Story perspectives

Isopod Craze: Endangered Species at Risk from Collectors

2/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

At a pet expo in White Plains, N.Y., collectors showed interest in Cuban Spiky isopods priced at $350 each.
The Cuban Spiky isopods are critically endangered and occur only in a specific Cuban nature reserve.
Researchers warn that the rising popularity of isopods, often compared to Pokémon, could threaten vulnerable species because of an unregulated market.
Thousands of enthusiasts are breeding various isopod types, raising alarms about biodiversity.

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Story summary

At a pet expo in White Plains, N.Y., collectors showed interest in Cuban Spiky isopods priced at $350 each.
The Cuban Spiky isopods are critically endangered and occur only in a specific Cuban nature reserve.
Researchers warn that the rising popularity of isopods, often compared to Pokémon, could threaten vulnerable species because of an unregulated market.
Thousands of enthusiasts are breeding various isopod types, raising alarms about biodiversity.