Jelly Bean and Rubber Ducky Isopods Gain Popularity as Exotic Pets
Jelly bean isopods, a rare color variety originating from Saint Lucia, and rubber ducky isopods from Thailand are emerging as popular pets among crustacean enthusiasts. Jelly beans come in various hues like orange and gold, while rubber duckies feature yellow markings resembling a duck. These creatures are sold for approximately $10 each on platforms like MorphMarket, with new breeds such as the 'blonde rubber ducky' emerging from selective breeding. Isopods, which predate dinosaurs, include over 10,000 species ranging from 0.3 millimeters to 20 inches in length. They are crustaceans, not insects, and possess unique biological traits, such as copper-based blood and the ability to excrete waste as ammonia gas. A notable deep-sea giant isopod in Japan survived without eating for five years, highlighting their resilience.
