Species: Madagascan Hissing Cockroach (Gromphadorhina portentosa)
Place of Origin: Madagascar
General information:
Hissing cockroaches are one of the largest species of roaches. They are a large flightless primarily ground dwelling species. Hissing roaches average size is 2”-3”, with females larger then males. They get their hissing sound by inhaling and exhaling air through their sphericals. Hissing cockroaches are also ovoviporous meaning they give live birth.
Housing/ lighting:
Do to there small size hissing roaches can be housed individually in a 5 gallon tank, and multiple specimens can be kept in a 10 gallon. This species is also capable of climbing glass so be sure to have a screen lid with small mesh. Make sure to provide plenty of hiding places and a caging furniture to allow climbing. They should be kept at room temperature ( 75 to 85 degrees). If you are trying to breed this species or using them as feeders housing at ( 88- 91 degrees) will increase reproductive rate, but also increase mortality. Also try to keep the enclosure fairly moist but not saturated. To much moisture can increase the growth of mold. We mist our enclosure once a day with bottled filtered water. For substrate we use a commercial brand bark and peat moss mixture. We provide around 2”-3” inches of substrate. Also make sure to change the substrate on a regular basis.
Feeding:
Hissing cockroaches are true opportunistic feeders. They are omnivores feeding on just about anything. The hissing cockroaches are probably the easiest pet to feed. At our facility their diet usually consist of: fruits, vegetables, greens, old baked goods, soaked dog/ cat food ( premium organic only), and soaked bird pellets. We feed our guy 75% greens, fruits, and vegetables, and 25% protein. Things to avoid feeding are junk foods, fried foods, high sugar foods, candy, and foods high in seasoning and salt. Make sure to feed them daily and if capable offer food at night. If housing multiple animals together make sure to offer food at all times to reduce cannibalism. If you are raising them as feeders for your reptiles. It is suggested to gut load them 48 hrs prior with a premium cricket food.
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