White Ducky Isopods - Cubaris sp. 'White Ducky'

Meet the monochrome marvel that has taken the isopod world by storm! White Ducky isopods represent one of the most spectacular and sought-after variations of the legendary Rubber Ducky species, showcasing stunning black and white coloration that creates an absolutely mesmerizing contrast pattern. Originally from the lush tropical forests of Thailand, these extraordinary specimens combine the beloved "duck face" characteristics and adorable appearance of their famous cousins with breathtaking silver-white and black coloration accented by distinctive caramel-colored arrows pointing toward their heads.

A Glimpse

• Origin: Thailand (Captive Bred) • Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. 'White Ducky' • Difficulty Level: High - Advanced Keepers • Adult Size: Up to 21mm (0.83 inches) • Rarity: Extremely High • Temperature: 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C) • Humidity: 70% to 85% with moisture gradient • Favorite Foods: Decaying wood, leaf litter, vegetables, protein supplements • Supplements: High-protein diet twice weekly, calcium sources

Overview

White Ducky isopods represent the pinnacle of Cubaris collecting, showcasing some of the most breathtaking coloration patterns in the entire isopod hobby. These extraordinary specimens display stunning contrasts with bright white anterior and posterior ends that cap off a deep gray to black central body, all accented by distinctive caramel or orange-colored arrow markings that point toward their heads like natural compass needles. Originally from Thailand's tropical forests, they've rapidly become legendary among advanced collectors for their incredible beauty, larger size compared to regular Rubber Duckies, and surprisingly outgoing personality once established. While they share the classic Cubaris "duck face" profile and conglobation abilities that make the family famous, White Duckies offer a monochrome masterpiece that commands attention and respect from even the most experienced keepers.

Basic Care

White Ducky isopods are strictly for advanced keepers who have successfully maintained other premium Cubaris species and are ready for the ultimate challenge. They require exceptionally stable conditions with temperatures between 65-85°F and absolutely no sudden fluctuations that can stress these sensitive beauties. Humidity must be maintained between 70-85% with precise moisture gradients and excellent ventilation to prevent stagnation. These semi-fossorial specialists need deeper substrates (2-3+ inches) to support their natural behaviors and prefer a 70/30 humid-to-dry ratio throughout their enclosure. They're slower to establish than other species, taking longer to reach maturity (approximately 6 months) and producing smaller broods, but their incredible beauty and complex behaviors make every effort worthwhile for dedicated collectors.

Feeding

Calcium • Cuttlefish bone pieces (essential for their striking coloration) • Limestone granules for ongoing supplementation • Crushed oyster shell pieces • Calcium powder occasionally dusted on foods

Protein (Essential - Feed Twice Weekly) • Freeze-dried shrimp (highly preferred) • High-quality fish pellets • Dried bloodworms • Freeze-dried minnows • Reptile shed skin when available

Primary Diet • White rotten wood pieces (absolutely critical nutrition source) • Hardwood leaf litter (oak, birch, maple) • Fresh vegetables (sweet potato, carrot, squash) • Forest moss and lichens • Premium Cubaris-specific pellets

Appearance and Behaviour

White Ducky isopods are absolutely spectacular specimens that perfectly demonstrate why they're considered the crown jewels of Cubaris collecting. Adults reach an impressive 21mm with robust, rounded bodies that showcase the beloved "duck face" profile in monochrome perfection. Their most striking feature is their stunning black and white contrast pattern - bright silver-white caps on both head and tail regions connected by a deep gray to black central body. The distinctive caramel or orange-colored arrow markings that point toward their heads add a beautiful accent that breaks up the monochrome pattern perfectly. They exhibit full conglobation ability, rolling into perfect black and white spheres when threatened. More outgoing than regular Rubber Duckies once established, they display complex social behaviors and are surprisingly active during both day and night, making them exceptional observation subjects.

Habitat

A minimum 15-quart container is essential for starter colonies, but White Ducky isopods truly require larger 25+ quart setups or 20+ gallon terrariums to support their substantial adult size and complex behavioral needs. Substrate depth must be 2.5-3+ inches minimum to accommodate their semi-fossorial lifestyle and provide proper moisture retention zones. Create precise environmental gradients with approximately 70% of the enclosure maintained as consistently moist using quality sphagnum moss, while ensuring excellent ventilation prevents mold development. Cork bark pieces, wooden hides, and extensive moss coverage provide essential retreat areas and maintain the humid microclimate they absolutely require. Multiple hiding options and varied substrate textures support their natural behaviors and help reduce stress in these premium specimens.

Substrate Mix

Create optimal conditions with this specialized mixture:

Base Layer (55%): • Premium organic topsoil (pesticide-free) • Aged tropical forest humus for natural pH buffering • Quality peat moss for moisture retention and slight acidity

Organic Amendments (30%): • White rotten wood pieces (20% - absolutely essential nutrition) • Aged cork bark pieces • Decomposing hardwood leaves for ongoing nutrition

Moisture and Mineral Components (15%): • Limestone granules (10% - critical for calcium needs) • Sphagnum moss patches for humidity maintenance • Optional: Fine sand for drainage in specific areas

Moisture Management: Maintain substrate that feels consistently moist throughout 70% of the enclosure, like a well-wrung sponge that maintains structure when compressed. White Ducky isopods are extremely sensitive to moisture fluctuations and require higher humidity than most species to maintain their stunning coloration and support successful breeding. Monitor carefully with a hygrometer and maintain 70-85% humidity while ensuring excellent ventilation prevents mold development. Never allow the substrate to become waterlogged, but also never let the moist areas dry out completely as this can be fatal to these sensitive specimens.

Special Considerations: White Ducky isopods are among the most demanding Cubaris species and require absolute consistency in care. Their Thai origins mean they're adapted to stable tropical conditions, so any environmental fluctuations can cause stress, poor coloration, or breeding failures. They respond exceptionally well to premium substrate composition and diverse microhabitat options that mimic their natural forest floor environment. Patience is essential as they're slow to establish and mature, but once stable, they reward dedicated keepers with incredible beauty and fascinating behaviors that make them the ultimate prize in Cubaris collecting.