Phoenix Isopods (Merulanella sp.)

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.