Honduran Cockroach Care Sheet

Honduran cockroaches (Blaberus sp. honduras) are a large and colorful species of roaches that are native to Central America. They are popular among hobbyists and breeders for their striking appearance, easy care, and fast reproduction. Honduran cockroaches can grow up to 3 inches in length and have a lifespan of about 2 years.

Housing

Honduran cockroaches can be housed in a plastic or glass container with a secure lid and plenty of ventilation. The size of the container depends on the number of roaches you have, but a general rule of thumb is to provide at least 2 square inches of floor space per adult roach. You can use a substrate of coconut fiber, peat moss, or potting soil to cover the bottom of the container and provide some moisture and hiding places for the roaches. You can also add some egg cartons, cardboard tubes, or pieces of bark to create more vertical space and shelter for the roaches.

Temperature and Humidity

Honduran cockroaches prefer warm and humid conditions, similar to their natural habitat. The ideal temperature range for them is between 75 and 85°F, and the ideal humidity level is between 60 and 80%. You can use a heat mat, a heat lamp, or an incandescent bulb to provide some supplemental heat if needed, but make sure to monitor the temperature and avoid overheating the roaches. You can also mist the substrate and the sides of the container lightly every few days to maintain the humidity level, but avoid creating stagnant water or mold.

Diet

Honduran cockroaches are omnivorous and will eat a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, cereals, nuts, seeds, dog food, fish food, and even meat. You can offer them a balanced diet of fresh and dry foods every other day, and remove any uneaten food after 24 hours to prevent spoilage. You can also supplement their diet with calcium powder or cuttlebone to ensure they get enough minerals for their exoskeletons. For water, you can use a shallow dish with cotton balls, water crystals, or moist paper towels to prevent drowning.

Breeding

Honduran cockroaches are live-bearers, meaning they do not lay eggs but give birth to live nymphs. The females can produce up to 30 nymphs per litter, and can have several litters throughout their lifetime. The gestation period is about 2 to 3 months, and the nymphs take about 4 to 6 months to reach adulthood. The nymphs are born white, but gradually develop their adult coloration as they molt. You can separate the nymphs from the adults if you want to control the population growth, or you can leave them together and let nature take its course.

Conclusion

Honduran cockroaches are a fascinating and rewarding species to keep and breed. They are relatively easy to care for, as long as you provide them with a suitable environment, a varied diet, and enough space. They are also a great source of food for reptiles, amphibians, and other insectivorous pets, as they are nutritious and readily available. If you are looking for a new and exciting addition to your invertebrate collection, Honduran cockroaches might be the perfect choice for you.