Madagascar Hissing Cockroach

Madagascar Hissing Cockroach
(Gromphadorhina portentosa)
by Jon Fouskaris


ADULT MALE & FEMALE
Specimens provided by Jon Fouskaris.
Photo taken by Jon Fouskaris.
These large, wingless cockroaches can produce a loud hissing sound to scare away predators. In my opinion, these are the best "pet" cockroach. They are very interesting, common, and cheap additions to any collection, as well as great food items for large tarantulas, and reptiles. They can be raised in large numbers in a matter of months, yet are not a pest species. They have been used as "scary" and "creepy" effects in movies for many years as well. The photo to the left compares two adult cockroaches. Notice the size difference between the male (on the left) and the female (on the right).

Range Moist forests of Madagascar.
Habitat Found under rotting wood.
Type Terrestial.
Diet Fruits and vegetables such as red leaf lettuce, apples, carrots, etc.
Full Grown Size 3 to 4 inches.
Growth Fast speed.
Lifespan Medium.
Temperature 80 to 95 degrees F.
Humidity High. Two mistings per week.
Temperament Docile.
Housing 2 1/2 to 15-gallon tank depending on the number of cockroaches. Cockroaches can live communally. Floor space is more important than height.
Substrate 2 inches of potting soil with bark chips kept moist. Egg cartons, paper towel rolls, and toilet paper rolls are very good additions for Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches. Note that paper towel, and toilet paper rolls should be taken out of the tank while misting to avoid fungus growth.
Other Names Madagscar Giant Hissing Cockroach.