Ardentiella spec. “Blister”

Ardentiella spec. “Blister” – Striking down to the smallest detail

Ardentiella spec. “Blister” is one of the isopod species that immediately catches the eye, although it does not rely entirely on extreme colors. Instead, this species is particularly impressive due to its unusual red coloration.

The individual segments have a slightly raised appearance and in places are reminiscent of small bubbles or melted armor plates – which is exactly how the name “blister” came about.

In combination with the warm orange, red and dark tones, this creates a very special look that immediately catches the eye in the terrarium. The animals appear almost shiny, especially in damp light, which makes them even more intense.

Vibrant colors and striking surface

With increasing age, the contrasts become stronger and stronger, while adult animals show the clearest structure.

The combination of the slightly raised segments and the strong colors is particularly exciting. This makes the animals look almost like small volcanic armored rhinoceroses.

Depending on the humidity, the effect of the colors also changes slightly, making the animals appear darker or brighter. This is exactly what makes observation so interesting.

Active between wood and foliage

Ardentiella spec. “Blister” is surprisingly active and is often visible, especially after spraying. The animals then actively explore the terrarium and search foliage and wood for food.

Nevertheless, they spend a lot of time under pieces of bark, moss or white rotten wood, which is why it is particularly important to provide a structure-rich environment.

The animals look particularly impressive in natural forest set-ups, as their colors harmonize perfectly with dark foliage and damp wood.

Terrarium size and set-up

A well-ventilated isopod box or a small tropical terrarium with plenty of hiding places is suitable for keeping them. They work particularly well:

• BraPlast tins
• Isopod terrarium complete set
• Repto Terra Sky

The set-up should be as natural and angled as possible. The following have proved particularly successful:

• Fodder leaves
• white rotten wood
• Moss
• Cork pieces
• Pieces of bark
• Lime granulate

Thick layers of leaves and rotten wood are actively used and eaten at the same time.

Substrate and microclimate

For a stable setup, we recommend a mixture of:

• Forest humus
• white rotten wood
• Fodder leaves
• Lime granulate

This keeps the substrate loose and slightly moist at all times, while at the same time providing the animals with constant food and retreats.

A damp moss corner has also proved particularly effective, as the animals like to spend time there. At the same time, the terrarium should remain well ventilated.

Climate and care

For successful keeping, you should adhere to the following values:

• Temperature: 22-26 °C
• Humidity: 75-90 %

The setup should be lightly sprayed regularly to keep the microclimate stable. However, waterlogging should be avoided.

With a GLORIA fine sprayer the moisture can be distributed particularly finely and evenly.

Feeding

The animals feed mainly on organic material and need leaves and rotten wood on a permanent basis. They also like to be eaten:

• Woodlouse food
• Vegetables
• Cuttlebone

A good supply of calcium supports the development of the exoskeleton and should be permanently available.

Offspring

Under stable conditions Ardentiella spec. “Blister” reliable. The young initially hide deep in the substrate and only become more visible later.

Well-established bioactive setups significantly promote breeding, as they provide permanently stable conditions and sufficient food.

Important points on posture

• High humidity is important
• Structurally rich forest setups ideal
• Lots of foliage and wood required
• Good ventilation is crucial
• Particularly interesting surface structure

Suitable accessories for your setup

We recommend a stable and natural setup:

• Fodder foliage – most important staple food
• White rotten wood – Food and hiding place at the same time
• Forest humus – natural substrate
• Lime granules – supports the shell structure
• cuttlebone – additional source of calcium
• GLORIA fine sprayer – Controlled humidity
• Isopod terrarium complete set – ideal for tropical species

This creates a calm and at the same time very natural-looking forest setup in which the animals can fully develop their special appearance.

Conclusion

Ardentiella spec. “Blister” is one of the most exciting tropical premium Isopods around. The striking structure, warm colors and almost armored appearance make this species a real eye-catcher in the terrarium.

Anyone looking for unusual Isopods with character and a strong presence will have a lot of fun with this species.