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Ember Bee Isopods (Ardentiella sp.)
from £65.00
Despite the 10,000 species already existing, not even two are familiar, which makes them even more fascinating for keepers and hobbyists to value. Ember Bee Isopods is one such exotic species you can own as a pet. These crustaceans are from Vietnam and are found in highly humid areas, an essential aspect of their natural habitat. But before you get your hands on them, you have a few things to learn that we have covered in the lines below.
Ember Bee Isopods: A Glimpse
Origin: Vietnam
Scientific Name: Merulanella sp.
Rarity: Not rare
Difficulty: Moderate
Temperature: 22-26°C
Size: Up to 2 cm
Humidity: High
Favorable Foods: Fruits, greens, veggies, forest moss, decaying leaves, lichen, rotting white wood, kinship.
An Overview
Ember Bee Isopods are popular for the stunning patterns on their bodies, which feature a combination of colors like yellow, red, orange, and black. Each boasts a different color pattern and can grow up to 2 cm long, making them bigger than other isopods.
Their vivid coloration attracts the keepers, and one thing which is not found in any isopod is that they wander and explore the environment during day and night.
As for humidity, Ember Bee isopods live in humid areas, where temperature doesn’t fluctuate much and is between 22 and 26°C.
Ember Bee Isopods: Basic Care
Taking their proper care will do the needful for their health. Some tips that will help you get through their care are shared below.
Their preferred temperature in which they thrive the most is between 22 and 26°C.
Very uncommon to found in any species, they prefer high humidity from 60% to 75%, as this will keep them moist and prevent them from oversaturating.
Provide airflow so no mold or bacteria can grow inside the enclosure and harm your isopods.
Use a secure, escape-proof terrarium, as these isopods, mainly the younger ones, can easily climb vertical surfaces and escape the enclosure.
Feeding
Their diet is not strict and they eat a lot of thing, making it easier for you to easily avail them including leaf litter, fruits, vegetables, kinship, and more. You can provide these items and a few supplements like cuttlebone or limestone to make their diet healthier and more nutritious. Since they eat a lot, you will need a constant supply of decomposing leaves, a large portion of their appetite. Add dried shrimp or fish flakes for protein supplements, as they are good for reproduction and health.
Ember Bee Isopods: Appearance & Behaviour
Their peculiar color combination of bright orange and yellow stripes helps them camouflage, protecting them against predators.
Ember Bee isopods are active both at sunrise and sunset, roaming through the terrarium.
They hang in groups given to their social nature characteristic and engage in activities like foraging and grooming.
Ember Bee Isopods: Habitat
Ember Bee Isopods cannot survive outside a habitat that doesn’t match their natural environment. You must create a similar setup where they get the right humidity and temperature and live without discomfort. Maintain a moist environment so your isopods can always be happy and healthy. They also need hiding spots to seek shelter and rest when not active. Also, add vertical elements like branches or bark pieces so that they can practice climbing, an important character trait.
Substrate Mix
You can create a substrate mix by mixing coconut coir and organic soil, two of the best materials for retaining moisture. After the base layer is ready, add leaf Litter so your isopods have a continuous food source to munch on. To make the enclosure better, you can add sphagnum moss, which can also retain moisture well. Also, include pieces of rotting wood so your isopods have foraging material ready.
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Red Diablo Isopods (Ardentiella sp.)
from £80.00
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.
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Thunder Dragon Isopods (Ardentiella)
from £150.00
Thunder Dragon Isopods: A Glimpse
Origin: Thailand
Scientific Name: Ardentiella (ex Merulanella)
Size: Up to 17 mm
Difficulty Level: Moderate to advanced
Temperature: 21-28°C
Humidity: 70-85%
Rarity: Very rare
Favorite Foods: Fruits, greens, fish food, vegetables, decaying leaves, rotting wood.
An Overview
A Ardentiella genus isopod, Thunder Dragons is native to Thailand. However, they are extremely rare, which is why they cannot be found easily, not even in the pet trade.
Known for their bold look and unique charm, they thrive in specific conditions, without which they cannot survive or have molting issues. They prefer high-humidity areas, where temperatures don’t rise above 21-28°C or fluctuate much.
Thunder Dragon isopods are not just pets but nature’s magic. They are adorable to look at when they move around in their enclosure in captivity. Because of their strong bodies and calm nature, they are easy to love, but they have care requirements above basic.
Thunder Dragon Isopods: Basic Care
With some basic care tips, you can easily maintain Thunder Dragon isopods as pets:
Their priority is a clean moist environment with good airflow and ventilation to breathe easily and not feel discomfort.
Maintain a stable and humid environment and to achieve one, you should create one in captivity and give them a chance to live their best lives without health issues.
With using a plastic container, you can create their enclosure, but it should be big and have enough space for them to move around freely without feeling cramped.
Keep an eye on the enclosure regularly and ensure it is not too dry or wet, as these conditions can create problems.
Thunder Dragon Isopods: Feeding
A balanced diet consisting of vegetables, dry leaves, rotting wood, and fruits ensures your isopods are healthy and get the nutrients required. For calcium sources, give cuttlebone because it is good for its exoskeleton and helps it develop better.
Thunder Dragon Isopods: Appearance & Behaviour
Might be an eye-catching creatures, but they have a hard, armor-like shell protecting them from predators if attacked.
Their dark grey shade with a hint of purple or blue on their back enhances their appeal and makes them stand out from other species.
Although they move slowly, they are very curious about their surroundings and become active at night, when the world is asleep and there are no threats around.
Thunder Dragon Isopods: Habitat
Creating the right habitat for Thunder Dragon Isopods is essential because, without it, they cannot survive or be happy, no matter how hard they try. They prefer a moist setup and stable temperature to live comfortably and not face health issues like they do when the specific conditions change drastically. Since they stay in hiding, adding plenty of cork bark, rocks, and leaf litter encourages their natural behavior, so make sure not to mess that up.
Thunder Dragon Isopods: Substrate Mix
Making a ground material for their terrarium is not that of a difficult task and you can mix dried leaves, organic soil, and coco fiber, but ensure they are free of chemicals, or else they can harm your isopods. Adding a few pieces of rotten wood and crushed eggshells because they provide important minerals and ensure their exoskeleton doesn’t weaken is a good call.
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Yellow Pastel Isopods (Ardentiella sp.)
from £200.00
Yellow Pastel Isopods represent one of the most spectacular and coveted species in the Ardentiella genus. Originally classified under Merulanella, these extraordinary Vietnamese natives have captivated collectors worldwide with their luminous yellow coloration and remarkably active personalities. These arboreal wonders bring an unparalleled combination of beauty, behaviour, and biological fascination to any advanced terrarium setup.
Species Overview
Place of Origin: Vietnam
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Crustacea
Order: Isopoda
Family: Armadillidiidae
Genus: Ardentiella
Species: Ardentiella sp. "Yellow Pastel"
Key Care Requirements
Maintenance Effort: Moderate to Advanced
Ideal Temperature Range: 66°F-79°F (19°C-26°C)
Reproduction Rate: Moderate to Prolific
Ventilation: High (Escape-proof Required)
General Size: 18-20mm
Rarity Level: Extremely High
Humidity Range: 60%-75%
Activity Pattern: Day and Night Active
Preferred Diet: Leaf litter, vegetables, protein supplements, moss
The Magnificent Yellow Pastel Morph
Yellow Pastel Isopods showcase one of nature's most stunning examples of isopod coloration. Their vibrant yellow pigmentation creates a striking contrast against their darker segmented bodies, producing an almost iridescent quality that changes subtly under different lighting conditions. This remarkable colouration has made them one of the most photographed and sought-after morphs in the entire Ardentiella lineage.
The pastel yellow hues range from soft butter tones to more intense golden yellows, with individual specimens often displaying subtle variations that make each isopod unique. Their segmented exoskeleton creates beautiful patterns as the yellow pigmentation interacts with their natural body structure, resulting in a truly mesmerising appearance that has earned them recognition as living jewels of the terrarium world.
Taxonomic Background and Classification
These remarkable creatures were originally classified under the genus Merulanella but have been reclassified as Ardentiella following recent taxonomic revisions. This reclassification was based on detailed morphological studies and genetic sequencing that revealed distinct evolutionary differences, justifying the creation of this new genus. Understanding this taxonomic history is essential for serious collectors who want to make informed choices about their collections.
The Ardentiella genus encompasses some of the most visually spectacular isopods available in the hobby, with Yellow Pastel representing one of the pinnacle achievements in captive breeding and selection. Their development represents years of careful breeding work by dedicated enthusiasts who have selectively maintained and enhanced these extraordinary colour morphs.
Natural Habitat and Behaviour
In their native Vietnam, Yellow Pastel Isopods inhabit the humid tropical forests where they demonstrate their remarkable arboreal lifestyle. Unlike many terrestrial isopod species, Ardentiella species are accomplished climbers, utilising their specialised appendages to navigate vertical surfaces with surprising agility.
These isopods are exceptionally active creatures, displaying both diurnal and nocturnal activity patterns that make them excellent subjects for observation. Their vibrant personalities match their striking appearance - they're constantly exploring their environment, climbing branches, investigating food sources, and interacting with their surroundings in ways that make them endlessly fascinating to watch.
Their natural forest environment provides the template for successful captive care. In the wild, they inhabit areas with consistent moisture, abundant organic matter, and complex three-dimensional structures that support their climbing behaviour. This makes them exceptional candidates for bioactive vivariums designed to replicate tropical forest ecosystems.
Physical Characteristics and Size
Adult Yellow Pastel Isopods reach an impressive 18-20mm in length, making them substantial enough to appreciate their intricate details whilst remaining manageable in captive environments. Their robust build and well-developed appendages reflect their active lifestyle and climbing abilities.
Beyond their stunning coloration, these isopods possess the characteristic Armadillidiidae family traits - they can roll into protective balls when threatened, demonstrating the classic "pill bug" behaviour that has fascinated people for generations. Their antennae are proportionally longer than many terrestrial species, an adaptation that serves them well in their arboreal lifestyle.
The segmented nature of their exoskeleton creates beautiful geometric patterns, particularly striking when combined with their yellow pigmentation. Each segment displays subtle variations in colour intensity, creating a natural gradient effect that enhances their overall visual appeal.
Advanced Dietary Requirements
Yellow Pastel Isopods require a diverse and carefully balanced diet that reflects their active metabolism and specific nutritional needs. Understanding their feeding habits is crucial for maintaining healthy, vibrant colonies.
The foundation of their diet should consist of high-quality aged leaf litter from oak, beech, or similar deciduous trees. This provides essential nutrients and supports the beneficial microbial communities that these isopods depend upon. Forest moss and lichen add important trace elements and create the complex nutritional profile they would encounter in their natural habitat.
Supplement their natural diet with fresh organic vegetables including carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, and leafy greens. Protein supplementation is particularly important for this active species - offer dried shrimp, fish flakes, or specialised isopod protein foods 2-3 times weekly to support their high activity levels and successful reproduction.
Calcium supplementation remains critical for proper exoskeleton development. Provide cuttlefish bone, oyster shells, or limestone chips to ensure adequate calcium availability. Interestingly, Yellow Pastel Isopods have shown sensitivity to bee pollen, so this common isopod supplement should be avoided with this species.
Specialised Housing Requirements
Successfully housing Yellow Pastel Isopods requires understanding their unique arboreal nature and exceptional climbing abilities. These isopods can climb vertically on smooth plastic surfaces much like cockroaches, making escape-proof enclosures absolutely essential.
Design enclosures with secure, tight-fitting lids that cannot be dislodged by climbing isopods. Use fine mesh ventilation that provides excellent airflow whilst preventing escapes - even the smallest gaps can be exploited by determined juveniles. Consider using aquarium-style tanks with secure locking mechanisms for peace of mind.
Create a layered substrate system similar to successful Cubaris setups. Start with a moisture-retentive base layer, add aged leaf litter, incorporate forest moss and pieces of rotting wood, then top with cork bark and branching wood to create the three-dimensional environment these arboreal species require.
Provide multiple levels of cork bark, driftwood branches, and even artificial climbing structures to satisfy their natural climbing instincts. The enclosure should offer both horizontal and vertical exploration opportunities, with plenty of hiding spots at different levels to accommodate their complex behavioural needs.
Environmental Parameters
Yellow Pastel Isopods prefer slightly cooler conditions than many tropical species, thriving in temperatures between 66-79°F (19-26°C). This moderate temperature range makes them suitable for most indoor environments without additional heating, though consistency is more important than achieving perfect temperatures.
Maintain humidity levels between 60-75% through regular misting and moisture-retentive substrates. However, avoid oversaturating the enclosure - these isopods require high air humidity but not waterlogged soil. Create moisture gradients within the enclosure so individuals can self-regulate their exposure to different humidity levels.
Excellent ventilation is non-negotiable for this species. Poor air circulation leads to stagnant conditions that can quickly result in mould issues and stressed colonies. Design ventilation systems that provide consistent airflow whilst maintaining appropriate humidity levels.
Breeding and Colony Development
Yellow Pastel Isopods can be prolific breeders under optimal conditions, though success requires patience and attention to detail. Captive-bred specimens generally reproduce more readily than wild-caught individuals, making established captive lines highly valuable.
Females carry their eggs in a marsupium for several weeks before releasing fully-formed miniature isopods called mancae. These juveniles inherit the stunning yellow coloration from birth, though the intensity often develops further as they mature through successive moults.
Young isopods are particularly adept climbers and escape artists, requiring extra vigilance regarding enclosure security. They remain with their mother for the first few weeks of life, receiving nutrition and protection during their most vulnerable period. Building a thriving colony of these magnificent creatures represents a significant achievement in the hobby.
Care Difficulty and Considerations
Yellow Pastel Isopods are classified as moderate to advanced difficulty species, making them most suitable for keepers with prior isopod experience. Their specific requirements regarding enclosure security, environmental parameters, and dietary needs demand more attention than beginner-friendly species.
Success with this species requires understanding their arboreal nature, escape tendencies, and sensitivity to environmental changes. They're less forgiving of care mistakes than hardy species like Porcellio or basic Armadillidium varieties, but dedicated keepers who meet their needs will be rewarded with one of the most spectacular isopods available in the hobby.
The investment in proper setup and ongoing care is substantial, but the results - watching these living jewels explore their elaborate habitats whilst displaying their incredible colours - make every effort worthwhile for serious collectors.
Bioactive Terrarium Applications
Yellow Pastel Isopods excel as cleanup crew members in bioactive vivariums, where their natural behaviours complement planted tropical setups perfectly. Their arboreal nature means they occupy different ecological niches than ground-dwelling species, making them excellent for multi-species bioactive systems.
Unlike some isopods that may damage delicate plants, Ardentiella species focus primarily on decaying organic matter and generally leave healthy plant material untouched. This makes them valuable additions to planted terrariums housing tropical reptiles, amphibians, or invertebrates.
Their climbing behaviour creates natural interaction opportunities in tall planted enclosures, where they can be observed moving through different canopy levels whilst performing their ecological functions. The combination of their practical benefits and incredible visual appeal makes them premium choices for high-end bioactive installations.
The Premium Collection Experience
Yellow Pastel Isopods represent the pinnacle of isopod collecting - combining exceptional beauty, fascinating behaviour, and significant rarity into a single remarkable species. They appeal to collectors seeking unique and unusual species that stand apart from conventional offerings.
Their substantial value reflects not just their rarity, but the years of careful breeding work required to develop and maintain these extraordinary colour morphs. Each specimen represents a piece of living art that continues to evolve and develop throughout its lifecycle.
For serious collectors building premium isopod collections, Yellow Pastel Isopods offer an opportunity to own one of the most spectacular examples of terrestrial crustacean beauty available anywhere in the world. They represent both a significant investment and a gateway to the most advanced aspects of isopod keeping.
Future Potential and Breeding Projects
The genetic potential within Yellow Pastel Isopod lines continues to reveal new possibilities for future morphs and colour variations. Dedicated breeders working with these lines often discover subtle variations that could lead to entirely new morphs, making them exciting subjects for long-term breeding projects.
Their proven ability to maintain colour consistency through generations makes them excellent foundation stock for serious breeding programs. The combination of their established genetics and ongoing potential for new discoveries positions them at the forefront of isopod breeding innovation.
Shipping Information
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Essential Reading for Advanced Keepers
How to Choose the Right Isopod Species
What Do Woodlice Eat? Top Foods and Feeding Habits Explained
Top Isopod Species for Your Vivarium
Expanding Your Isopod Collection
The Best New and Unusual Isopods
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Phoenix Isopods (Ardentiella sp.)
from £80.00
Phoenix Isopods have their origin in Vietnam. Their name is based on their appearance. They exhibit the colour variations of red, black and yellow, which are predominant in the mythical bird phoenix. They are considered a superb display species. They are extremely rare to find. Once they are established in the enclosure, they can easily be bred. Care needs to be taken regarding the enclosure, as these species are more active than most other species of isopods.
Key Points
Origin: Vietnam
Scientific Name: Merulanells sp. Phoenix
Difficulty Level: Easy
Size: 2CM Max.
Rarity: Extremely Rare
Temperature: 18-24˚C
Humidity Level: Medium
Preferred Foods: Leaf litter, decayed wood, cuttlefish bone, limestone, etc.
An Overview
Phoenix Isopods are a highly colourful species of isopods. The hard exoskeleton provides both protection and aesthetic appeal to these isopods. The colouration of the exoskeleton makes them a significant choice for the enclosures. They are a highly active category of species. They need large spaces within the enclosures to move around. They have a very similar appearance to that of Merulanella tricolor isopods. But they are different in several aspects.
The original climate these species are accustomed to is tropical. Hence, they require moisture and plenty of ventilation to survive in an enclosure. They can tolerate humid environments easily. Care should be taken because their temperatures should
stay high enough and stay cool.
Phoenix isopods are extremely rare to find. Hence, they are a species of isopods in demand by several collectors. Once established in a vivarium, they breed comparatively similar to most other species of isopods.
The general pattern followed by merulanella isopods for feeding must also be followed for Phoenix isopods. Hence, decaying wood and leaf litter forms the basic diet for these isopods. Cuttlefish bone, fish food, limestone, etc., can act as supplements to improve their growth.
Phoenix Isopods: Basic Care
Phoenix Isopods can be taken care of through the following points:
The tropical origin of Phoenix isopods allows them to survive in hot environments. They can also withstand some amount of coldness.
Isopods coming from tropical environments require moisture to stay close to their origins.
Phoenix isopods require a solid enclosure, and they are extremely rare to find. Hence, they are an advanced species for seasoned collectors.
Their breeding capability is at par with most other species of isopods.
Due to their tropical origins, Phoenix isopods require a great level of ventilation.
Burrowing is a popular practice with these isopods. Hence, they prefer to have hiding spots within their enclosure.
Preferred diet choices include leaf litter, decaying wood, cuttlefish bone, fish bone, etc.
The ideal room temperature for these species ranges between 18-24˚C.
Phoenix Isopods: Feeding
This particular species of isopods has a variety of food items to choose from. Even though they are considered an advanced species that is extremely rare to find, they are found under tropical conditions. Hence, their staple diets includes both leaf litter and decaying wood. Their dietary patterns are similar to many other species of isopods.
A perfect environment should complement the diet these isopods follow in their consumption. Leaf litter and decaying wood are ideal for their consumption. These basic items are helpful for the longer survival of these isopods. The collector can provide additional supplements according to their own choice. The only factor to note is that it should be provided regularly. Vegetable peels, dried vegetables, fish food, etc., can be provided for these isopods regularly. They find moisture levels okay for their survival. But it should not exceed the levels of possible mold growth.
Protein and calcium supplements can be provided depending on the collector's requirements. Cuttlefish bone, limestone, and fish food are all excellent supplements that can help these species of isopods grow well. Many of these products can be collected naturally or bought from diverse sources.
Phoenix Isopods are considered a very active species of isopods. They require large, spaced enclosures to scourge the area actively. Ventilation is another vital aspect that must be noted before breeding these species.
Phoenix Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour
Like many other isopods, phoenix isopods are also gifted with hard exoskeletons.
The exoskeletons are both protective and exotic.
They have the maximum growth close to 2 CM.
Their exotic appearance is a gift of their diverse coloured patterns.
This appearance makes them a species that is in high demand.
They require a lot of ventilation in the space that they are kept. This is mainly due to their natural environment being tropical.
Moisture retention is also considered a vital aspect of caring for these isopods.
They breed at good rates once established.
Phoenix Isopods: Habitat
Habitats are crucial aspects for the development of any isopods. As these are collected species from natural environments, the enclosures where they are kept should be replicated similarly to their origins. Providing basic habitat is a relatively easy task for any collectors. Phoenix isopods are extremely rare to find, even within their original habitats. But they are a species that can be maintained easily. Ensuring a proper habitat will result in more isopods breeding faster.
Humid environments are highly preferred by Phoenix isopods. As their origin is tropical, they can tolerate room temperature easily. A thermometer should be regularly used to assess the room temperature of the habitat. An important factor is that the temperature should not exceed or decrease beyond the expected level of 18-24⁰C. It can adversely affect their metabolism.
Maintaining moisture within the enclosure is a practice that should be kept for the ideal survival of these species. Supported by a number of hiding spots can enable the strong breeding of phoenix isopods in large numbers.
Phoenix isopods are a heavily active species of isopods. Providing them ample space within the enclosure is crucial for their breeding.
Phoenix Isopods: Substrate Mix
Just like every other isopod, substrate mixtures are available for Phoenix isopods as well. Both natural substrates and artificial substrates are available for these isopods. Some of the options for a natural substrate mix include- leaf litter, decaying wood, dried vegetables, etc. Artificial substrate mixtures will consist of both protein and calcium supplements that can enhance their growth.
The most important factor to consider in utilizing substrates is that it should ensure the survival of all species within the enclosure. Substrates should not hinder the development of any other species. Natural supplements like leaf litter and decaying wood should be completely pesticide-free to ensure that no toxic chemicals are present within the environment.
Burrowing is a popular activity within these species. Hence, providing ample hiding spots is important for their breeding. As part of their protein and calcium supplements in substrate, cuttlefish bone, fish food, limestone etc., should be provided. These food items can improve their growth to greater levels.
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Tri Colour Isopods (Ardentiella sp.)
from £110.00
Compared to other isopods, Ardentiella tricolour isopods are rarely sighted. They require warmer temperatures and stable environments for their survival. They make a brilliant display species.
Tricolour Isopods: A Glimpse
· Origin: Vietnam
· Scientific Name: Merulanella sp.
· Difficulty Level: Medium
· Size: 13MM to 0.55 IN.
· Rarity: Low/ Medium
· Temperature: 20⁰C to 26⁰C
· Humidity: 60-70%
· Favourite Foods: Fruits, Vegetables
Tricolour Isopods: An Overview
Merulanella Tricolour Isopods are a species of terrestrial isopods. They are commonly called pill bugs or woodlice. As the name suggests, they have a very peculiar colouration. They are highly distinct from other species of isopods. They mostly have a tricolour pattern, which includes shades of yellow, black and red.
A hard exoskeleton covers their oval-shaped body. They are gifted two pairs of antennae. They have seven pairs of legs. Their natural habitat is found to be around tropical and subtropical regions. Their distribution is thus minimal. They are most likely found in the tropical areas. This limitation in their distribution makes them a less-encountered species of isopods.
To feed tricolour isopods, the best options are a mix of vegetables, fruits, and decaying leaves. Fish flakes and commercial isopod food can be provided as supplement feeds. They rely on moist environments for their survival.
Tricolour Isopods: Basic Care
The following instructions can be helpful in providing the best care for Tricolour isopods.
· Provide a suitable habitat- Combining organic materials like sphagnum moss, leaf litter and coconut fibre can create a moist substrate ideal for their habitat.
· Maintaining dampness-Excessive moisture should be avoided as it is harmful for tricolour isopods.
· Hiding spots- This provides more naturality to the enclosure. They behave more naturally when they feel secure.
· Temperature- An ideal temperature of 20-26 degree should be maintained.
· Humidity- Humidity levels should be between 60-70%.
· Diet- A balanced diet plant matter, invertibrates and fungi should be fed to the isopods to ensure their survival.
· Specialized diets available in the market can be used to feed them.
· Monitor the conditions regularly using thermometer and hygrometer.
· Since they can climb glass and plastic, their enclosures should not have openings near the lids and doors.
Tricolour Isopods: Feeding
Tricolour isopods are mainly identified as detritivores. They consume organic decaying matter. They can also feed on fruits, vegetables, leaf litter, rotting wood, etc.
They are crucial in breaking down dead plant material, contributing to nutrient recycling. To ensure their survival, providing them with an optimal environment is crucial. Leaf litter can be considered an easy source of food. Leaves from different trees can be collected and fed to them in their enclosures.
One of the main things to notice while feeding isopods is that the leaves should be pesticide-free. Other organic materials like fruits and vegetables are also considered ideal sources of energy for these isopods. Any food given has to be finely chopped or grated for easy consumption by isopods.
Tricolour isopods prefer protein rich foods as well. Crushed dog or cat food, shrimp pellets and fish are highly recommended for the welfare of the isopods. Excess consumption should be avoided in any case. If it happens, it might lead to specific health issues among them.
Whatever food the isopods consume, leftovers should be removed immediately. Mold can develop in leftover food, which can cause health issues among the tricolour isopods.
Tricolour Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour
· Tricolour isopods grow up to 0.55 Inches in length.
· The species' major color combinations are red, yellow and black.
· They make for a great display.
· They are found in groups of five to six.
· They require more warmer temperatures when compared to other isopod species.
· If kept under optimal conditions, they are adorable as pets.
· Once a colony is established for them, they live for a considerable period.
· Tricolour isopods are considered as prolific breeders. A single female produces a large number of females.
· Monitoring the reproductive patterns of these isopods is vital, as they are considered vulnerable in their reproductive phase.
Tricolour Isopods: Habitat
Providing an ideal habitat for tricolour isopods is fundamental for their survival. As pets, they make for a great display. An optimal environment has to be maintained in their enclosures to maintain their beautiful features and colour-patterns in their body.
Tricolour isopods survive in the ideal temperature of 20-27⁰C (70-78⁰F). Any temperature above or below this temperature can mess with their metabolism. Regular monitoring of temperature is required to maintain the optimal levels of temperature. The use of a thermometer is preferred for this. It is highly advised to use a heat map or heat lamp to regulate the levels.
People who make enclosures for tricolour isopods should also consider the required humidity levels. The ideal humidity level for the species is between 70-80%. A humidifier should be used to mist the enclosure daily. At the same time, excess moisture should be avoided. If the enclosure is moisturized excessively, mold growth might occur, which is harmful for the tricolour isopods. Along with a humidifier, a hygrometer should also be used to maintain the optimal humidity range.
Tricolour isopods are omnivorous creatures. They feed on a variety of organic matter, including decayed fruits and vegetables, shrimp pellets, fish, etc. They are known for their ability to crawl on both glass and plastic. Hence, the tiny gaps that might appear between doors and glasses should be sealed.
Tricolour Isopods: Substrate Mix
A substrate is an ideal substance that aids the growth of an organism. It can help provide or maintain the optimal environment for your pet creatures. In the case of tricolour isopods, using the correct substrate mixture is crucial. The mixture should be provided accordingly since these isopods are mainly found in tropical climatic conditions.
Tricolour isopods require a substrate that retains moisture. Leaf litter is seen as the most ideal form of substrate for this purpose. Leaves can be easily collected from a variety of trees to provide the ideal shelter for tricolour isopods. However, these leaves should be free of pesticides or chemicals. Additionally, sphagnum moss and coconut fiber can be utilized for their survival.
In their ideal condition, hiding spots are also necessary. This substrate mixture of coconut fibre, leaf litter, and sphagnum moss offers natural hiding spots for the isopods. This creates a homely feeling for the isopods, who feel that they are in their natural habitats.
Too much dampening of the substrate mix is not advisable in any enclosures. Care should be taken when using substrate mix, as it could cause waterlogging. Such scenarios should be avoided at all costs to ensure the survival of tricolour isopods.