Care Guide

Salmon Caribodillo martinicensis

A soft salmon-pink Isopod with warm peachy tones and exacting care requirements.

Salmon Isopod
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Adult Size
21 mm
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Humidity
75-85%
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Temp
70–80°F
Difficulty
Intermediate
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Origin
Lesser Antilles of the West Indies
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Overview

'Salmon' isopods were once classified as Cubaris sp. Caribodillo martinicensis is the new taxon name. It’s a medium-large isopod from the island of Martinique. The older the isopod the darker the color. These salmon-color beauties are easy to keep and breed, and therefore suitable for beginners. Like Cubaris sp., it demands consistent high humidity, stable warmth, and a well-established enclosure. Its soft color makes it a uniquely elegant display species.

Common Name
Salmon
Scientific Name
Caribodillo martinicensis - prior name Cubaris sp.
Morph / Locale
Salmon
Family
Armadillidiidae
Lifespan
2–3 years
Behavior
Shy, communal
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Habitat & Setup

Min. Enclosure
6 qt+
Substrate Depth
3–4 inches
Ventilation
Low
Lighting
No direct light

Substrate mix: For best results, use Isopod Paradise Organic Substrate specifically formulated to support healthy colonies. If you would rather mix your own, we recommend a blend of 70% organic topsoil, 10% flake soil, 10% milled sphagnum moss, 8% organics(mushroom compost, earthworm castings and leaf litter) and 2% calcium

Hides & decor: Bark tubes and flats, leaf litter layer, moss patches, coco huts, lotus pods. Cuttlebone for calcium source.

Moisture: High gradient moisture — damp substrate 70/30 gradient. Mist weekly.

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Diet & Feeding

Carotenoid-rich feeding (sweet potato, carrot, shrimp) supports the warm pink-orange coloration.

✓ Feed These

  • Indian almond leaf litter
  • Sweet potato, carrot (carotenoid-rich)
  • Dried shrimp, fish flakes
  • Powder formulas like Isopod Chow, Repashy Morning Wood, Bug Burger, etc.
  • Mushroom pieces

Feeding frequency: Rotate foods on a weekly basis. Remove leftover food when food begins to mold.

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Breeding & Lifecycle

Not affected by seasons and breeds throughout the year.

Gestation
7–10 weeks
Brood Size
Small
Time to Maturity
5–8 months
Breeding Ease
Moderate

Mancae care: Very sensitive. High humidity and springtails essential.

Colony tips: Consistent carotenoid feeding maintains the salmon color across generations. Set up the enclosure well before adding animals.

🌿 Did You Know?

The salmon color in this species comes from carotenoid pigments — the same compounds that make salmon, flamingos, and shrimp pink.