Discover the Adorable and Exceptionally Rare Land-Dwelling Crustacean, the Rubber Ducky Isopod!
Basking in Cuteness with Rubber Ducky Isopods
The Rubber Ducky Isopod has been the star of the bioactive terrarium world, and it's not hard to see why! With their adorable yellow duck faces and painted tails, these critters are brimming with character.
Originating from Thailand, the Rubber Ducky Isopod, a relatively new species within the Cubaris family, was discovered in the limestone cave regions. This unique habitat gives them specific care requirements compared to other isopods.
These captivating creatures took the isopod world by storm a few years ago, creating a whole new category. Yet, despite the surge in popularity, they remain one of the rarer varieties on the market.
You may wonder why they're so elusive. Well, they've been quite challenging to breed in captivity, and they grow rather slowly, taking several months to reach maturity.
Once mature, Rubber Ducky Isopods will reach a size of around 2cm long, making them perfect for most reasonable terrariums or culture bins.
Shy and reclusive, they tend to burrow deep into the substrate when exposed. With their love for hiding, it's common to find worried enthusiasts asking if their freshly acquired Rubber Ducky Isopods have vanished.
Despite their elusive nature, Rubber Ducky Isopods continue to captivate aficionados, being a must-have for the avid isopod collector.
Terrarium Essentials for the Rubber Ducky Isopod
Environment and Climate
Given their tropical origins, these isopods prefer a damper environment with warm temperatures and elevated humidity levels. Ideal temperatures range from 70-80°F (21-27°C), close to comfortable household temperatures.
Although they do well in tropical terrariums, many keep them as pets rather than bioactive custodians. There's a significant untapped potential for exploring their care in naturalistic settings.
Since they love to hide under cork bark, consider adding some chunks to their enclosure.
Dietary Preferences
The Rubber Ducky Isopod has specific dietary needs. They are detritivores that consume decaying organic matter such as leaf litter and wood. To supplement their diet, provide protein sources like fish and supplements like our organic leaf litter and specialized isopod food.
Substrate Guide
A rich and well-structured substrate mix will cater best to the needs of the Rubber Ducky Isopod. We recommend:
- Peat moss or coco coir for moisture retention
- Decaying leaf litter and wood for food and shelter
- Limestone or calcium-rich additives to maintain proper pH and hardness
Combine these ingredients in a ratio of 25% peat moss/coco coir, 40% decaying wood and leaf litter, 15% sphagnum moss, and 10% limestone.
Place the substrate deep enough (minimum 6 inches) to allow for burrowing.
A Fond Farewell
Have you been fortunate enough to own a Rubber Ducky Isopod? Or are you thinking of adding one to your ever-growing isopod collection?
Whatever your isopod adventure may entail, we have a variety of exotic species available on our online store, including the Blonde Ducky Isopods.
Share your isopod stories or questions in the comments below! For more intriguing isopod insights, check out our guide to isopod species or explore our diverse collection of isopods for sale.
👉 Shop Rubber Ducky Isopods👉 Shop Organic Leaf Litter👉 Shop Premium Sphagnum Moss
- The Rubber Ducky Isopod, with its captivating appearance and unique dietary needs, is an excellent addition to a home-and-garden lifestyle, particularly for individuals interested in home terrariums.
- When considering various pet options, the Rubber Ducky Isopod, despite its elusive nature, is a must-have for the avid home terrarium enthusiast, with its charming lifestyle and specific care requirements.
