Isopods For Sale (185)

An exotic hobby of keeping isopods as pets has become a common one in recent times, and you will find plenty sharing the same passion. But, it is challenging to choose the right isopod for your captivity. If you are looking for a difficult species, choose Succinctus Black Rib Isopods. These isopods are attractive to look at and also available easily. Succinctus Black Rib Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: Spain Scientific Name: Porcellio Succinctus "Black Ribs" Difficulty: Medium Rarity: rare Size: Up to 2.8 cm Temperature: 15°C to 26°C Humidity: 45-55% Favourable Foods: Rotting wood, forest debris, fruits, vegetables, fish food, and cuttlebone. An Overview Succinctus Black Rib Isopods are native to Spain. They are a captivating species that many keepers and enthusiasts prefer. What makes these isopods popular is their appearance. You can easily recognize them because of their unique white skirts and black ribbons on their body. Unlike other isopods, Succinctus Black Rib Isopods cannot tolerate high humidity. They prefer low to medium moisture levels that is essential for their survival. Succinctus Black Rib Isopods are bigger than many other isopod species, and their size grows up to 2.8 cm long and thrives better in moderate temperatures. You must take up the responsibility for a pet to give them a better life and start by giving them the same environment as their habitat.  Succinctus Black Rib Isopods: Basic Care Here are some basic care tips you should follow: You should add moist corners in the terrarium because it is essential for your isopods' health. Do not skip on keeping ample airflow and ventilation when preparing the terrarium.   Mimicking their natural surroundings maybe a task, but take extra efforts and add moss, leaf litter, and pieces of decaying white wood so it mimics their natural surroundings.   For their better growth, the ideal temperature range is between 15 and 26°C. Succinctus Black Rib Isopods: Feeding Succinctus Black Rib Isopods are detritivores. They feed on various organic materials, including fruits, vegetables, greens, forest moss, lichen, decaying leaves, and rotting white. You should provide these things for their development. Cuttlefish bone, limestone, or oyster seashells are a great source of calcium.  Succinctus Black Rib Isopods: Appearance & Behaviour Succinctus Black Rib Isopods reach up to 2.8 cm in length.  The isopods are best known for their features, like long antennae and uropods, contributing to their impressive appearance.  They are secretive and mostly active at night and early morning.  You should keep them from direct sunlight as they are heat-sensitive. Succinctus Black Rib Isopods: Habitat Succinctus Black Rib Isopods require a habitat that closely resembles their natural environment. Create multiple moist corners using moss, decaying white wood, and leaf litter so your isopods can live comfortably. This will also maintain the right humidity level, which is essential for their development. The setup should be dry but have good airflow. This way, you can prevent excessive moisture buildup inside the terrarium. Succinctus Black Rib Isopods: Substrate Mix Your isopods need a suitable substrate mix. Use organic compost, vermicast, sphagnum moss, crushed leaf litter, rotting wood, and calcium sources. This will help you prepare the perfect substrate mix for your little pets. This will provide the necessary nutrients and environment for your isopods to thrive and reproduce.

Isopods could be a good option if you plan to keep exotic pets. One prominent one is Trogrodillo Camouflage isopods, which have been growing in popularity recently, mainly because of their camouflage abilities. Plus, they are low-maintenance; so many exotic pet enthusiasts choose them over other isopod species. These tiny invertebrates make an interesting addition to any terrarium or bioactive setup. But before you bring them home, there are some things you should know. Trogrodillo Camouflage Isopods: A Glimpse Origin: China Scientific Name: Trogrodillo Camouflagius Difficulty Level: Intermediate Size: Up to 1.5 cm Rarity: Rare Temperature: 20-26°C Humidity: 60-80% Favourite Food: Rotting leaves, wood, and dead plant material. Trogrodillo Camouflage Isopods: An Overview Trogrodillo Camouflage Isopods are part of a larger isopod family that includes various other species. These isopods are good for the environment because they break down organic material in ecosystems.  Trogrodillo Camouflage Isopods are admired for their camouflage abilities, which allow them to blend into their environment easily. In other words, they can mimic their surroundings to become nearly invisible and protect themselves from predators. Besides their beauty and survival tactics, these isopods play a vital role in bioactive terrariums. They help break down waste and dead plant material and clean the terrarium. Since you don't have to maintain the setup regularly, you can keep them with other pets like house reptiles or amphibians. Trogrodillo Camouflage Isopods: Basic Care Unlike other isopods, Trogrodillo Camouflage Isopods require few care and maintenance requirements. Just follow the following steps, and you'll be good to go. Maintaining the correct temperature and humidity inside the terrarium is key to keeping these isopods healthy. Since they are highly sensitive to their environment, you should monitor the conditions in the enclosure regularly using a thermometer and hygrometer. It is important to ensure the temperature inside the enclosure remains between 20-26°C. The humidity level should be between 60 and 80%. You can keep these isopods in a well-ventilated plastic or glass container. Just check that the container has enough space for them to move around in.  You should add a lid with small holes to prevent them from escaping and maintain the airflow. To create a humidity gradient, you must keep one side of the enclosure moist. By doing so, you can regulate the moisture intake of the isopods as needed. Trogrodillo Camouflage Isopods are light-sensitive and prefer to live in darker environments. Therefore, you don't have to add UV lighting to their enclosure. You should use the right substrate mix for their well-being. The substrate should also be damp, not soaked. Trogrodillo Camouflage Isopods: Feeding Trogrodillo Camouflage Isopods are natural detritivores for those unversed, which means they feed on decomposing organic matter. To keep your isopods happy and healthy, you must provide them with a balanced diet of different foods. One of their favourite foods is rotting plant material, which is easily found in their natural habitat. So, please provide them with enough dead leaves and decomposing wood. You can supplement their diet with small quantities of vegetables like cucumber, zucchini, or squash. You should also remove leftover food from their enclosure to avoid mould growth. It is important to provide these isopods with a good source of protein, like fish flakes or freeze-dried shrimp, at least once a week. As for calcium supplements, you can give them cuttlebones or eggshells, as they help grow their exoskeletons. Trogrodillo Camouflage Isopods: Appearance And Behaviour Trogrodillo Camouflage Isopods are small, oval-shaped creatures with segmented, armor-like exoskeletons.  These isopods are available in various colours, including light brown and dark grey. Due to their camouflage abilities, they can easily blend into their surroundings effectively. Some species may even have mottled patterns that mimic the appearance of tree bark or leaf litter. These isopods are shy and docile by nature. Maybe this is why they are more active at night than during the day. They also prefer to live in dimly lit or dark environments. A unique feature of these isopods is that they can roll into a ball when threatened. This behaviour is known as conglobation, and it is used as a defence mechanism. Although Trogrodillo Camouflage Isopods are solitary creatures, they prefer to live in small groups. Trogrodillo Camouflage Isopods: Habitat Talking about Trogrodillo Camouflage Isopods' habitat, they tend to live on forest floors where they can easily hide under leaf litter, logs, and other decaying materials. In the wild, they usually live in warm and moist areas. This is why it is important to recreate these conditions in captivity. When setting up a terrarium for these isopods, you should provide plenty of hiding places, such as pieces of cork bark, rocks, and leafy debris. These allow them to burrow and hide whenever they feel threatened, and they also provide them with a place to rest and sleep. You can add live plants to the terrarium to maintain humidity levels. This will also help you provide additional organic matter for the isopods so they can consume it for days. However, it would help if you were careful when selecting plants for your isopods. It would help if you chose plants found in high-humidity environments that can withstand being nibbled on. Trogrodillo Camouflage Isopods: Substrate Mix One important aspect of Trogrodillo Camouflage Isopods is the substrate mix. If you are determined to keep these creatures as pets, make sure to provide them with a well-balanced substrate. Coconut coir is an organic material that helps retain moisture, making it the perfect base for your isopods. You can also add sphagnum moss to create a more natural environment and maintain the humidity level. It is important to include plenty of decaying leaves so your isopods have a place to hide. When hungry, they can also feed on the decaying leaves. Some enthusiasts also add charcoal to the enclosure, as it helps improve air circulation and prevents bacterial buildup. It is a good idea to add crushed cuttlebones or powdered eggshells to your tiny pets' diets so that they can enjoy some extra calcium for their exoskeleton development. Last, you should maintain the substrate mix by keeping it moist. However, it would help if you didn't overdo it, as it can create problems for the isopods.

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: Medium Size: 12-18 mm Rarity: Rare 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.

Klugii Skeleton Isopods received their name because of the designs on their exoskeleton. They have a hard exoskeleton with a red outline. White patches are seen across the body of these isopods, similar to the vertebral column in humans. This gave them the nickname 'Skeleton' Isopods. These species of isopods are sometimes isolated to form a particular pattern in their body. Thus, they are also called 'nebula'.  Klugii Skeleton Isopods: Key Points Origin: Croatia Scientific Name: Armadillidium Klugii Difficulty Level: Easy Size: 2.1 cm Rarity: Common Temperature: 18-26˚C Humidity Level: Medium Preferred Foods: Leaf litter, carrot, fish food, cuttlebone Klugii Skeleton Isopods: An Overview Klugii skeleton isopods are primarily found in a standard reddish color with white patches. They are considered a beginner series of isopods perfect for starting a collection. They are famous for their reproductive capacities. Their hard exoskeleton protects them from many dangerous predators.  Klugii skeleton isopods can feed on a variety of foods. As sources of fiber, they prefer leaf litter and decaying hardwood. Under vegetables, they feed on all sorts of dried vegetable waste. But carrots remain a possible variety to consume. Calcium supplements can be given in limestone, cuttlebone, fish food, etc. Klugii Skeleton Isopods: Basic Care The following instructions can help provide the best care for Klugii Skeleton isopods. As tropical isopods, Klugii Skeleton Isopods prefer moderate humidity in the enclosure. Moisture retention is an essential practice to ensure the survival of these isopods.  A portion within the enclosure should retain moisture to maintain its optimal climatic conditions.  They are considered a beginner species ideal for vivariums.  Their reproductive abilities might be slow in the beginning. Once they feel that they are in an optimal condition, they will breed faster. Medium-level ventilation is only required for Klugii Skeleton Isopods.  Burrowing is a natural practice with these isopods. It is preferable for them to have some artificial hiding spots within the enclosure. Preferred food items include-  decayed wood, leaf litter, carrots, other vegetables, fish food, limestone, etc. They can thrive easily in a room temperature of 18-26˚C. Klugii Skeleton Isopods: Feeding Detritivores are species that can survive on a variety of food particles. Klugii Skeleton Isopods are also considered in this category. They feed on leaf litter, decaying wood, vegetables, fish food, etc.  Decaying wood and leaf litter constitute a significant part of their survival. The diet for Klugii Skeleton Isopods can be easily managed with many food items. Vegetable scraps from the kitchen can be utilized inside the enclosures. Experts insist on using dry items to restrict mold growth within the enclosures. Excess mold growth can be counterproductive for the isopods.  Klugii Skeleton isopods require protein and calcium-rich foods to supplement their growth. They tend to enjoy higher protein and calcium in their daily diets. Fiber sources, decayed hardwood, leaf litter, etc., are accessible to provide. Carrots are the best food among vegetables to supplement their growth. Other vegetables in their dried forms can be provided. Cuttlebones, eggshells, etc., are a significant part of their substrate mix and are good sources of protein and calcium.  Klugii Skeleton isopods also have the identity of a 'clean-up' crew. They tend to feed on many types of decaying plants and leaves, making them a good choice for vivariums and enclosures.  Klugii Skeleton Isopods: Appearance and Behaviour Klugii Skeleton isopods have hard exoskeletons. As a commonly found species of isopods, they have dark exoskeleton and white patches. They are primarily found in one colour- red or reddish brown. Their growth is restricted to 2.1 Cm in length. They are primarily found in Croatia. Burrowing is a common practice noticed among these isopods. Skeleton Isopods are commonly found in tropical conditions. Hence, the enclosures should have both dry and moist spaces.  They are considered prolific breeders among different species of isopods. They prefer an optimal condition for their breeding. Their breeding pattern can be slow initially. Once an optimal climatic condition is provided, they are fast breeders.  Klugii Skeleton Isopods: Habitat Only an ideal habitat can ensure the proper survival and breeding of Klugii Skeleton isopods. Providing a perfect habitat for Klugii Skeleton isopods is fundamental for their survival. They are considered a beginner series of isopods for collectors to own. They are considered a primary purchase option for collectors. They also make relatively good displays among isopods. Maintaining the optimal condition inside the vivarium is crucial for their growth.  The ideal temperature for the survival of Klugii Skeleton isopods is between 18-26⁰C. Experts suggest the maintenance of these temperature levels to help the isopods in keeping their normal metabolism levels. Thermometers can be utilized to check the level of temperatures at regular intervals. But as these are isopods from tropical conditions, they can easily survive in room temperatures when compared to other isopods.  Klugii Skeleton Isopods are identified for their high breeding capacity. But they can only breed proficiently under ideal circumstances. Thus, keeping a perfect moisturization level inside the vivarium/enclosure is highly advised to keep them breeding. Providing hiding spots for these isopods can also be helpful in the attempts to breed them.  Skeleton isopods are medium-sized when compared to other isopods. Ventilation is a crucial aspect of their survival in the enclosure. They need constant air circulation, mainly in tropical conditions. Drilling holes in the enclosure is considered a standard practice to ensure enough air circulation.  Klugii Skeleton Isopods: Substrate Mix A substrate mixture includes various types of nutrients to ensure the optimal growth of an organism. Different varieties of substances, both artificial and natural are used for the creation of an ideal substrate. For Klugii Skeleton isopods, the perfect substrate mixture is comparatively easy to produce. A key aspect of their survival is ventilation, which can be achieved through drilling air holes.  Care should be taken for Klugii Skeleton isopods, a they require a substrate mixture which facilitates both dry and moist areas within the enclosure. Decayed wood and leaf litter are easily acquirable materials for the substrate. Dried leaves comes with good amount of protein. The only risk factor is in whether the leaves are subjected to pesticides or not.  Klugii Skeleton Isopods prefer to stay within a reasonable distance. Burrowing is a common practice among these isopods. Hence, they like to stay within the enclosure, preferably in hiding spots built artificially by the collector. Thus, they are not climbers like many other isopods. Hence, providing a mixture of decaying wood, leaf litter, cuttlebone, egg shells, vegetable scraps, etc., can ensure their stay within the enclosure. A wet area in any portion of the enclosure can provide the ‘tropical’ environment these skeleton isopods seek for their survival. 

I now have comprehensive information. Here's the rewritten product description: Red Edge Blonde Isopods (Cubaris sp. 'Red Edge Blonde') are a stunning selectively bred colour morph of the popular Red Edge Cubaris. Where the standard Red Edge displays a blue-grey body with striking red skirting, the Blonde variant has been isolated and cultured for its beautiful colour mutation - resulting in a predominantly white to cream-coloured body with soft peachy-pink highlights along the edges, while retaining the characteristic dark eyes. This morph is sometimes called "Red Skirt Blonde" or "White Phase" and represents one of the rarer variations within the Red Edge lineage. They combine the hardy, beginner-friendly nature of standard Red Edge isopods with an exceptionally attractive pale appearance that makes them stand out in any collection. Red Edge isopods (in all their colour forms) are considered one of the best "gateway" Cubaris species - offering the exotic appeal of the Cubaris genus while being significantly more forgiving and prolific than demanding species like Rubber Duckies or Lemon Blues. If you're looking to move beyond common isopods into more exotic territory, or simply want a beautiful, manageable Cubaris to add to your collection, the Blonde variant is an excellent choice. A Glimpse Origin: Thailand (selectively bred colour morph) Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. 'Red Edge Blonde' Alternative Names: Red Skirt Blonde, White Phase, Albino Red Edge Difficulty Level: Easy to Medium Size: Up to 1.5-2cm (approximately 17-20mm) Lifespan: 2-3 years Temperature: 21-28°C (70-82°F), optimal 22-26°C Humidity: 65-80% Rarity: High (uncommon colour morph) An Overview The Red Edge Cubaris originates from Thailand, where wild populations display the characteristic blue-grey body with vibrant red edges that give the species its name. The Blonde morph is a captive-bred colour mutation that has been selectively isolated and bred to produce consistently pale offspring. What makes the Blonde variant distinctive: White to cream base colouration (instead of blue-grey) Soft peachy-pink highlights along segment edges (instead of bold red) Dark eyes (distinguishing them from true albinos which have red eyes) Same body shape and size as standard Red Edge Some sellers list these as "Albino" Red Edge, though true albinos have red eyes due to lack of pigment. The Blonde/White Phase typically retains dark eyes, suggesting this is a different genetic variant - a leucistic or hypomelanistic form rather than true albinism. Regardless of the precise genetics, the result is a strikingly beautiful pale isopod. Red Edge isopods in general are prized for being more robust than many Cubaris species. They tolerate less-than-ideal conditions better than sensitive species like Rubber Duckies, making them excellent for keepers developing their Cubaris husbandry skills. The Blonde morph shares this hardiness while offering a more unusual appearance. They're notably more active than many Cubaris species, making them enjoyable to observe. Rather than hiding constantly, established colonies will often be visible during the day, especially when hiding spots are plentiful and they feel secure. Colour Morphs and Variations Several colour variants exist within the Red Edge lineage: Standard Red Edge - Blue-grey body with bold red edges/skirts. The original wild-type colouration. Blonde/White Phase - White to cream body with peachy-pink edges. Dark eyes. The variant described on this page. Albino - Similar pale colouration but with red eyes (true albinism). Orange Phase - Selectively bred for orange rather than red colouration. If maintaining pure colour lines, keep different morphs separate. Breeding Blonde with standard Red Edge may produce offspring reverting to wild-type colouration, though genetics in these morphs aren't fully documented. Basic Care Red Edge Blonde isopods share care requirements with standard Red Edge - they're among the more forgiving Cubaris species while still requiring tropical conditions. Temperature should be maintained between 21-28°C (70-82°F), with an optimal range of 22-26°C (72-79°F). They can tolerate brief temperature fluctuations but prolonged extremes (below 18°C or above 30°C) can be lethal. Humidity should be kept at 65-80%. Like most Cubaris, they prefer humid conditions with a moisture gradient: Approximately half the enclosure kept moist with sphagnum moss The remainder kept drier with just leaf litter coverage Mist the same areas consistently - don't shift the moisture gradient around Good ventilation is important despite the high humidity to prevent mould and stagnation. Balance is key - enough airflow to keep conditions fresh without drying things out too quickly. Enclosure type: Plastic containers with ventilation work well for breeding. Approximately 11 litres (6 quart) is suitable for a starter colony. Provide a secure lid as they can climb enclosure walls. They prefer to hide rather than burrow, so substrate depth of 2.5-7cm (1-3 inches) with plenty of cork bark, egg crates, and other hiding spots is ideal. Moss thickness of 5-7cm creates excellent hiding opportunities. Feeding Red Edge Blonde isopods are enthusiastic eaters with appetites larger than their size might suggest. They're not picky and will accept a wide variety of foods. Primary foods (should always be available): Decaying hardwood leaf litter (oak, magnolia) Rotting white wood Moss (both food and habitat) Decaying plant matter Supplementary foods (offered 1-2 times weekly): Vegetables - carrots, squash, potatoes Mushrooms and fungi Fish flakes or pellets Freeze-dried shrimp Commercial isopod foods Protein supplementation (1-2 times weekly): Dried shrimp Fish food Meat scraps Calcium supplementation (always available): Cuttlebone Bat guano (also provides nutrients) Crushed eggshells Oyster shell Limestone Superfood supplements: Commercial isopod superfoods containing balanced nutrients can be offered 1-2 times monthly. Important: Despite their large appetites, avoid overfeeding - excess food attracts pests and causes hygiene issues. Remove uneaten fresh food before it spoils. Maintain enclosure cleanliness by removing old food and moults regularly. Appearance and Behaviour Red Edge Blonde isopods reach approximately 1.5-2cm (17-20mm) as adults - a moderate size for Cubaris species. Colouration: White to cream base colour across the body Soft peachy-pink highlights along segment edges (the "red edge" in muted tones) Some individuals may show more pink than others Dark eyes (not red like true albinos) Overall appearance somewhat resembles albino but with pigmented eyes Their exoskeleton is well-developed and provides good protection. Like other isopods, they can roll into a defensive ball when threatened. Behaviourally, Red Edge Blonde isopods are: More active than many Cubaris species Visible during the day when comfortable (crepuscular to nocturnal primarily) Quick to scurry to hiding spots when disturbed Hardy and resilient once established Prolific breeders compared to sensitive Cubaris species They're sometimes described as excellent "desk pets" due to their activity levels and willingness to be visible. In terrariums with plenty of hiding spots, established colonies are regularly observable. They work well alongside springtails - the combination creates an effective cleanup crew for bioactive setups. Springtails handle smaller debris and mould while isopods process larger organic matter. Habitat Creating an appropriate habitat focuses on humidity, hiding spots, and cleanliness. Enclosure options: Plastic containers with ventilation (approximately 11 litres/6 quart for starter colonies) Glass terrariums with appropriate humidity management Secure lids essential - they can climb walls Temperature: 21-28°C (70-82°F), optimal 22-26°C. Humidity: 65-80% with moisture gradient. Ventilation: Moderate. Holes on multiple sides covered with mesh to prevent escape while allowing airflow. Substrate depth: 2.5-7cm (1-3 inches). Moss layer: 5-7cm thickness provides hiding opportunities. Moisture gradient setup: Approximately 50% of enclosure kept moist with sphagnum moss Remaining 50% kept dry with leaf litter Always mist the same area to maintain consistent gradient Hides: Essential - provide plenty of hiding spots throughout: Cork bark pieces Egg crates Coconut halves Lotus pods Leaf litter coverage Important considerations: They prefer hiding to burrowing Plenty of hides allows them to form colonies and feel secure Secure mesh over ventilation holes as they climb Clean enclosure regularly - remove uneaten food and moults When population grows large, consider rehoming some to a second enclosure Substrate Mix The substrate should retain appropriate moisture while providing nutrition. Base substrate options: Coconut coir Peat moss Commercial bioactive substrate Leaf humus Essential additions: Hardwood leaf litter (generous layer on top) White rotten wood pieces Charcoal pieces Sphagnum moss (for moist zone) Cork bark pieces throughout Calcium supplementation: Cuttlebone scattered throughout Limestone pieces Crushed oyster shell mixed in substrate Optional additions: Perlite (for drainage and nutrition) Cork granules Live mosses (food and habitat) Small ferns or ground cover plants (for visual appeal and additional hides) Layer structure: Base: 2.5-7cm substrate with good moisture retention Throughout: Decaying wood, cork bark, calcium sources Top: Generous leaf litter layer Moist zone: Thick sphagnum moss (5-7cm) covering approximately half the enclosure Maintain the moisture gradient consistently - always mist the same designated wet area. The dry side should remain genuinely dry, providing the isopods options to self-regulate. Breeding Red Edge isopods are considered prolific breeders for a Cubaris species, and the Blonde morph shares this characteristic. Breeding rate: Moderate to good for Cubaris. Once established, they breed reliably with consistent small to moderate broods. More prolific than demanding species like Rubber Duckies but not as explosive as Porcellio or Armadillidium. Optimal breeding conditions: Temperature at 22-26°C (72-79°F) Humidity at 70-80% Consistent moisture gradient Regular protein and calcium supplementation Plenty of hiding spots for females and mancae Minimal disturbance Establishment period: They typically settle into new environments without the extended delays seen in more sensitive Cubaris species. However, some settling time is normal - give them a few weeks to acclimate before expecting significant breeding activity. Population management: Monitor colony growth. When the enclosure becomes crowded, rehome some individuals to a second container. Overcrowding can lead to stress and reduced breeding success. Care for breeding success: Maintain consistent conditions (these isopods don't tolerate fluctuations well despite being "forgiving") Provide adequate protein for reproductive health Ensure calcium availability for developing offspring Keep multiple generations together - they don't harm each other Red Edge Blonde isopods are considered a great stepping stone for keepers who want to breed Cubaris without the challenges of ultra-sensitive species. Success with these will build skills applicable to more demanding varieties.

Cubaris sp. "Cherry Blossom" is one of the most visually stunning isopods in the hobby. Named for its soft pink and white colouration reminiscent of cherry blossom petals, this species stands out immediately in any collection. If you're looking for an isopod that genuinely makes people stop and say "wait, that's an isopod?" - this is the one. Cherry Blossom isopods are a selectively bred colour morph isolated from Cubaris sp. "Red Pak Chong" stock, with the original line developed in Japan. Interestingly, while the Japanese breeders named them "Cherry Blossom," American hobbyists often call them "Sakura" - which is just the Japanese word for cherry blossom. Full circle. These aren't beginner isopods. They're slow breeders, relatively sensitive to environmental fluctuations, and command a premium price. But for keepers who've cut their teeth on hardier species and want something genuinely special, Cherry Blossom isopods are absolutely worth the investment. A Glimpse Origin: Captive bred (selectively bred morph of Red Pak Chong lineage) Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. "Cherry Blossom" Difficulty Level: Medium Size: Up to 15mm Temperature: 22-26°C Humidity: 70-80% Rarity: Rare An Overview Cubaris sp. "Cherry Blossom" emerged from selective breeding of the Red Pak Chong lineage - itself originating from the limestone caves and karst formations of Thailand's Pak Chong district. The original Cherry Blossom line was isolated in Japan, where breeders selected for the distinctive pastel pink colouration that sets this morph apart. What makes Cherry Blossom so desirable is the soft, almost ethereal pink tone across their bodies, complemented by paler segmentation. The effect genuinely does evoke cherry blossom petals, and it's unlike anything else in the isopod hobby. They maintain this colouration throughout their lives, making them a permanent centrepiece species rather than one that fades as they mature. Unlike some of the more sedentary Cubaris species, Cherry Blossoms are surprisingly active and curious. They'll explore their enclosure, and you'll often find some hanging about in the open rather than permanently burrowed away. This makes them more rewarding to observe than many other high-end Cubaris varieties. Like their Red Pak Chong relatives, Cherry Blossoms share the genetic heritage of cave-dwelling ancestors. This means they appreciate high humidity, stable conditions, and plenty of calcium in their diet to support healthy exoskeleton development. Basic Care These are tropical isopods that require consistent warmth and humidity. Temperature fluctuations and dry conditions can stress them quickly. They're burrowers by nature, so provide deep substrate (at least 7-10cm) to allow for natural behaviour. While they need high humidity, good ventilation remains important. Stagnant, overly wet conditions invite mould and can harm the colony. Aim for a balance - moist but not waterlogged, with adequate airflow. Cherry Blossoms are shy creatures. Provide plenty of hiding spots including cork bark, moss, and thick leaf litter. They particularly seem to enjoy hiding inside acorn caps if you can source them. Minimise disturbance. These aren't isopods you want to be constantly checking on or moving around. Set up the enclosure properly from the start and let them settle. Start with a reasonable group size (10+ individuals) to ensure genetic diversity and increase breeding success. Small starter groups can struggle to establish. Expect slow reproduction. This isn't Porcellio pruinosus - broods are smaller and less frequent. Patience is required. Feeding Cherry Blossom isopods are detritivores with the typical Cubaris diet, though they benefit from slightly higher protein than some other species. Primary food sources: Decaying hardwood leaf litter (oak, beech, magnolia) - this should form the bulk of their diet Rotting white wood Sphagnum moss Supplementary foods: Fresh vegetables - particularly those high in carotenoids (pumpkin, carrot, sweet potato, corn, sweet peppers) which may help maintain colouration Fish flakes or dried shrimp (for protein, 2-3 times weekly) Soft fruits occasionally Lichen if available Calcium is essential for healthy moulting and exoskeleton development. Provide constant access to: Cuttlefish bone Limestone chunks Crushed eggshells Oyster shell Calcium powder Given their limestone cave origins, Cherry Blossoms have a higher calcium requirement than many species. Don't skimp on this. Remove uneaten fresh food within 24-48 hours to prevent mould. Appearance and Behaviour The defining feature of Cherry Blossom isopods is their distinctive pastel pink colouration, often with paler or cream-coloured segmentation that creates a delicate, blossom-like appearance. Adults reach approximately 15mm at maturity. They have the typical rounded, conglobating (ball-rolling) body shape characteristic of the Cubaris genus. When threatened, they'll curl into a tight ball - though well-established colonies in a settled enclosure rarely feel the need to do this. Behaviourally, Cherry Blossoms are more active than many Cubaris species. While they still spend plenty of time burrowed or hidden, you'll frequently see individuals exploring, especially during evening and nighttime hours. They're curious isopods that seem to enjoy investigating their environment. They're also faster movers than some of the more sedentary Cubaris varieties. This adds energy and interest to watching them but also means you need to be careful when opening the enclosure - they can make a dash for it if given the opportunity. Like all Cubaris, they're social and should be kept in groups. They coexist peacefully and there's no aggression to worry about. Habitat A secure enclosure is essential. While Cherry Blossoms aren't strong climbers on smooth surfaces, use a well-fitted lid to maintain humidity and prevent escapes. Size-wise, start with at least a 6-quart container for a small colony. Larger is better for established groups and allows for better humidity gradients. Temperature should be maintained at 22-26°C. Avoid temperatures below 18°C or above 28°C. Consistent warmth is more important than hitting a specific number. Humidity needs to be high - around 70-80%. The substrate should remain moist (not wet) at all times. One corner can be kept slightly drier to create a gradient. Ventilation is still important despite the high humidity requirement. Multiple small ventilation holes with fine mesh work well. Avoid completely sealed enclosures. Provide lots of hiding opportunities: cork bark flats, moss patches, thick leaf litter, and similar. The more secure they feel, the better they'll do. Lighting isn't critical. Ambient room light is fine. They're largely nocturnal but will come out during the day in a well-established colony. Substrate Mix Getting the substrate right is crucial for Cubaris species, and Cherry Blossoms are no exception. They need a moisture-retentive mix that mimics their natural environment while providing nutrition and burrowing opportunities. A good substrate mix consists of: 40% organic potting soil (pesticide-free) 30% coconut coir 20% sphagnum moss 10% leaf litter (mixed into substrate, with more layered on top) To this base, add: Rotting white wood pieces Limestone chunks or crusite Additional leaf litter on the surface (oak, beech, magnolia) Patches of live or dried moss Substrate depth should be at least 7-10cm to accommodate their burrowing behaviour. These isopods dig, and they need the space to do so comfortably. Maintain a moisture gradient: one end of the enclosure slightly damper than the other. This allows the isopods to self-regulate and find their preferred conditions. Mist regularly but avoid waterlogging - the substrate should be moist to the touch but not squelching wet. The limestone chunks serve double duty: they help buffer the substrate pH and provide an accessible calcium source that the isopods will graze on.