Cubaris Sp.Murina

Product Description

Cubaris sp. "Murina" (The "Little Mouse" Isopod) is one of the most versatile, hardy, and charming species in the hobby. While many Cubaris species are known for being finicky, the "Murina" is a robust and prolific exception. Named for its soft, velvety grey-to-blue coloration and its rounded, "mouse-like" appearance, it is a staple for both collectors and bioactive enthusiasts.

This is a "rolling" species that tucks into a perfect, smooth sphere when disturbed. They are incredibly peaceful and social, often found congregating in large groups. Because of their high breeding rate and tolerance for humidity, they are widely considered the best "Clean-Up Crew" for tropical and subtropical bioactive terrariums, outperforming many other species in breaking down waste and preventing mold.

Perfect for bioactive vivariums (Dart Frogs/Geckos), beginner Cubaris keepers, and enthusiasts who want a productive and adorable colony.

Species Information

• Species: Cubaris sp. Murina
• Common Name: Little Mouse Isopod / Tropical Pill Bug
• Origin: Southeast Asia (Now circumtropical)
• Size: ~1.0–1.2 cm (Small and rounded)
• Activity Level: Moderate / Social
• Rarity: Common / Essential for Bioactive Setups

Care Requirements

• Difficulty: Very Easy (The hardiest Cubaris)
• Humidity: Medium to High. They thrive in tropical conditions. Maintain a 60/40 gradient: a large, damp moss area is essential, but they still benefit from a slightly drier retreat.
• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F). They love warmth and humidity.
• Ventilation: Moderate. They are much more tolerant of stagnant air than Porcellio species, making them ideal for sealed terrariums.
• Substrate: Moisture-retaining organic soil mix (Abiosoil) with plenty of decaying wood and leaf litter.

Must Provide:

• Cork Bark or Seed Pods: They love to hide inside small crevices and botanical decorations.
• Abundant Soft Leaf Litter: They prefer softer leaves like Magnolia or Sea Grape, but Oak works well too.
• A large, consistently damp "hydration zone" (Sphagnum moss).
• Consistent access to calcium (cuttlebone).

Origin and Distribution

Originally native to Southeast Asia, Cubaris sp. "Murina" has successfully established itself in tropical regions worldwide (Florida, Caribbean, etc.).

This wide distribution is a testament to their incredible adaptability. In the wild, they are found in the humid leaf litter of tropical forests and near limestone outcrops. Unlike their more "diva" cousins (like the Rubber Ducky), the Murina has evolved to handle environmental fluctuations, making them the perfect "entry-level" Cubaris.

Diet

• Primary: Decaying leaf litter and white-rotted wood.
• Protein: Moderate demand. Provide dried shrimp, fish flakes, or isopod chow 1-2 times a week.
• Vitamins: They love soft vegetables like cucumber, zucchini, and squash.
• Calcium: Essential for their round, protective shells.

What You Receive

• Starter culture of X Cubaris sp. "Murina" isopods.
• Mixed sizes (juveniles and adults) to ensure immediate breeding and population growth.

Why Buy From Us

✔ Extremely healthy, fast-breeding captive stock.

✔ Secure, moisture-sealed packaging for guaranteed live arrival.

✔ The ultimate "utility" isopod that brings both beauty and function to your terrarium.