Cubaris spec. „Pak Chong“ – tropical ornamental isopod for the terrarium with distinctive markings and a compact body. This species is popular in the hobby primarily for its dark base color with light side accents and its often reddish to orange colored head and posterior. It is suitable for humid isopod setups, terrariums, and structured bioactive enclosures.
What makes Cubaris spec. „Pak Chong“ special:
– Striking contrast markings: dark body with light side areas and often reddish-orange accents
– Compact size: small to medium-small Cubaris species for structured setups
– Tropical species: suitable for warm, humid keeping conditions
– Easy to observe: usually not constantly out in the open, but regularly visible under suitable conditions
Climate & Setup:
A humic substrate with leaf litter, white-rotted wood, moss, and hiding places like cork or bark has proven effective. A humidity gradient is important: one corner remains permanently moist, while the rest of the area is kept only slightly to moderately moist. Good ventilation remains important despite the higher humidity. The setup can be maintained at approximately 22–26 °C as a sensible temperature range.
Feeding & Care:
The basis consists of leaves, rotten wood, and organic forest material. Additionally, fresh food such as zucchini or sweet potato can be offered regularly. Small amounts of protein and a permanent calcium source like cuttlebone or calcium supplement are beneficial. Food remnants should be removed regularly.
Breeding & Development:
Cubaris spec. „Pak Chong“ is considered reliably breedable under stable conditions. Reproduction is described as moderate to good, depending on the source. Stable development primarily depends on consistent humidity, suitable temperatures, calcium supply, and a well-structured setup.
Who this species is interesting for:
– for keepers looking for a striking tropical Cubaris species
– for humid terrariums and isopod boxes with a stable microclimate
– for structured setups with leaves, wood, moss, and a clear humid zone
– for experienced isopod keepers with tropical species or those who want to specifically start with Cubaris
Suitable accessories:
For clean feeding and structured keeping, depending on the setup, an isopod bowl, double isopod bowl, or a suitable BioFaunaCube can be used.
| Experience |
Humidity |
Temperature |
| ★★★☆☆ |
high with humidity gradient |
22–26 °C |
Is Cubaris spec. „Pak Chong“ suitable for beginners? +
This species is usually described as medium in difficulty. It is well-kept if temperature, humidity, and structure in the setup remain stable.
What does Cubaris spec. „Pak Chong“ eat? +
The basis consists of leaves, white-rotted wood, and organic forest material. Additionally, fresh food, protein, and calcium are suitable.
What kind of keeping is appropriate? +
A warm, humid, and well-structured setup with leaves, wood, moss, and a clearly humid zone with good ventilation is appropriate.
How fast does the species reproduce? +
Cubaris spec. „Pak Chong“ is considered reliably breedable. How fast the colony grows strongly depends on the climate, food, and stability of the setup.