Ardentiella spec. “Scarlet”

Ardentiella spec. “Scarlet” – Intense red and extraordinary

Ardentiella spec. “Scarlet” is one of the most conspicuous Isopods in terrariums, as the animals have an intense red base coloration. Adult animals in particular often show strong red and orange tones, making them immediately eye-catching in the terrarium.

In addition, many animals appear slightly transparent at the edges of the segments, which makes the colors stand out even more. This is precisely why this species is one of the most visually exciting tropical Isopods for many Isopod keepers.

Appearance and color development

The intense coloration develops more and more with increasing age, while young animals often appear somewhat paler.

With each moult, the colors intensify further, making adult animals appear particularly rich in contrast. At the same time, each animal has a slightly different pattern, which is why each Isopod looks unique.

The colors often appear particularly intense and vivid under humid conditions.

Behavior and activity

Ardentiella spec. “Scarlet” is mainly active at dusk and at night, although the animals are often visible during the day after spraying or when the humidity is high.

They then actively roam the terrarium while utilizing leaves, wood and organic material. In this way, they also contribute to a stable soil environment.

Like many tropical Isopods, they also spend a lot of time under leaves or wood, which is why a structurally rich environment is particularly important.

Terrarium size and set-up

A well-ventilated isopod box or a small terrarium with sufficient floor space is suitable for keeping them. They work particularly well:

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

The set-up should offer as many hiding places and different humidity zones as possible. The following have proved particularly successful:

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

Leaves and rotten wood in particular are actively used and eaten at the same time. This results in very natural behavior in the terrarium.

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 permanently moist at the same time. In addition, the animals constantly find food and places to retreat to.

A damp and a slightly drier corner have also proved successful, as this allows the animals to select suitable areas themselves.

Climate and care

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

• Temperature: 22-26 °C
• Humidity: 70-85 %

The substrate should remain slightly moist at all times, but should not become wet, otherwise bad spots can develop quickly.

With a GLORIA fine sprayer the humidity can be regulated particularly finely and evenly, keeping the climate stable.

Feeding

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

• Woodlouse food
• Vegetables
• Cuttlebone

A good calcium supply is particularly important so that the animals can build up their exoskeleton properly.

Offspring

Under stable conditions Ardentiella spec. “Scarlet” reliably, while the young initially hide deep in the foliage and substrate.

Well-established bioactive setups significantly promote breeding, as food and stable conditions are permanently available there.

Important points on posture

• High humidity is important
• Lots of foliage and wood required
• A good calcium supply is crucial
• Structurally rich furnishings recommended
• Ideal for bioactive terrariums

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
• Lime granules – supports the shell structure
• Forest humus – natural substrate
• cuttlebone – additional source of calcium
• GLORIA fine sprayer – Controlled humidity
• Isopod terrarium complete set – ideal for breeding groups

This creates a long-term stable setup, while at the same time allowing the animals to behave naturally.

Conclusion

Ardentiella spec. “Scarlet” is one of the most striking tropical Isopods. Its bright red coloration, active behaviour and exciting lifestyle make this species a real highlight in the terrarium.

If you are looking for intense colors and interesting bottom dwellers at the same time, you will have a lot of fun with this species.