Cubaris sp. Red Tiger Isopod

Cubaris sp. Red Tiger Isopod Care Guide

 

A breed of isopod originating from South East Asian caves, the Cubaris sp. Red Tiger Isopod is a beautiful, prolific, rare, and easy-to-breed species of isopods. 

They have lovely dark patterns of reds, orange and purple. They stand out as one of the most sought-after isopods. 

Their colorations and markings are unique, and some colorations and markings are more intense than the others.

The Red Tiger Isopods appear to endure higher humidity and lower ventilation and have a high preference for a mix of dampness within the enclosure, from dry on one side to clammy on the other. 

They also devour a variety of food from different sources, not limited to protein-rich vegetables and fish drops. 

Size, Appearance, and Behavior

The adult Cubaris Sp. Red Tiger Isopods can grow to 18mm long. Red tiger isopods by and large favor more small-sized breeds of around 1 to 20, yet they recreate well once they have been established— which might take some time.

As earlier mentioned, they are rather easy to breed and are very active. They are easy to find in an enclosure. At any slight disturbance, they tend to roll up into balls or crawl away to safety quickly. They also prefer to stay in dark areas. Also, their color tends to vary sometimes.

Caring for Cubaris sp. Red Tiger Isopod

• Habitats

When choosing a habitat for the Red Tiger Isopod, humidity must be taken into consideration, although they do not require much ventilation, it must also be considered. 

Vivariums that have customized ventilation holes and a lid to keep away fungus and other pests can be used in breeding them. 

The soil in the enclosure must be moist as well, but not wet. Drainage for the removal of excess water can be provided. 

The enclosure should be placed in a dark area, away from indirect sunlight, as this helps them thrive better. Ensure the enclosure is maintained at a constant temperature. It is recommended that 30-50% of their enclosure be damp.

• The Substrate

The substrate for the Red Tiger Isopod is not so difficult to prepare as they are not too picky. 

A similar substrate as most isopods living in a terrarium can be used for them. The normal substrate to use in terrariums is composed of different kinds of moss, leaf litter, and other organic materials. The substrate should be mixed with lime, it is a way of making them feel like they are in their natural habitat. 

• Feeding

Aside from high protein, the Red Tiger Isopods do not have any other special dietary demands. 

They should have their usual calcium source – limestone – and can be fed with meal varieties, like rotten wood, guano, shrimp meal, fish flakes, and vegetables occasionally.

They thrive well in an environment where they have sufficient varieties to munch on.

• Temperature and Humidity

The temperature and humidity are of utmost importance when breeding all Isopods, Red Tiger species inclusive. They have a higher preference for humid environments and will thrive well in temperatures slightly above 70F.