Common name - Phoenix Isopod
Scientific name - Merulanella sp. "Phoenix"
Care Parameters:
- Temperature: 18-24 °C
- Humidity: high
- Ventilation/Airflow: high
- Difficulty: high for wild caught, medium for captive bred
- EXTREMELY RARE
The listing is for 1x CAPTIVE BRED animal, of a highly sought-after species of isopod (rolypoly/pillbug/woodlice) that is infamous for their striking cherry-red colouring, which is contrasted with patches of yellow and black. While this species looks very similar in appearance to Merulanella sp. "Tricolor", they are a different species according to the differing morphology of their lateral tubercules. Merulanella sp. "Phoenix" also tends to produce specimens with higher proportions of yellow and red when compared to tricolors.
This species is also notoriously bolder and more active compared to typical isopods, making them ideal for display set-ups or ideal for those that just like to see their isopods out and about more often. When a group is purchased, the isopods sent will be an assorted mixture of ages and sizes, to ensure a good start to a breeding colony.
These are CAPTIVE BRED in my collection and this culture has been stabilised to withstand captive conditions over several generations. Merulanella spp. have a bad reputation for being difficult to keep alive in captivity, but this usually only applies to people who have purchased wild-collected Merulanella from bulk importers. Captive bred populations of Merulanella spp. that have been stabilised are relatively easy to rear and breed readily.
Merulanella species prefer arboreal set-ups, so spacious enclosures should be provided with climbing material such as branches, pieces of rotting wood and cork bark. Good ventilation is a must for this species. The isopods feed on a variety of forest materials such as decaying wood and leaf litter. Additional supplements such as calcium (limestone/cuttlefish bone) and fish food should be offered as part of their balanced diet.
Shipping:
UK - Royal Mail Standard (NO live arrival guarantee)
UK - Royal Mail Special Delivery (live arrival guarantee)
DISPATCH DATE – Monday
*Orders are despatched collectively once a week every Monday. The cut-off time is Sunday 6pm (British Time), and any orders placed after the cut-off will scheduled for despatch the following Monday.*
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Orders are shipped at the buyer's own risk.
For the full T&Cs, please click on the link HERE.
*Disclaimer: These isopods are non-poisonous and pose no harm when treated with gentle care, aligning with our commitment to the welfare of all living beings.*
