobbyists. Larger amphibians and reptiles consume the adult isopods, except poison dart frogs. They are highly prolific species, and they produce before reaching adulthood.  These species are hardy and grow reasonably quickly. Armadillidium Peracce Isopods: Diet These species are primarily detritivores in nature. In the wild, these creatures have a large appetite and consume dried leaves, rotting wood, and feces. For a balanced diet, these species are fed with a wide range of food. These include potatoes, fruits, vegetable scraps along with isopod food mix to meet all the nutritional requirements. Make sure to feed them twice a week to avoid overfeeding.  The Armadillidium Peracce isopods require lots of calcium and protein for their diet. This is to maintain their tough exoskeleton and for molting. Therefore, these species require protein three times a week, along with calcium supplements like calcium powder and cuttlebone. This helps to keep the isopods healthy and produce offspring.  Armadillidium Peracce Isopods: Breeding They are one of the most proficient species among other isopod species.  They produce offspring throughout the year.  The young isopods are hearty, and they grow pretty quickly.  They reproduce before reaching adulthood and, therefore, may produce large broods.  When culturing these species, make sure to provide the necessary moisture, around 50%, to make the environment ideal for breeding. When the population exceeds, make sure to prepare another enclosure and separate new broods from old ones.  Armadillidium Peracce Isopods: Care These critters are easy to maintain and are less demanding when compared to other species. They require a basic organic compost as a substrate mix with leaf litter scattered on top of the substrate mix. Provide suitable hides such as bark slabs and moisture. These species require medium to high ventilation. Temperature for the enclosure may not affect the isopods as they are tolerant in nature. It is crucial to avoid extreme temperatures as it may stress these critters.  When providing moisture, it is important to maintain a moisture gradient. The inconsistent atmosphere may affect the species during molting. Therefore, it is important to maintain a damp and dry environment by 30/70. To maintain the moisture, mist the area with sphagnum moss and leave the rest dry.  Armadillidium Peraccae Isopods: Artificial Setup For a successful setup, use plastic shoe box tubs of 6 qt to 32 qt. Locking tubs is optional, but it may provide added security.  Glass containers with ventilations provided can also be a better alternative, as they help people see better. It is best for those who like to watch these critters crawl around in the enclosure.  Make small holes on the side of the container for cross-ventilation and to prevent mold.  Add pre-soaked substrate mix into the container. Make sure to provide a thick bedding of 1-3 inches.  Distribute dried leaves inside the enclosure. Make sure to clean the leaves with water and dry them before adding them to the enclosure. Add ⅕ th of the container with sphagnum moss and mist the area with moss. This gives isopods the room they need to osmoregulate and maintain homeostasis. Add plenty of rotten white wood as they prefer hiding underneath bark. Provide a calcium supplement into the enclosure. Adding a cuttlebone piece can help if the substrate doesn’t have any other calcium supplement.  Add egg shells or crushed calcium carbonate as a substitute for the cuttlebone.  Armadillidium Peraccae Isopods: Substrate These species prefer a less humid habitat; therefore, one must make sure to maintain the moisture accordingly. When providing substrate mix for the peraccae isopods, it is important to provide the best, especially for molting. Providing organic compost soil can act as a base for the substrate. Apart from the soil, you can opt for ABG substrate mix or other premium isopod mix for the substrate. These pre-mixed substrates include all the elements that will help an isopod breed and live. They consist of:  Organic potting soil Flake soil Sphagnum moss Dried and decayed leaves Oyster sea shell as a supplement Pour the substrate into an enclosure and make sure the depth is right. It is crucial that you never let the substrate get too dry. When the substrate starts to seem more like frass than the substrate, replace it entirely and add more when needed. Take care not to disturb the isopod in molting. In order to prevent attracting harmful pests, any uneaten food items added within 24 hours must always be removed.  

Miyako isopods are also known as Japanese Red Edge, are another rare species of isopods found. These species are indigenous to the Miyako island of Japan. Due to its striking reddish orange colouration and characteristics makes them unique. Due to the rarity of these species, these are highly sought after by exotic pets who love to collect rare species.  Miyako Isopods: Summary ●      Place of Origin: Miyako Island, Japan ●      Scientific Term: Cubaris sp. "Miyako" ●      Common Name: Miyako Island Isopod ●      Maintenance level: Easy ●      Temperature Range: 68℉-86℉ ●      Size: 1.3 cm ●      Rareness: High ●      Breeding Difficulty: medium ●      Humidity Range: 60% -80% ●      Preferred diet: decaying wood, leaf litter ●      Supplements: Calcium powder, Limestone Miyako Isopods: Abstract These species are found in the limestone island of South Japan. They have a shiny body with bright reddish orange exoskeleton on the skirts and antenna and have a dark black body. For those who are unfamiliar to this species, they may misunderstand this as Cubaris sp. Red Edge. These species have characteristics similar to other cubaris species and require high humidity in their habitat. Miyako Isopods: Physical Traits and Characteristics ●      Indigenous to the Miyako island of Japan, thus the rarity of this species. ●      They are fearless and don't roll as often as other roly polys. ●      Has a smooth carapace with a striking reddish-orange color on the skirts and antennae. ●      They are formally described as Cubaris Iriomotensis, but there is still debate on the classification of these species. ●      It looks similar to the Cubaris Murina Red Edge and, therefore, may get confused if not familiar with the species. ●      These species really enjoy burrowing and so require a thick substrate in their enclosure. ●      Prefer decayed vegetation and wood as they are common in the habitat they are from ●      They require higher calcium and protein compared to other isopods for better health and molting. ●      Easy to maintain but slightly difficult to breed. Therefore, it requires care and attention. Miyako Isopods: Diet Requirements These species prefer decaying organic matter as a primary source of food. But it is essential to provide a balanced diet. These species, like many cubaris sp., require high calcium and protein in their diet. Therefore, it is important to feed them calcium supplements or cuttlebones in the enclosure to meet the calcium requirements. Fish pellets and meat scraps are the best sources of protein and have to be paired with calcium supplements. Other foods for the isopods include pulverized grains, beans and mushrooms can be added into the enclosure. Make sure to provide small food portions in the beginning and observe their eating habits. Slowly increase the amount a bit and make sure not to overfeed them as it can attract pests. Miyako Isopods: Basic Steps for Care ●      A shoebox-size plastic container may be suitable for an enclosure for these tiny species. However, it is best to invest in a glass enclosure to appreciate its beauty, movements, and activity. ●      Make sure the enclosure that you have opted for has ventilation provisions. If not, provide holes around the container. ●      Make sure that the ventilation outlets are not too big, as these species require high moisture. Also, they tend to escape through the ventilation, so it is best to add mesh to the ventilation openings. ●      It is essential to have a perfect balance between the moisture content and the provision for ventilation used in the container. This will help to provide a good environment for the isopods, and they will enjoy better living conditions. ●      The container in which these species are kept should have a controlled lighting mechanism. They are not comfortable with high bright light and prefer dim lights. ●      While feeding the isopods, it is very important to ensure that a mix of decayed leaves and bark is provided. It is also important to ensure that the dried leaves have no pesticide or chemical content. The presence of any kind of chemical compound can severely affect the life span of the species. ●      Adding moss in the enclosure also acts as a hiding place for the isopods and something for these species to snack on. Make sure to add moss periodically to maintain the ecosystem and serve as food for these species. ●      Adding a piece of cuttlebone can help the isopods achieve their calcium intake. Also, when preparing a substrate mix, add earthworm castings in it to provide protein in their diet. ●      When taking care of the isopods, make sure not to pick them up or touch them often, as it may cause stress to these species. Make sure to make less contact with them unless it is for transferring them to different enclosures. Miyako Isopods: Artificial Habitat Cubaris sp. Miyako Isopods are native to the tropical forest of Miyako Island in Japan. These species are more commonly found in highly humid areas with less ventilation. Though these species are very easy to maintain, they can be a tad bit tricky to establish in any artificial container. Therefore, it is important to replicate their natural environment and their native habitat for culturing and for overall well being of the species. In an enclosure, make sure to provide a suitable standard-sized 6 qt container as the frame for the artificial setting. DIY plastic boxes are cheap and effective for culturing, but if you want to watch and appreciate these species' colors and want to observe their activities, glass containers are the best option. When placing the isopods inside the container, ensure there aren't many air ventilation outlets. Too many outlets may result in a decline in humidity within the enclosure, harming the isopod's overall health and well-being. For the substrate make sure to include elements such as flake soil, sphagnum moss, leaf litter, and finally the isopod and springtail mix into the enclosure. Make sure to provide a thick bedding of 4 inches to 6 inches approx. as these species like to dig. When providing moisture make sure that it is done in such a way that it has both dry and wet areas. Add rotten wooden bark inside for creating hiding space as well as for the aesthetic appeal. Add limestone pieces or cuttlebone for nutrition and to mimic their natural environment. Include elements like egg cartons and coconut halves as well for the isopods to explore and to bring out their natural habits like foraging. The temperature for the enclosure should not be above or below the desired temperature. By following these guidelines, you can have healthy, thriving isopods in your enclosure to culture and admire them as pets.

The Cubaris sp. 'Salmon' Martinique isopods are one of the rarest species of isopods and have unique appearances. Due to its rarity, these species are not found everywhere. These species are endemic to the Caribbean region and are beginner-friendly.  Cubaris Sp. Salmon Isopods: Key Points Scientific Name: Cubaris sp.  Temperature Range: 71℉-80℉ Breeding Rate: Moderate Place of Origin: Martinique, France Size: 1.6 cm Rareness: High Difficulty level: Moderate Humidity Range: High Preferred diet: dead plants, leaves, algae, sweet potato Supplements in Addition: Calcium powder, cuttlefish bone Cubaris Sp. Salmon Isopods Isopods: Abstract Salmon Isopods are one of the cutest species among other Cubaris sp. These are native to the Martinique region of France. Due to its striking salmon-like hue and shape, this naturally formed morph of cubaris species is rare to find. These creatures are a great addition to the vivarium and terrariums.  Cubaris Sp. Salmon Isopods: Appearance and Characteristics These species have a thick exoskeleton and have the ability to conglobate or roll up. These species grow up to 1.6 cm in length. These creatures are nocturnal in nature and prefer foraging for food at night.  Has a deep orange-pinkish color. Due to its color and shape, it resembles the salmon on sushi.  They breed throughout the year and produce a decent number of broods. These species are tolerant to extreme temperatures and are beginner and kid-friendly. These species consume dead plants and algae. They are not picky eaters and, therefore, eat vegetables as well.  These species are naturally from the region with high humidity.  These species are not found everywhere and are endemic to the Caribbean Sea area of Martinique.  Cubaris Sp. Salmon Isopods: Diet These species are not picky eaters and they pretty much eat anything for nourishment. When cultured in an enclosure, providing a balanced diet is important. Therefore add vegetables like potato, vegetable scraps and leafy veggies into the enclosure.  These species require a protein- and calcium-rich diet for a healthy exoskeleton and molting. Providing fish food flakes and meat scrap may provide protein, and adding calcium powder or crushed oyster shells provides calcium. Make sure to feed them twice a day for optimum health and healthy offspring.  Make sure to feed these species only the necessary amount of food that can be completed in a single sitting. Overfeeding the isopod with food may attract pests; therefore, it is crucial to monitor portions of the diet.  Cubaris Sp. Salmon Isopods: Basic Care For the enclosure, using a plastic box of 6 qt may be suitable. Glass enclosures can also be provided for those who like to watch them explore the environment and foraging.  Locking tubs can be provided to prevent these species from escaping and to maintain moisture.  Provide small holes around the enclosure. Make sure to provide fewer holes, as these species require high moisture.  It is important to maintain high humidity inside the enclosure. When maintaining, mist ¾ th of the enclosure. These species appreciate darkness; therefore, make sure to store them in a dark place away from sunlight. Add dried leaves that are cleaned with water to ensure that there are no pesticides or any other chemicals present. Add moss into the enclosure for the isopods to hide and also eat as a snack. Add rotten wooden bark into the enclosure for the colonies to hide.  Provide calcium supplements into the enclosure and make sure their calcium requirement is fulfilled.   Por protein adding dried fish flakes and earthworm castings into the enclosure.  Cubaris Sp. Salmon Isopods: Habitat The Cubaris sp. Salmon Isopods are originally from the tropical regions of France. They are found in areas with high moisture and less ventilated areas. Therefore, when providing an enclosure, it is crucial to replicate their natural habitat. For the enclosure, a shoebox-size quantity made of plastic or glass is suitable. Since these have moderate breeding rates and have small to average broods, this size is suitable for these critters.  However, when inside the container or enclosure, make sure there aren't too many air ventilation holes. Many air holes may result in a decline in interior humidity, causing problems for the isopods. Also, giving them a variety of options for burrowing deep is beneficial. They are known to be good burrowers. They strive to keep their bodies moist by burrowing and hiding deep. To make sure there is enough ground cover for them to burrow deep, it is ideal to provide a thick substrate. It's vital to remember that the excessive humidity inside the cage typically attracts pests. To prevent pests, adding springtails can be a great companion for the isopods. These help to prevent mold, thus keeping the enclosure clean.  The Salmon Isopods breed throughout the year. To maintain optimum health and breeding, it is important to maintain the temperature of the enclosure. For these species, make sure to maintain an ideal temperature of around 22℃ to 27℃. Cubaris Sp. Salmon Isopods: Substrate Mix For these species, it is important to make sure that the substrate mix retains moisture and supports micro climate inside the enclosure. Therefore it is recommended to provide ABG Mix as the base for the enclosure.  ABG mix helps to balance the elements, such as better drainage, great water retention capabilities, and the capacity to retain nutrients, and it lasts long. The ABG mix consists of:- Sphagnum moss Orchid Bark Tree fern fiber Charcoal Peat Moss When adding ABG Mix into the enclosure, make sure to provide thick bedding. Salmon Isopods like to dig to retain their moisture; therefore, it is important to provide 3-4 inches of thickness to the substrate.  These species like to hide during the day and forage during nighttime. Therefore, provide organic hides like coconut shells, lotus pods, and egg crates. These hides help to form their individual colonies and prevent competition among other males. When making the enclosure spread some calcium powder or cuttlebone and earthworm castings into the enclosure for nutrition.  In the end, add plenty of dried rotten leaves into the enclosure. Mist the enclosure and make sure that the humidity gradient should be three parts wet and one part dry.  Following the above methods will help to provide a healthy culture of isopods that is thriving in the artificial setting.  Cubaris Sp. Salmon Isopods: Precaution There are two types of Salmon Isopods available: one belongs in the sea and is parasitic in nature, and the other is a harmless terrestrial creature. Therefore, when investing in these isopods, make sure to be well-informed and purchase from well-reputed websites.   

Commonly known as Red Diablo isopods, these creatures are native to Vietnam. They are famous for their colorful patterns and large body. They feature a sharp black color on most parts of their body. This black color makes the rest of the colors pop out. Due to their attractive body color, they are sold worldwide in large numbers. A Glimpse Origin: Vietnam Scientific Name: Merulanella sp. Difficulty Level: Medium Size: Up to 1.5 cm Rarity: Very High Temperature: 70F to 78F Humidity: 60% to 80% Favourite Foods: Carrot, Mango, Leaf Litter Merulanella sp. Red Diablo Isopods: An Overview Red Diablo isopods are known for their unique colors. They usually feature bright colors like red, yellow, and black. They are not a burrowing species. So, these are great for displaying requirements.  They remain at the top of the substrate mix throughout the day and night. This high visibility, along with their colorful patterns, make them the best isopod pets for display.  Red Diablo isopods are pretty fast breeders. So, while buying them, getting a set is advisable so they will breed soon. As these creatures are extremely easy to take care of, you can even maintain a colony of them easily. Red Diablo isopods are detritivores. They like to consume dead and decaying matter. You must put enough decaying matter and leaf litter inside the tank to help them survive better.  They also need calcium supplements occasionally. The keeper has to provide enough attention to provide them with a balanced diet to avoid undernourishment. Merulanella sp. Red Diablo Isopods: Basic Care Red Diablo isopods need to have good care. They are not easy to care for. Stabilization is significant for this species. Almost all of the Merulanella species require good primary care. You must check whether the isopods you buy are wild-caught or bred in captivity. If they are wild-caught, ensure that they are only shipped to you after a period of stabilization.  Stabilization means the time and process an isopod may take to get used to its new surroundings. When a Red Diablo is caught from the wild and is enclosed in a tank, chances are high for it to die soon. So, you have to ensure that the isopods you buy are bred in captivity. Such isopods would take relatively little time for stabilization.  For stabilization, you have to follow the steps below. Recreate the natural habitat of a Red Diablo isopod.  There should be a reasonably thick substrate mix with decaying organic matter.  The tank should have plenty of leaf and flat bark cover.  The isopods should be fed now and then.  They must also be supplemented with calcium and similar nutrients at regular intervals.  Make sure not to make them interact with other animals until they are stabilized. Feeding Red Diablo isopods are primarily detritivores. Dead and decaying matter and leaf litter are the most common food they consume. They are also very fond of vegetables like carrots and fruits like mangoes. They prefer decaying vegetables and fruits to the fresh ones. Red Diablo isopods must have various supplements as part of their diet. Calcium supplements are the most important dietary requirement for Merulanella sp. Red Diablo isopods. You can use ready-made calcium powder or cuttlebone to supplement calcium. These isopods also require nitrogen supplements. You can use bat guano to supplement nitrogen. Bat guano is bat excrement that is an excellent source of nitrogen. To supplement the Red Diablo isopods with all other essential nutrients, you can use bee pollen extracts and supplements. Bee pollen is a good and trusted source of antioxidants, minerals, and various vitamins. Appearance and Behavior Appearance These have a round body. The shell mostly contains black color. The red appears in the margins of the body. The yellow is usually present as spots throughout the isopod’s body. Some Red Diablo isopods have white spots instead of the yellow ones. Red Diablo isopod has a segmented body. Not every segment has separate limbs. They usually reach up to 1.5cm to 2cm as adults. Their heads have a pair of antennae. They have a relatively low lifespan. They only live up to three months. Behavior Red Diablo isopods are generally found in groups. They create groups of two or three in their natural habitats. They are usually found under flat barks and leaf litter. Due to this group dynamics, it is advisable to buy them in pairs. These isopods are very fast runners. They are highly active when compared to the other isopods. They exhibit a high sense of territory. So, they prefer to move in groups and attack other species that come into their territory.  In the initial days, they will remain undercover to observe the surroundings. Once they are used to their surroundings, they will interact with each other. Keeping them separated from other animals is advisable. They tend to be a bit aggressive against other isopod species. Merulanella sp. Red Diablo Isopods: Habitat Red Diablo isopods are generally found in low temperatures and high-humidity areas. They usually prefer moist areas. But it is also essential for them not to have the soil dripping wet. So, while recreating their natural habitat within a tank, you must retain maximum moisture. You can follow the steps below to make a natural habitat for the Red Diablo isopods inside the tank. Fill the tank with substrate mix and soil only to a certain height. The Red Diablo isopods do not burrow. So, the height of the soil does not matter.   On the soil's surface, put a baselining that retains moisture by absorbing the water content.   Over the baselining, leave a layer of leaf litter for cover.   You can spray or even pump water onto the soil to provide the isopods with enough moisture.   Try not to make the entire tank moist. You will need a dry patch of soil to leave food and supplements for the isopods.   You should also lay on the surface rotting vegetables, wood bark, etc.