How To Take Care Of Your Isopods:

Cubaris murina—In Perspective

Cubaris murina or commonly known as “little sea pillbug” from the family Armadillidae is the most common isopods species present in the Philippines. If not the most common, could either be the first or second only to Nagurus species. If there is a presence of biodegradable and organic matter, you an expect that you can find a colony of Cubaris murina. The Cubaris murina can be identified by the two-orange specks on its back.

CARE SHEET

1. Substrate

The good news is, since Cubaris murina is a local species and can be considered as one of the sturdiest of the species, the substrate requirement need not be too fancy or very complicated. A topsoil is enough and can suffice. The depth of the substrate must at least be 3cm deep with 70% of the area moistened with water.

2. Temperature

As previously mentioned, this species is quite hardy, the ideal however would be between 25°C-33°C with humidity of at least 70% as well since they are primarily crustaceans and would appreciate a good amount of moisture and humidity in their enclosure.

3. Food

C. murina is considered detritivore which means their diet is compromised of almost anything organic and edible (for them). As along as there is a presence of an organic matter or decomposing organic matter inside your enclosure, your C. murina is sure to survive. Their diet can range from leaf litters, rotting wood, plants that are non-toxic for them (they do know which plants are toxic to them anyway) to fish food, fish flakes, dried small shrimps, fruits, vegetables, etc. and almost anything organic as mentioned.

4. Breeding

The bread fast and easy and considered early breeders with which you can see them breed within 2-3 months at least to show decent number increase.

5. Size

Generally, the adult can grow as big as 1.3-1.5 cm.

Please know that these are just basic care instructions for you. The longer you take care of them, the more that you discover their habits from which you can draw your conclusion you can personalize their care and rearing. With this information in mind, you are now ready to grow your Cubaris murina babies into a large colony they can be and maybe in the future, come up with your own care sheet as well. Happy rearing!!!