Cubaris sp. Pak Chong Isopod

Cubaris sp. Pak Chong Isopod Care Guide

 

These lovely Cubaris species have a color pattern that immediately makes one think of a Bernese mountain dog. According to the little information that is known about this species, it may be found in caverns in Thailand’s Pak Chong region. Despite living in a range of environments in the wild, this species can endure higher levels of humidity than rubber ducks or white tigers and still flourish.

Southeast Asia is home to the adorable tiny isopod species known as Cubaris Sp. “Pak Chong.” They are sluggish breeders and will require some time to become established and begin reproducing in a culture or terrarium. In order to better replicate their natural surroundings, they also enjoy more limestone in their cage.

Size, Appearance, and Behavior

Cubaris Sp. Pak Chongs have white edges and a gray to blue tint with red to orange faces and tail ends. They are easily a favorite because of their outstanding color pattern. They are slow breeders, however, once established, they reproduce frequently and give wonderful color to any isopod collection.

The Pak Chong can grow to 0.71 inches and they do not have any unique needs, hence are a good species for beginners. They exhibit unique traits, like supplying moisture to one another, they usually roll up into a protective stance, curling up and squeezing in tight. 

The isopod’s likelihood of moving quickly decreases as the temperature rises. It is conserving energy to travel to a secure location. On the other hand, in colder climates, these isopods may move more quickly and across longer distances in looking for food or refuge. Although they are innocuous, they may be reserved.

Caring for Cubaris sp. Pak Chong Isopod

• Habitats

Since they hail from Pak Chong, this isopod species thrives well in humid and warmer temperatures. They can be bred in customized vivariums or terrariums. They should have adequate ventilation because they are a cave species, and there should be around 2 inches of space allowing air to circulate through. They use bark and cardboard egg cartons when available and need hides to get off the ground.

Vivariums or terrariums with lids are ideal, as the Pak Chong isopods are climbers and might just stage a jailbreak if they’re stored in exposed containers. 

• The Substrate

They thrive in a setting with sufficient calcium supply (from either limestone, eggshells, or cuttlebone) and at least 3 inches of substrate. Treat them like extremely pricey vegetable plants by providing a nourishing substrate and extras like shrimp meal, bat droppings, and rotting wood. Potty soil can be an excellent addition to their substrate.

• Feeding

The Pak Chong isopods can be fed a variety of food, ranging from fruits, vegetables, flakes of soil, dried leaves, and morning wood. They can be given special meal treats like dried shrimp, fish food, and other protein-rich foods.

• Temperature and Humidity

Temperature requirement is the range of 65 to 85 degrees, approximately. Extreme temperatures can be fatal.

Mist one side of the container while it’s reasonably humid to produce a moisture gradient. To assist maintain humidity, keep the moss on the damp side at all times, and never let it totally dry out. With the increasing humidity, it’s crucial to maintain enough ventilation to prevent mold formation.