Cubaris Ice Flower isopods are a very cool looking isopod! These little guys are a great example of nature’s design. They have beautiful pastel colours and so much colour variation, each one is a unique addition to any bioactive enclosure. With their frosty appearance they add an ethereal quality to terrariums and vivariums.
Info
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Origin: Asia
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Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. 'Ice Flower'
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Ease of Care: Easy
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Temp Range: 64℉ - 79℉ (18℃ - 26℃)
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Size: ~ 1 cm
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Rarity: Rare
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Humidity: 70% - 80% (medium-high)
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Diet: Leaf litter, decaying wood, vegetables
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Supplements: Cuttlebone, calcium powder, fish food
Cubaris Ice Flower Isopods: Introduction
These little isopods come from the humid, tropical forests of Asia where they live on the forest floor amidst decomposing organic matter. Cubaris Ice Flower isopods have beautiful pastel colours and so much colour variation, from pale whites and soft creams to subtle blues and greys. They are highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors.
Despite their delicate appearance they are surprisingly hardy and adapt well to captive environments. They are a crucial part of bioactive ecosystems, breaking down organic waste, aerating substrate and adding essential nutrients to the soil. Easy care makes them a great choice for beginners and experienced keepers.
Cubaris Ice Flower Isopods
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Pastel colours with high variation between individuals
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Compact size, ~ 1 cm long
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Hardy, forgiving care
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Great bioactive cleanup crew
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Moderate breeding once established
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Nocturnal, social behaviour
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Can conglobate (roll into a ball) when threatened
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Detritivorous diet benefits terrarium ecosystems
Feeding Cubaris Ice Flower IsopodsCubaris Ice Flower isopods are detritivores and feed on decomposing organic matter in the wild. In captivity they thrive on a varied diet mainly of high quality leaf litter which should be the base of their diet. Oak, beech and magnolia leaves are favourite options.
Supplement with small amounts of fresh vegetables like carrots, sweet potato and leafy greens. Protein sources like high quality fish food, dried shrimp or isopod diet should be given occasionally to support growth and breeding. Calcium supplementation through cuttlebone, crushed eggshells or calcium powder is essential for exoskeleton development.
Remember to follow the "Goldilocks Approach" - only provide food that can be consumed within 24 hours to prevent mould and pest issues in the enclosure.
Natural Habitat
In their native Asian habitats Cubaris Ice Flower isopods live in humid forest environments where they shelter beneath fallen logs, leaf litter and decomposing organic matter. They prefer shaded areas with consistent moisture and good air circulation. Understanding their natural habitat is key to creating a successful captive environment where they can thrive and display their natural behaviour.
Artificial Habitat for Cubaris Ice Flower Isopods
Create an ideal environment in a well ventilated enclosure with at least 4 inches of moisture retentive substrate. A mix of organic soil, coconut coir and sphagnum moss provides excellent moisture retention while allowing for natural burrowing.
Keep temperatures between 64-79℉ (18-26℃) and humidity 70-80%. Provide a moisture gradient with both damp and slightly drier areas for the isopods to self regulate their moisture needs. Add plenty of hiding spots with cork bark, dried leaves and wooden pieces.
Ventilate while maintaining humidity by adding ventilation holes to only 50% of the enclosure. This creates the necessary air circulation while preserving the humid microclimate these isopods need.
Preferred Substrate Mixture for Ice Flower Isopods
The ideal substrate blend combines moisture retention with drainage and nutrition. Mix organic potting soil (pesticide free) with coconut coir, sphagnum moss and a small amount of orchid bark for structure. Add a thick layer of mixed leaf litter on top which serves as both food and shelter.Add small pieces of cork bark and dried wood for extra hiding spots and natural enrichment. A light dusting of calcium powder or crushed limestone. Keep the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged, at least 4 inches deep for them to burrow.
This blend provides an environment that matches their natural habitat and all the nutritional and environmental needs for a healthy Cubaris Ice Flower isopod colony.
