SKU: 63336315175

Lemon Blue Isopods (Cubaris sp.) for Sale UK

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Description

Lemon Blue Isopods (Cubaris sp.) for Sale UKThe Cubaris Lemon Blue is one of the most visually striking premium Cubaris in the hobby a Thai species defined by its bold lemon yellow body and the blue tinted inner segments that flash under direct light. The colour combination is genuinely unusual; most isopods don't combine warm and cool tones like this, and the effect when light catches them properly is unmistakable. They've been described as looking like "candy," and the comparison isn't a

The Cubaris Lemon Blue is one of the most visually striking premium Cubaris in the hobby — a Thai species defined by its bold lemon-yellow body and the blue-tinted inner segments that flash under direct light. The colour combination is genuinely unusual; most isopods don't combine warm and cool tones like this, and the effect when light catches them properly is unmistakable. They've been described as looking like "candy," and the comparison isn't a stretch.

That said, this is not a beginner species. Lemon Blues are slower breeders than most Cubaris, and their famous colouration depends heavily on diet — they will fade without consistent carotenoid-rich feeding. They reward keepers who put in the effort and disappoint those who don't. If you've kept other Cubaris successfully and want a genuine display species, they're one of the best choices available.

Available in groups of 5, 10, or 20. Captive-bred stock from established UK colonies.

Quick Care Summary

  • Scientific Name: Cubaris sp. 'Lemon Blue'
  • Common Name: Lemon Blue Isopod, Cubaris Lemon Blue
  • Family: Armadillidae
  • Origin: Thailand and parts of southern China — limestone karst regions near Cubaris sp. 'Jupiter' habitat
  • Adult Size: 15–20 mm
  • Lifespan: 2–4 years typical
  • Difficulty: Medium to High — not for beginners
  • Temperature: 21–29°C (70–85°F)
  • Humidity: 60–80% with moisture gradient
  • Ventilation: Low to medium — humidity retention prioritised
  • Behaviour: Conglobates, semi-social, more active than shy Cubaris species
  • Breeding: Slow — colony establishment takes 3–4+ months minimum

What Makes Lemon Blue Isopods Special

The visual appeal is the main draw, and it's genuine:

The yellow-blue colour combination is unique. Most isopods are predominantly one colour family — warm browns, oranges, and reds, or cool greys and blacks. Lemon Blues combine bright lemon-yellow with blue-tinted inner pereon segments visible through the exoskeleton. When direct light catches them at the right angle, the blue tones flash against the yellow background — a genuinely striking effect.

Distinctive yellow "skirt". Unlike Jupiter Isopods where yellow forms outlines around each individual segment, Lemon Blues display a continuous yellow band running front-to-back along the body edge. This creates the "skirt" appearance that's diagnostic for the species.

Colours improve with age. Newly arrived specimens often look underwhelming compared to mature, well-fed adults. Given time, proper conditions, and appropriate diet, the colours deepen and the blue tones become more pronounced. Patient keepers are rewarded.

Active and observable. Unlike some shy Cubaris species that hide constantly, Lemon Blues are reasonably active once established. They venture out to forage during dim conditions and don't disappear at the first sign of disturbance. This makes them genuinely viable as display animals rather than cleanup crew you rarely see.

Hard exoskeleton. Lemon Blues have firmer exoskeletons than some softer-bodied Cubaris, which means they're not easily predated in mixed enclosures. This also means they're not suitable as feeders for small reptiles or amphibians — but at this price point, you wouldn't be using them as feeders anyway.

How Lemon Blue Compares to Other Cubaris

If you're choosing between premium Cubaris species, here's how Lemon Blues fit in:

  • vs Jupiter Isopods: The closest comparison since both come from the same broader Thai region (Jupiter habitat is reportedly near Lemon Blue habitat in the wild). Jupiters have segment-by-segment yellow outlines on a black body; Lemon Blues have a continuous yellow skirt with blue inner segments. Jupiters are easier to breed and less colour-dependent on diet. Lemon Blues are more visually impressive when properly maintained but more demanding overall.
  • vs Panda King: Panda Kings are cheaper, breed faster, and have black-and-white patterning. Lemon Blues have richer colouration but slower breeding and more demanding husbandry. Panda Kings are the better gateway Cubaris; Lemon Blues are a step up.
  • vs Rubber Ducky: Rubber Duckies are larger with the iconic ducky-face shell shape. Lemon Blues are smaller but more colourful. Different aesthetic appeals — Rubber Duckies for shape, Lemon Blues for colour.

Browse the full Cubaris collection to compare all options.

The Diet Reality — Why Colour Matters

This is the most important section for anyone considering Lemon Blues. Their colouration isn't fixed — it depends on diet, and it can fade significantly without proper feeding.

The yellow tones come primarily from carotenoid pigments accumulated through diet. Carotenoids are natural plant pigments found in vegetables like carrot, sweet potato, butternut squash, and pumpkin. Isopods can't synthesise these pigments — they get them from food, store them in tissues, and display them through the exoskeleton. Without consistent carotenoid intake, the yellow fades. The blue tones seem less diet-dependent but overall vibrancy still reflects nutritional health.

Practical implication: Lemon Blues need carotenoid-rich foods offered several times weekly, not just occasionally. This is more frequent feeding attention than you'd give to species where colour isn't the main appeal. If you're not willing to maintain this feeding consistency, choose a different species — neglected Lemon Blues look disappointingly muted, like washed-out versions of the photos that drew you to them in the first place.

Setting Up the Enclosure

A 6–10 litre tub or small glass enclosure suits a starter colony of 5–10. Plastic tubs with clip-lock lids work well — they hold humidity better than glass terrariums, and humidity retention matters here.

Ventilation should be low to medium. Lemon Blues tolerate slightly more airflow than strict cave-dwelling species but still need humidity preserved. Small holes on opposite sides of the enclosure provide cross-ventilation without dropping humidity. Avoid wide mesh sections — they dry the enclosure out too quickly. Our accessories collection has appropriate enclosures and small-vent options.

Substrate

Build a layered substrate that matches their Thai limestone karst origins:

Base layer (5–6 cm): Organic topsoil mixed with flake soil for nutrition. Mix in sphagnum peat moss for moisture retention.

Calcium throughout: Generous quantities of crushed limestone mixed throughout the substrate. Lemon Blues come from limestone karst regions and benefit from substrate-level calcium availability, not just placed pieces on top.

Middle layer: Kinshi pieces and rotting white hardwood. Both provide food value and structural complexity. Tropical Cubaris actively feed on fungal-decomposed wood.

Top layer: Generous leaf litter using magnolia leaves for long-lasting cover, bamboo leaf litter for structure, and Asian leaf mix for native Thai/Vietnamese leaves. Add multiple cork bark pieces for hides — Lemon Blues use them actively for shelter and moulting.

Sphagnum moss patches: Place in corners to maintain localised humidity zones without making the entire enclosure too wet.

Humidity and the Moisture Gradient

Maintain humidity at 60–80%. Lemon Blues handle a slightly broader range than some cave-dwelling Cubaris but still need consistent moisture. Mist regularly and ensure the substrate stays damp without being waterlogged.

Create a moisture gradient:

  • Damper side (around half the enclosure): Moist substrate with sphagnum moss and damp leaf litter
  • Slightly drier side: Drier substrate where they can choose drier conditions if needed

The gradient lets the colony self-regulate. It also helps prevent mould issues that develop in uniformly humid enclosures.

Temperature

21–29°C is the comfort range. They tolerate a reasonable range, but stable conditions matter more than hitting any specific point. Most UK homes provide acceptable temperatures during warmer months; in winter, a low-wattage heat mat on the side of the enclosure (never underneath) connected to a thermostat keeps the colony in the breeding-friendly range. Avoid sustained exposure below 20°C or above 30°C.

Diet — The Critical Section

Diet is where Lemon Blue care most clearly differs from other Cubaris. The colour-maintaining feeding regime isn't optional.

Primary diet (always available):

  • Decaying leaf litter — magnolia, oak, beech
  • Rotting white hardwood
  • Kinshi — fungal-decomposed wood

Carotenoid-rich vegetables (essential — offer 2–3x weekly):

  • Carrot — particularly high in beta-carotene
  • Sweet potato — orange-fleshed varieties especially
  • Butternut squash and pumpkin
  • Cucumber as variety
  • Sweet pepper (orange or red)

Protein supplementation (1–2x weekly):

Calcium (always available):

  • Cuttlebone permanently in the enclosure
  • Limestone mixed into substrate (essential for limestone-karst species)

Repashy supplements: Morning Wood is well-suited to Lemon Blues — calcium-fortified, plant-based, and contains additional carotenoid sources (paprika, marigold flower, calendula). It's one of the few formulated products that supports the colour-maintenance feeding regime.

Bee pollen: Often suggested for Cubaris and worth offering. Some keepers report Lemon Blues take it readily; others report indifference.

Breeding

Lemon Blues are slow breeders, even by Cubaris standards. Set realistic expectations — this is not a species you buy expecting rapid colony growth.

Establishment time: 3–4 months minimum before stable breeding begins. Often longer. Don't panic if your colony isn't producing offspring in the first quarter.

Brood characteristics: Moderate brood sizes when breeding does occur. Population growth is gradual rather than explosive.

Conditions for breeding:

  • Stable warm temperatures (22–27°C)
  • Consistent humidity (60–80%)
  • The full colour-maintaining diet (well-fed colonies breed better than malnourished ones)
  • Abundant calcium
  • Deep substrate for security and moulting
  • Minimal disturbance, especially during establishment
  • Larger starter groups (10+) provide better genetic diversity

Patience is essential. Resist constantly checking the enclosure during the first few months. Undisturbed colonies establish faster.

Pair With Springtails

Add a thriving springtail culture from day one. Lemon Blues need consistent humidity, and humid enclosures develop mould without springtail cleanup. Springtails handle frass and microbial growth at a scale isopods can't manage. They coexist peacefully with Lemon Blues and are essential rather than optional.

Who Should Buy Lemon Blue Isopods?

Good choice for:

  • Keepers with successful Cubaris experience wanting a genuine display species
  • Collectors building a Cubaris collection across visual styles
  • Anyone willing to maintain consistent carotenoid-rich feeding
  • Keepers who value visual impact and have patience for slow colony growth
  • Display setups where appearance matters more than population size

Not ideal for:

  • Beginners — start with hardier species first (Dairy Cows, Porcellio scaber) or accessible Cubaris (Panda King, Jupiter)
  • Anyone wanting low-maintenance, set-and-forget species
  • Keepers expecting fast breeding or population growth
  • Reptile/amphibian keepers wanting feeders (their hard exoskeletons make them poor prey, and the price doesn't justify feeder use)
  • Anyone unwilling to maintain consistent carotenoid feeding (your animals will fade)

Realistic Expectations

Newly arrived Lemon Blues often look less impressive than the marketing photos. This is normal. Stress from shipping, recent acclimation, and diet variability all affect colour. Given 2–3 months of stable conditions and proper feeding, the colours deepen significantly. Mature, well-fed adults develop richer yellow tones and more visible blue flashing than newly-arrived juveniles.

The flip side: poorly maintained Lemon Blues fade. Without consistent carotenoid intake, the lemon-yellow loses saturation. With inadequate calcium, moulting becomes problematic. Without humidity stability, the colony stresses and stops breeding. They're rewarding for keepers who put in the effort, and they punish neglect more visibly than hardier species.

Building Your Setup — Pairs Well With

For a complete Lemon Blue setup:

For more on Cubaris species, read our blog post 23 different types of Cubaris isopods you should know about. Browse the full Cubaris collection or all isopods for more options. New keepers should also see our setting up guide for full enclosure walkthroughs.

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SKU: 63336315175

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Vikki Lynn
Natrona Heights, US
★★★★★ 5
Unraveling Fate and Fae: A Captivating Journey in "Queen of Roses"
Format: Kindle
"Queen of Roses" by Briar Boleyn is a dark fantasy romance that masterfully combines elements of myth, magic, and romance with a captivating King Arthur retelling infused with a Fae twist. From its intricately woven plot to its compelling characters, this novel delivers an immersive reading experience that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment. At its core, "Queen of Roses" is an enchanting tale of forbidden love and destiny, featuring an exceptionally slow-burn romance that ignites with the intensity of an enemies-to-lovers trope. Against a backdrop of magic and mythical creatures, the story unfolds with tension, banter, and forced proximity, drawing readers into a world filled with love, friendships, self-discovery, and betrayal. While the novel excels in world-building, character development, and plot intricacies, some readers may yearn for a bit more fire and spice in certain aspects of the narrative. However, the promise of future developments in the series offers hope for an even more dynamic and engaging story to come. I know I personally cannot wait to get into book 2. With a cliffhanger ending that leaves hearts racing and minds reeling, "Queen of Roses" succeeds in immersing readers from start to finish. Its dark and twisted fantasy elements are expertly balanced with moments of adventure, action, and unexpected twists, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page. As the story delves into complex themes and explores the depths of its characters' struggles and desires, it's important to note that "Queen of Roses" may contain triggering content. Readers are advised to check the trigger warnings before diving into this captivating tale. Overall, "Queen of Roses" is a must-read for fans of dark fantasy romance, offering a mesmerizing journey that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the series. With its lush prose, intricate storytelling, and unforgettable characters, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who venture into its enchanted world. I want to extend a heartfelt shoutout to the author for granting me the opportunity to dive into "Queen of Roses" through NetGalley. It has been an absolute pleasure to explore the captivating world and characters crafted with such skill and imagination. Thank you for entrusting me with this glimpse into your enchanting world.
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Reviewed in the United States on April 1, 2024
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Luna Fae
Charlottesville, US
★★★★★ 4
Right from the start, I was drawn in by the prologue!!!
Format: Paperback, Format: Paperback
Queen of Roses (Blood of a Fae #1) by Briar Boleyn Genre General Fiction ( Adult), Romance, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Dark Romance “More primordial than the stars. My name was on his lips as he promised unspeakable darkness to any who came between us.” Right from the start, I was drawn in by the prologue!!! I’m a big fan of “touch her, and you die” vibes, but I mean, what’s also not to love about a unique Arthurian retelling with gender twists, a treacherous royal court, a dangerous quest, magical Fae & mystical monsters, entwined with a bit of spice! Morgan, Princess of Pendrath and true heir to the throne has spent most of her life dimming her light to feel safe and to make others comfortable. She is treated as an outcast in the court and repressed by her family due to the blood of the Fae within her and forced to join the Temple of the Three as a priestess in training to one day replace Merlin. Her brother, King Arthur, who reminds me of Joffrey from Game of Thrones, later tells her that he has other plans and offers her a choice of the Temple or to marry her off for political gain, unless… that is, she can journey through the great unknown and return with a long-lost fae weapon with enchanted powers known as Excalibur. Her quest begins with a roguish crew that includes the mysterious, arrogant, and heart-tuggingly handsome Captain of the Royal Guard, Kairos Draven, whom she can’t decide if she wants to stab or indulge in pleasure with. Along the way are plenty of surprises, mystical creatures, and betrayal, all while Morgan uncovers more of the truth about herself and who she can trust. This book had intriguing storylines and lovable characters that kept me turning pages and wanting more. I can’t wait to see how it all unfolds and comes together in book 2, Court of Claws, which I just started reading!! Read if you’re into- Dark Fantasy/Romance Slow–Burn Question Everything Magic and Action Fae Arthurian Legend Stabby/Broken FFC Morally Gray MMC Forced Proximity Queen of Roses is perfect for Holly Black, Jennifer L. Armentrout, and Sarah J. Maas fans. Please check the trigger warnings page in the table of contents before reading this book.
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Reviewed in the United States on August 16, 2023
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Amanda Greathouse
Natrona Heights, US
★★★★★ 3
3.5 stars, A little boring to say the least.
Format: Kindle
Wow so I'm not sure where to begin on this one. This was a very different take on the legend of Arthur and Excalibur. This is told from the point of view of Morgan the sister of Arthur. Honestly the first 50% of this book is world building and character building which unfortunately was super boring for me. Morgan to me was a female MC that had a hard time in believing in herself. Sometimes taking too long to understand exactly what was going on around her. Draven was also a different male MC, like I couldn't put my finger on him and what he was all about. It was not until the last 10% of the book did we get some answers on the mystery that is Draven. The other 50% of the book centered around this big journey with everyone having a different motive. We see a spark of magic around this time that had me excited but then we never expanded upon that and what it could mean for the female MC. I feel like I want to read the second book just to see where this goes, but the spice was probably a 2 out of 5. Side characters are ok, Lancelet was fun but I almost felt like I wanted more.
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Reviewed in the United States on September 13, 2023
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Krystina
Alexandria, US
★★★★★ 5
A bewitching retelling of Arthurian legend!
Format: Kindle
In a land where the Fae have nearly become only a legend and those who still posses even a morsel of the blood are few and far between, Morgan finds herself cast aside by most of society due to her rumored half-Fae lineage, including her brother, King Arthur. With the kingdom at the brink of war, Arthur entrusts her with a quest to retrieve a Fae weapon of legendary power: the sword of Perun, Excalibur. Accompanied by men she loathes, Captain Kairos Draven and Ragnar Whitehorn, she embarks on her long and unbeknownst perilous journey, only to find that things she once believed to be myth are in fact very real. With devastating twists, omitted truths, witty banter and fierce action, Queen of Roses leaves you begging to know more about the secrets of Aercanum! Wow, wow, wow! Going into this story, I did not realize that it was going to be a retelling of Arthurian legend, especially not one with a fantastical twist! The unique spin almost gave me The Witcher vibes and I think adding Fae into the mix was quite interesting. I knew the basics of the legend but after reading this book, it has piqued my interest and makes me want to learn more about it. My attention was snatched as soon as I finished the prologue and I knew that I was going to devour this story. I truly enjoyed the gender swaps and even how Arthur was portrayed as villainous. Morgan’s past and even her parts of her present is absolutely heartbreaking, and I felt for her at times. I can only recall one other book that made me hate characters the way I despised Florian and Arthur, leaving me with my blood boiling and feeling disgusted. Even after finishing the book, Draven is still a mystery to me and I cannot figure out how to feel about him. I guess they just means that the author did an excellent job at conveying each character’s persona! The rich world building and imagery made it easy for me to visualize the places that the group visited along their journey. I am truly engulfed in this story and I cannot wait to see wait fate awaits Morgan and how the Fae will be even more incorporated in the next book!. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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Reviewed in the United States on August 11, 2023
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Tiana
Lexington, US
★★★★★ 4
Enchanting
Format: Kindle
"Queen of Roses" by Briar Boleyn is a delightful and refreshing reimagining of the classic tale of King Arthur, with a captivating twist that places the spotlight on Morgan, a character who has often been overshadowed in traditional retellings. Boleyn's creative decision to shift the narrative perspective to Morgan breathes new life into the story, offering readers an intriguing and compelling look at the Arthurian world from an entirely different angle. One of the most commendable aspects of this book is its incorporation of Fae elements, which adds an enchanting layer of magic and mystery to the already familiar Arthurian setting. Boleyn skillfully weaves the world of the Fae into the narrative, creating a captivating backdrop against which the events of the story unfold. This addition not only adds depth to the world-building but also provides ample opportunities for twists and turns that keep readers thoroughly engrossed. However, while the book boasts numerous strengths, it does have one noticeable flaw: the characterization of Morgan. While it is reasonable to create a flawed and complex protagonist, it appears that at times, Morgan's character becomes overly difficult and hard to relate to. Her persistently negative perception of one of the main male characters, who is a potential love interest, despite his efforts to support and assist her, may come across as somewhat irrational and could test the patience of some readers. Striking a balance between a strong, independent character and one who can recognize genuine support and affection could have enhanced the overall reader experience. Nonetheless, the allure of "Queen of Roses" lies in its innovative approach to the Arthurian legend and its skillful blending of fantasy elements into a familiar narrative. Boleyn's evocative prose draws readers into a world where magic, destiny, and fate entwine, leaving us eager to uncover the mysteries that unfold within the pages. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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Reviewed in the United States on July 28, 2023

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