Panda King
12 - 15 Count per Culture
The Panda King Isopod (Cubaris sp.) is a captivating and sought-after species prized by isopod enthusiasts for its striking appearance and relatively easy care. Here's a breakdown of information about them:
Appearance:
Size: They are a small to medium-sized isopod, reaching about 1-2 centimeters (0.4-0.8 inches) in length.
Coloration: Their most distinctive feature is their striking black and white coloration, reminiscent of a panda. The black base color is adorned with bright white or cream-colored spots or stripes, creating a beautiful contrast.
Shape: They have a typical isopod body shape - oval-shaped and segmented, with seven pairs of legs.
Habitat and Care:
Origin: Native to the humid caves and forests of Vietnam.
Environment: They thrive in warm, humid environments with good ventilation.
Temperature: They prefer temperatures between 70-80°F (21-27°C).
Humidity: High humidity is essential for their well-being, ideally around 70-80%.
Substrate: A mix of damp soil, leaf litter, decaying wood, and sphagnum moss provides an ideal substrate.
Enclosure: A well-ventilated container with plenty of hiding places (cork bark, leaf litter, etc.) is necessary.
Other Characteristics:
Temperament: They are generally peaceful and easy to handle, though they prefer to stay hidden.
Breeding: They breed readily in captivity, with females carrying the eggs in a brood pouch until they hatch.
Lifespan: They can live for several years with proper care.
Bioactive Clean-up Crew: They are a popular choice for bioactive terrariums, where they help break down organic waste and contribute to a healthy ecosystem.
Important Notes:
Humidity: Maintaining high humidity is crucial for their health. Insufficient humidity can lead to molting problems and even death.
Ventilation: While they need high humidity, they also require good ventilation to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Diet: They are detritivores, feeding on decaying organic matter, leaf litter, and wood. They also benefit from supplemental feeding with fruits, vegetables, and protein sources like fish flakes or dried shrimp