Cubaris Isopods (48)

Interestingly, the deeper you go into the isopod world, the more variety you find, and some are rare, like Bumblebee isopods. As one of the sought-after species, they are preferred by many mainly because of their appearance, which mimics an actual bumblebee. The bold yellow and black markings on their body create a striking look that makes you want them even more. But since, it is a rare species, getting your hands on them is a bigger struggle than you think. Bumblebee Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Thailand Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. Bumblebee Difficulty: Medium Rarity: Rare Temperature: 18-26° Size: Up to 8-10 mm Humidity: 70-80% Favorable Foods: Decaying organic matter, leaf litter, wood, fruits, and fish flakes.  An Overview Originating from Thailand, Bumblebee isopods are among the Cubaris geniuses. Still, unlike other species in the category, they cannot be found in abundance, which is why they have a high monetary value. With a tendency of growing up to 8 to 10 mm, they prefer high-humid ambiance to reach their potential and lead a healthy life.  What's special about them is the appearance that gives them a bee-like appearance but without wings. However, you should own them only if you are experienced and can meet the requirements necessary. Bumblebee Isopods: Basic Care With some proven tips, you can give your isopods a healthy life and good shape:  Despite the fact that they grow in terrariums, they do need proper regulation of fresh air along with good ventilation.  Another important requirement for their growth highly relies in high humidity, and that is why you must properly mist the enclosure at regular intervals. For that reason, misting the enclosure regularly and using a substrate mix to retain moisture well is important.  Above anything, a stable temperature is crucial, so make sure it doesn't fluctuate much; otherwise, it may create issues for your isopods. Bumblebee Isopods: Feeding Like others, Bumblebee isopods are no different and feed on decaying organic matter in abundance in the wild. But in captivity, you must give them a balanced diet containing plenty of leaf litter, rotting wood, and dried moss for their good health. As for supplementation, you can add vegetables, cuttlebone, fish flakes, and protein sources, but do not overfeed them as they cause molting issues. Bumblebee Isopods: Appearance & Behaviour It is easy to recognize them because of their distinctive yellow and black bands on their body, characteristics you don't see in other isopods. The bold patterns on their bodies serve as a natural defense mechanism, mimicking a Bumblebee and keeping predators away. They are highly active at night but not so much during the daytime, and they stay hidden under leaf litter. They also like to move in groups while foraging. Bumblebee Isopods: Habitat Bumblebee isopods make places with tropical climates their home and live under rocks, decaying logs, and leaf litter so nobody can bother or attack them. You need to mimic the same when keeping them in captivity with plenty of hiding spots, perfect air flow, and moisture-retaining materials.  Bumblebee Isopods: Substrate Mix You may have a thought of experimenting with substrate mix to feed your bumblebee isopods, and then you will end up putting their overall health on stake. This is why you create a proper substrate mix containing coconut fiber, sphagnum moss, decayed wood, leaf litter, sand, and crushed eggshells or cuttlebone to fulfill their calcium requirement.

A highly sought-after species, Cubaris Platinum Isopods are popular for their metallic appearance and unique behaviour. Also known as Platinum-Metallica Ducky Isopods, these little creatures are medium in size and native to Thailand. Their most attractive feature is the silvery sheen, which gives their name. Isopod’s health and happiness rely majorly on the environment you offer them. Try giving them high-humidity enclosures and warm temperatures, which are their natural habitat.  Cubaris Platinum Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Thailand Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. Platinum Difficulty: Advanced Rarity: Ultra Rare Temperature: 23 to 26 degrees Celsius Size: 1 cm to 1.5 cm Humidity: High Favourable Foods: Leaf litter, fresh vegetables and fruits, and protein-rich foods An Overview Known for their striking metallic exoskeleton, Cubaris Platinum Isopods are exotic pets. These isopods range from a pale silver to a bright platinum hue, unlike any other isopod species. Ideal for any isopod collection, Cubaris Platinum isopods grow up to 1.5 cm in length and have a domed-shaped body. This gives them extra protection in their natural environment, so they escape threats better. When it comes to Cubaris Platinum isopods, they need a high-humidity setup and consistent warmth to thrive. As a keeper, maintaining stable terrarium conditions is essential. Caring for these isopods is bit challenging, but the effort is worthwhile because of their fascinating appearance and behaviour. These are rare species because they breed slowly, making them fascinating creatures to possess as pets. But under optimal conditions, increasing their number is possible.  Cubaris Platinum Isopods: Basic Care Caring for Cubaris Platinum Isopods is not difficult and requires the minimum effort only if you do it the right way. A set of tips are shared below: A high humidity environment, around 70-80% is preferred and make sure the terrarium is well-sealed to lock the moisture in.  T 23-26℃. This is essential for the optimal health and activity of your isopods. Using cork bark, leaf litter, and moss, create hiding spots so your isopods feel safe. A nutrient-rich substrate is what your isopods need to be healthy. Ensure the substrate contains decayed wood, leaf litter, cuttlebone and eggshells, which are important for their growth. Cubaris Platinum Isopods: Feeding Feeding Cubaris Platinum Isopods doesn’t require much effort. Their diet mainly consists of decaying organic matter like leaves and wood, which you can easily find. A good idea is to include various dried vegetables like carrots and zucchini. These items give them additional nutrition. But for calcium supplementation, cuttlebone or eggshells are a must as they make their exoskeleton strong. Cubaris Platinum Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour Cubaris Platinum isopods have a metallic platinum exoskeleton, which is their distinctive feature.  Their nature is shy in general, and they prefer to hide during the day and come out during the night. Cubaris Platinum isopods are slow breeders, but their unique appearance makes the effort worth it. They need high-humidity conditions and consistent care without which they cannot flourish. These isopods have a dome-like body shape and size is medium. Cubaris Platinum Isopods: Habitat Cubaris Platinum Isopods are native to Thailand and need a humid tropical environment. Keeping them as pets requires replicating a similar climate in captivity so they can grow and reproduce without difficulties for which creating moisture-retaining substrate is essential. Along with it, adequate ventilation is also important as it helps prevent mould growth. Cubaris Platinum Isopods: Substrate Mix Keeping Cubaris Platinum Isopods needs a substrate mix containing decayed wood pieces and leaf litter playing a huge role in their sustenance and growth. Coconut coir and calcium-rich supplements like oyster shells or cuttlebone are also good for their exoskeleton health. Also, avoid using chemically treated substrates or additives because they may harm the isopods.

Red Edge Blonde Isopods are one of the rarest morphs of Red Edge Isopods, these species are selectively bred and cultured for their color mutation.  They may look similar to albino except that they have white with a light peach highlight on their exoskeleton and black eyes. This variant is quite hardy, and they are beginner-friendly, too. Summary ●    Origin: Japan ●  Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. "Red Edge Blonde" or "Red Skirt Blonde" ●      Maintenance required: Medium ●      Temperature: 70℉-80℉ ●      Average Size: 1.3 cm ●      Rarity: high ●      Humidity: 70%-80% ●      Favorite food: Rotting wood, leaf litter ●      Supplements: Bat guano, bee pollen, Cuttlefish bone Red Edge "Blonde" Isopods: Abstract One of the lesser known Cubaris species, this isopod is easy to maintain and take care of in captivity. They are prolific in nature and thrive in easier conditions unlike other Cubaris sp. isopods. Being native to Japan, these species can tolerate extreme temperature and humidity. Their striking colors and features make them a great addition for display in your vivarium and terrarium.  Physical Features and Characteristics ●      The Red edge "Blonde" isopods are one of the rarest morphs of red-edge isopods, which have been cultured by isolating these morphs in a different enclosure. ●      They are hardy and prolific in nature. These species breed quickly and are active throughout the day. ●      They survive well in tropical and subtropical climates and are a great beginner-friendly isopod species. ●      The average size of an adult is around 1.3 cm in length. ●      Have a beautiful white shell with peach shade on the skirts, thus giving the "blond" appearance. ●      When they feel threatened or disturbed, they scurry away into their hiding place. ●      These critters can be paired up with springtails to keep the enclosure clean. ●      Detritus in nature, i.e., they feed on decaying animals, plants, and fungi. ●      Their appetites are larger than their appearance, and they are not picky eaters. Red Edge "Blonde" Isopods: Diet The decomposing leaf litter or wood is a favorite food source for Red Edge "Blonde" isopods. They can feast on vegetables, dry shrimp, and pieces of fungus. Due to their increased reliance on decomposing matter, they participate significantly in the environment's decomposition process. Providing balanced and nutritional food could help preserve these creatures' health. It also significantly impacts their ability to reproduce and the well-being of the offspring they raise. Calcium-rich foods like Cuttlebone may be included in the supplements. They love protein, so adding fish pellets and meat scraps can help them achieve the necessary nutrition. You can also include superfoods for the isopods as they contain all the necessary nutrients. Feed these superfoods twice a month to get that balanced nutrition. Basic Care for Red Edge "Blonde" Isopods These species require very less maintenance and care, yet still there are certain key points one must keep in mind when culturing these beauties. ●      When creating an artificial habitat, make sure to mimic its natural environment as closely as possible. ●      Though these critters are very forgiving and withstand extreme temperatures, maintaining the ideal temperature is best to promote breeding. ●      These species love humid environments and high temperatures. Make sure to mist 50% of the enclosure with water and leave the rest dry. ●      Make sure to mist the same area that was done before, and don't change the moisture gradient of the enclosure. ●      Though they have a large appetite, make sure not to overfeed them. Overfeeding foods can attract unwanted insects and pests. ●      Maintain the hygiene inside the enclosure and clean any excess food and molt that is found in the enclosure. ●      Observe their activities and monitor them to understand if they are well established in the artificial environment. ●      Add enough hiding spaces like barks and egg crates for the isopods to form their own colonies. ●      When the enclosure seems to have a large population, some of the colonies are rehomed in a different enclosure. Red Edge "Blonde" Isopods: How to Build an Enclosure? To house these rare and unique isopods, it is important to build a perfect artificial setup for the isopods to grow and thrive. Here are some of the tips to rear these species and produce healthy brood inside the enclosure: ●      It is highly recommended that you use a plastic container to make an enclosure for your pets. The enclosure should have a proper lid with a lock to ensure safety. The container should be approximately eleven liters in size. ●      Holes should be provided in the container covering all sides of the enclosure. These holes should be covered with the mesh to avoid the escape of your pets. These species have the tendency to climb on the walls of the container. These meshes will help in preventing their escape outside the container. ●      It is to be ensured that the container is clean and the substrate mix is added to it. It should contain hardwood leaves and pieces of charcoal. Supplements of calcium may be provided to ensure a good growth of the isopods. Perlite can also be added to provide them with additional nutrition. ●      The substrate may be restricted between one inch and three inches. Moss can be added to the container with a suitable thickness of 5-7 cm. These species are more interested in hiding than in burrows. ●      Enough number of hide out places should be provided in the container. In addition, the areas which are wet and dry should be equally divided. By providing this option, your pets can choose their desired environment. ●      The area selected as the wet area should be sprayed with water in the form of a mist. It is to be ensured that you do not get confused with the area which is divided as wet and dry area. The dry area should be kept perfectly dry. ●      Based on the population inside the enclosure, you can maintain a separate enclosure so that the population is evenly divided between the enclosures.

Discover the exquisite beauty of our rare Cubaris Platin Tung Song Isopods! These stunning cave-dwelling treasures from the limestone caves of Tung Song, Thailand, showcase breathtaking metallic platinum coloration with intricate yellow spotting that creates an almost jewel-like appearance. Despite their smaller stature compared to other Cubaris species, these remarkable isopods more than make up for their size with their incredible visual impact and unique shy personality that makes observing them all the more rewarding. Perfect for collectors seeking something truly special and rare in their collections. A Glimpse Origin: Tung Song caves, Southern Thailand Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. "Platin Tung Song" Maintenance required: Medium to Advanced Average Size: 1.0-1.5 cm Rarity: High Lifespan: 1.5-2 years Temperature: 23℃-26℃ (73℉-79℉) Ventilation: Moderate (with high humidity) Humidity: 70-85% Favorite food: Leaf litter, decaying wood, specialized feeds Supplements: Cuttlebone, calcium powder, protein sources Cubaris Platin Tung Song: Introduction These extraordinary isopods were discovered in the mysterious limestone cave systems of Tung Song in Southern Thailand, where they've adapted to the unique microclimate conditions found in these underground environments. The name "Platin" refers to their stunning platinum-silver metallic sheen that seems to shimmer under terrarium lighting, while intricate yellow spots create beautiful contrast patterns across their exoskeleton. As one of the smaller Cubaris species, they represent a perfect example of how size doesn't diminish beauty or desirability in the isopod world. Their cave-dwelling origins have resulted in a naturally shy and timid personality that makes them more secretive than many other species, but this only adds to their mystique and makes glimpses of them all the more special for dedicated observers. Physical Traits and Characteristics These petite Cubaris display the classic "rubber ducky" facial features beloved in the Cubaris genus, with prominent compound eyes and distinctive head shape Their most striking feature is the metallic platinum-silver base coloration that creates an almost mirror-like sheen across their exoskeleton Intricate yellow spots and markings are scattered across their dorsal surface, creating unique patterns that vary between individuals At only 1.0-1.5cm when fully grown, they're among the smaller members of the Cubaris family, making them perfect for detailed observation They possess the characteristic Cubaris ability to roll into a perfect sphere when threatened, creating tiny living pearls Their compact size and metallic coloration make them appear almost like living jewelry when they emerge from hiding The contrast between their platinum base and yellow markings becomes more pronounced under proper terrarium lighting Despite their small size, they display all the classic Cubaris proportions and body structure in miniature Their cave-adapted physiology makes them particularly sensitive to environmental changes, requiring stable conditions Diet Cubaris Platin Tung Song isopods have refined dietary preferences that reflect their cave-dwelling origins. In their natural limestone cave habitat, they consume decomposing organic matter, cave-specific fungi, and mineral-rich detritus that washes into their underground homes. In captivity, provide high-quality leaf litter (oak, beech, and maple work particularly well), along with small pieces of well-aged hardwood and cork bark. Their smaller size means they prefer finely processed foods, so consider crushing or breaking larger food items into appropriate sizes. Supplement their diet with calcium-rich sources like cuttlebone powder, crushed limestone, or specialized calcium supplements designed for cave-dwelling species. Protein sources should be offered sparingly but regularly - fish food flakes, dried shrimp, or specialized high-protein isopod foods work well. Due to their shy nature and smaller size, they may be outcompeted by larger, more aggressive species, so monitor feeding carefully to ensure they receive adequate nutrition. Their slower metabolism means they require less frequent feeding than more active species, but consistency is key for maintaining their health and encouraging breeding. Cubaris Platin Tung Song: Personality These remarkable isopods display a notably shy and timid personality that sets them apart from many other Cubaris species. Their cave-dwelling origins have instilled in them a preference for remaining hidden during daylight hours, making them primarily nocturnal in their activity patterns. They're much more secretive than their bolder Cubaris cousins and will quickly retreat to hiding spots when disturbed. This shyness means they require larger population numbers to feel secure enough to venture out regularly - a phenomenon where safety in numbers encourages more confident exploration of their environment. Despite their timid nature, they're peaceful and make excellent companions for other small, non-aggressive isopod species. Their small size and gentle temperament mean they pose no threat to tank mates and actually benefit from the increased activity of slightly bolder species that can encourage them to emerge more frequently. Their retiring nature makes observing them feel like a special privilege, and their stunning appearance makes every sighting truly memorable for dedicated enthusiasts who appreciate their subtle beauty. Breeding Cubaris Platin Tung Song isopods are moderate breeders that require stable, optimal conditions to reproduce successfully. Their cave-adapted physiology means they're more sensitive to environmental fluctuations than some hardier species, making consistent care essential for breeding success. Females reach maturity at around 4-5 months and will carry their eggs for approximately 6-8 weeks before releasing 10-20 tiny juveniles. The young are exceptionally small and delicate, requiring very stable conditions and appropriate food sources to survive to adulthood. For optimal breeding results, maintain consistent humidity levels between 75-85%, stable temperatures around 24-25℃, and provide abundant calcium sources. The shy nature of this species means they feel more secure and breed more readily in larger groups, so maintaining colonies of 20+ individuals often yields better reproductive success. Their slower growth rate means patience is required, but the reward of successfully breeding these rare and beautiful isopods makes the effort worthwhile. Multiple generations can coexist peacefully in well-maintained setups, gradually building thriving colonies over time. Creating the Perfect Habitat Cubaris Platin Tung Song isopods require carefully designed habitats that replicate their natural cave environment. Use a deep substrate mix of quality soil, decomposed leaf matter, and limestone pieces to reflect their calcium-rich cave origins, with a depth of at least 4-5cm for adequate burrowing. Maintain high humidity levels (75-85%) while ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent stagnation - this balance is crucial for their health. Create hiding spots using flat limestone pieces, cork bark chunks, and ceramic caves that provide the dark, secure spaces they crave. Their small size means they can escape through surprisingly small gaps, so ensure all ventilation holes are appropriately sized. Include sphagnum moss in humid areas to help maintain consistent moisture levels while providing additional hiding spots. Temperature stability is critical - maintain consistent temperatures between 23-26℃ without significant fluctuations. Consider the visual presentation when designing their habitat, as their metallic coloration is particularly striking against dark substrates and under appropriate lighting. Include natural limestone or crushed oyster shell in the substrate to provide ongoing calcium supplementation and replicate the mineral-rich conditions of their native caves. The combination of stable conditions, appropriate hiding spots, and mineral-rich environment will help these shy beauties feel secure enough to display their stunning coloration and natural behaviors.

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

Latte Isopods (Cubaris sp.) Product Description Indulge in the creamy elegance of our stunning Latte Isopods! These exquisite Cubaris specimens showcase the perfect blend of warm, café-inspired tones that have made them one of the most coveted varieties in the hobby. With their distinctive smooth coloration reminiscent of a perfectly crafted latte and their iconic "ducky" facial features, these remarkable creatures bring both sophistication and charm to any bioactive setup. Perfect for enthusiasts seeking something truly special and rare. Latte Isopods: A Glimpse • Origin: Thailand (Southeast Asia)• Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. "Latte"• Difficulty Level: Medium to Advanced• Size: Up to 2 centimeters• Rarity: Very Rare• Temperature: 75°F to 85°F• Humidity: 75% to 85%• Favourite Foods: Leaf litter, organic vegetables, specialized isopod food, protein supplements An Overview Originally discovered in the limestone caves and tropical forests of Thailand, Cubaris sp. "Latte" represents one of the most aesthetically striking and sought-after varieties in the modern isopod hobby. These extraordinary creatures have earned their coffee-inspired name through their beautiful cream and tan coloration that perfectly mimics the layered appearance of a expertly crafted latte. What sets Latte isopods apart is their exceptional beauty combined with the classic Cubaris charm. They display the beloved "ducky face" that has made Cubaris species so popular, featuring their distinctive rounded snouts and endearing facial structure. Their smooth, polished exoskeleton showcases gorgeous gradients of creamy whites, warm tans, and subtle brown markings that create an almost porcelain-like appearance. These premium isopods are known for their calm, gentle temperament and fascinating behavior patterns. Unlike some of their more reclusive cousins, Latte isopods often venture out during the day, making them excellent display animals. Their slow, deliberate movements and tendency to congregate in small groups create captivating viewing opportunities for dedicated enthusiasts. Habitat Requirements Substrate Mix: • 30% high-quality coco coir • 25% sphagnum moss (for superior moisture retention) • 20% fine orchid bark • 15% composted leaf litter (oak or maple preferred) • 10% limestone chips or Cubaris cave stone Create distinct moisture zones within the enclosure, with approximately two-thirds maintaining high humidity and one-third slightly drier. Latte isopods are particularly sensitive to substrate quality and require excellent drainage combined with consistent moisture retention. Basic Care Enclosure Setup: • Minimum 6-quart container for starter colonies (3-5 individuals) • Secure, well-ventilated lid with multiple air holes for gas exchange • Deep substrate layer (4-5 inches) to accommodate burrowing behavior • Cork bark tubes, limestone caves, and natural hiding spots • Thick layer of quality leaf litter throughout • Multiple moss patches for microclimate creation • Shallow water feature or misting station Environmental Conditions: • Maintain temperature between 75°F to 85°F (consistency is crucial) • Keep humidity between 75% to 85% (higher than most isopods) • Provide natural day/night lighting cycle • Ensure excellent ventilation to prevent stagnation • Monitor conditions daily for optimal stability These advanced-care isopods require dedicated attention to environmental parameters. They're particularly sensitive to temperature fluctuations and require more stable conditions than beginner species. Their limestone cave origins make them especially appreciative of calcium-rich environments. Feeding Primary Diet: • Premium quality leaf litter (their absolute staple food) • Fresh organic vegetables (sweet potato, carrot, butternut squash) • Ripe, soft fruits (avoid citrus completely) • High-quality specialized Cubaris food • White rotting wood pieces (essential for gut health) Critical Supplements: • Calcium sources (cuttlebone, limestone, cave stone) • Regular protein offerings (fish flakes, freeze-dried shrimp) • Trace minerals and vitamins through varied diet • Occasional treats (moss, lichen, specialized protein mixes) Feeding Schedule: Feed small amounts 2-3 times per week, removing any uneaten fresh foods within 24 hours to prevent mold. Latte isopods are particularly sensitive to poor food quality and benefit from premium, organic food sources. Always ensure multiple food types are available simultaneously. Breeding Information Cubaris sp. "Latte" are notoriously challenging breeders in captivity, which contributes significantly to their rarity and high value. Successful breeding requires exceptional attention to environmental stability and colony health. Breeding Requirements: • Absolutely stable temperature (78-80°F ideal) • Consistent high humidity (80-85%) • Mature, well-established colony (6+ months minimum) • Abundant high-quality calcium sources • Stress-free environment with minimal disturbance • Rich, varied diet with regular protein supplementation • Proper ventilation to prevent harmful gas buildup Females carry eggs in their marsupium for 6-8 weeks, producing small broods of 8-15 mancae when conditions are perfect. Young isopods require 6-8 months to reach maturity, making colony establishment a long-term commitment. Success with breeding often takes multiple attempts and considerable patience. Special Considerations Due to their extreme rarity and demanding care requirements, Latte isopods represent a significant investment and challenge. They're best suited for experienced keepers who have successfully maintained other Cubaris species and understand the nuances of premium isopod care. Essential Success Factors: • Previous experience with Cubaris species highly recommended • Daily monitoring of environmental conditions • Premium substrate and food sources only • Patient approach to colony establishment • Backup heating and humidity systems advisable Perfect for: • Advanced bioactive vivarium projects • Serious Cubaris collectors and breeders • Display setups where beauty is paramount • Enthusiasts seeking ultimate challenges • Educational demonstrations of rare species Investment Consideration: These remarkable isopods represent both a significant financial investment and a long-term care commitment. Their slow reproduction rate and specific care requirements mean that establishing a thriving colony requires patience, dedication, and expertise. However, for those willing to provide the necessary care, Latte isopods offer an unparalleled combination of beauty, rarity, and satisfaction. Whether you're an experienced Cubaris enthusiast looking to add something truly special to your collection or a dedicated hobbyist ready to tackle the ultimate isopod challenge, our captive-bred Latte isopods represent the pinnacle of the hobby. These Thai treasures bring café-inspired elegance and exceptional rarity to the most discerning collections, showcasing the incredible diversity and beauty that makes Cubaris species the crown jewels of the isopod world!