Cubaris Ice Flower Isopods

Cubaris sp. “Ice Flower”

Origin: Asia
Temperature: 18–26 °C (64–79 °F)
Humidity: 70–80 %
Adult Size: ~10 mm
Difficulty: Easy
Rarity: Rare

Description:
Cubaris Ice Flower is a visually stunning isopod with pastel hues ranging from soft whites and creams to subtle blues and greys. Each individual displays unique colour variations, making them a highly sought-after addition to bioactive terrariums. Despite their delicate appearance, they are hardy and adaptable.

Appearance & Behaviour:

• Small, compact size (~1 cm)
• Pastel coloration with high individual variation
• Smooth exoskeleton capable of conglobation (rolling into a ball)
• Nocturnal and social, often clustering together
• Peaceful and non-aggressive
• Moderate breeders once established

Habitat & Care:

• Enclosure: Well-ventilated container; at least 10 cm (4 in) substrate depth for burrowing
• Substrate: Mix of organic soil, coconut coir, sphagnum moss, and small amount of orchid bark; top layer of hardwood leaf litter for shelter and nutrition
• Humidity: 70–80%; maintain moisture gradient with damp and slightly drier zones
• Temperature: 18–26 °C; consistent warmth supports activity and breeding
• Hides & décor: Cork bark, dried leaves, and small wooden pieces provide shelter and enrichment
• Ventilation: Limited; ventilate only ~50 % of enclosure to maintain humid microclimate
• Calcium: Cuttlebone, crushed eggshells, or calcium powder for exoskeleton health

Diet & Nutrition:

• Primary foods: Decaying leaf litter (oak, beech, magnolia), rotting wood, decomposing plant matter
• Supplementary foods: Carrot, sweet potato, leafy greens, dried shrimp, high-quality fish food, specialized isopod diets
• Feeding approach: Goldilocks method—offer only what can be consumed within 24 h to prevent mould

Breeding:

• Moderate breeding once colonies are established
• Females carry eggs until juveniles emerge; juveniles remain near mothers initially
• Stable humidity, temperature, calcium, and protein supply ensure successful reproduction

Bioactive Use:

• Excellent cleanup crew in bioactive setups
• Aerates substrate, recycles nutrients, and breaks down organic matter
• Suitable for tropical vivariums, dart frog enclosures, and humid terrariums

Suitability:

• Recommended for beginners and experienced keepers
• Ideal for those seeking visually striking, rare isopods
• Compatible with other non-predatory, humidity-loving species

Care Level: Easy; hardy when maintained in stable, humid, and sheltered conditions.