Scarlet Isopods (Ardentiella sp.): A Care Guide
Scarlet Isopods (Ardentiella sp.) are a vivid red display species that thrive in a humid, well-decorated enclosure with deep leaf litter, a calcium source and stable warmth. Their fiery colour makes them a standout in any established bioactive setup.
If you want a real pop of colour in your vivarium, few isopods deliver like Scarlet. Here’s how to keep them thriving.
What are Scarlet Isopods?
Ardentiella sp. “Scarlet” is prized for its bright, fiery red colouring, which stands out beautifully against dark substrate and leaf litter. They’re a tropical, humidity-loving species best kept as a display animal in an established enclosure. See our current Scarlet Isopods stock.
Enclosure and conditions
- Substrate: a deep mix of coco fibre, leaf mould and decaying wood.
- Leaf litter: a generous layer of oak, beech or magnolia as their main food and cover.
- Hides: cork bark and dark retreats.
- Calcium: cuttlefish bone or limewood, always available.
- Temperature & humidity: around 21–26°C with high, stable humidity and a moisture gradient, plus gentle ventilation.
Feeding and breeding
Scarlets feed mainly on leaf litter and rotting wood, with occasional protein (fish flake, dried shrimp) and constant access to calcium. They breed at a moderate pace for a display species — give them stable conditions and an undisturbed enclosure and the colony will build steadily. Our Isopod Care Guide has more on husbandry.
Frequently Asked Questions
They’re best for keepers with a little experience. As a tropical display species they want stable warmth and high humidity, so they reward consistent care in an established enclosure rather than a brand-new setup.
They will process waste, but they’re really kept for their colour. For a working clean-up crew most keepers use hardier species and keep Scarlets as a display feature.
Around 21–26°C with high, stable humidity. A deep, moisture-retaining substrate and a partly-covered enclosure keep conditions even, while gentle ventilation prevents stale air.
Add a splash of colour with captive-bred Scarlet Isopods and browse the full isopods range at Bioactive Bugs UK.