Cubaris Iriomotensis Miyako, also sometimes referred to simply as the as the "Japanese Red edge" is an isopod of many names. The iriomotensis portion is largely considered incorrect because by definition it's a synonym for the much more common Cubaris Murina. A different type of Cubaris altogether. They originate from Miyako island in southern Japan so they are technically considered a locality. But at this point in time it is still common in the trade to see them described as some combination of all of the words that makes up their title as shown here.
A 6 quart gasket sealed storage bin or small glass aquarium is sufficient for a small starter culture. These little guys are on the smaller side averaging half an inch or slightly bigger so you don't need a large enclosure to comfortable house up to a few dozen or slightly more. Standard or bioactive enclosures can be enhanced with natural botanical items to simulate the isopods habitat in the wild. This helps them feel secure which in turn promotes their natural processes like eating and breeding. Average room temperature will suit them just fine but keep in mind they are native to tropical to sub tropical areas so so do not let it get too cool. A good temperature range for Miyako is 72-82F leaning more towards the warmer end if possible. Miyako isopods do not need a pronounced moisture gradient like most other isopods. A small gradient is fine, but a consistent lightly damp (not wet) enclosure is ideal. They will not fare well if allowed to get any level of dry. A 65%-75% humidity level without large deviations will keep them in their comfort zone. A few pieces of cork bark strategically placed over different parts of the enclosure will help retain the humidity levels and reduce the frequency of watering needed to maintain a proper moisture gradient. This species tends to enjoy bark flats slightly off or above the substrate so offer several hides with various levels of clearance from the substrate ranging from very close to a few inches so they can self regulate as needed.
Isopods are detrivores. Their primary diet in nature is leaf litter and decayed wood. Both of these should always be available in abundance. They will also happily consume any other decomposing organic plant or animal matter they come across. As such it is vital to supplement your isopods with other food sources on a semi regular basis. Japanese Red Edge isopods enjoy food options like squash, carrots, cucumbers and other veggies along with commercial isopod powdered food. They also tend to be protein hungry so offer them things like freeze dried minnows, shrimp, fish pellets, dried insects and other protein based food sources. Be sure to feed these on the drier side as they can spoil quickly in humid environments and attract unwanted pests. As with most any other Cubaris isopod, it's recommended to have some limestone in their enclosure. This mimics their natural cave environments and it should be no surprise Miyako island in basic terms is a very large chunk of limestone in the ocean. Small chunks of Texas holy rock or cuttle bone is a great option for this isopod.
This Cubaris is considered an intermediate level isopod and a great bridge to step up into more advanced sensitive species if you are ready for that journey. They are a bit finicky and needy, but also not extremely sensitive and prone to crashing with minor environmental deviations. They are slow breeders but will put out broods somewhat regularly if well maintained. They are most active at night and readily move about and explore their surroundings under cover of darkness. If you're lucky enough o catch them on the move thier bright red/orange skirts are visually appealing lined up against their dark base color.
Quick Facts
- Origin: Miyako Island in Southern Japan
- Classification: Armadillidiidae Sp. > Miyako
- Average Size: 1/2” inch
- Activity level: Primarily nocturnal and active at night
- Care Level: Intermediate