Giant Cave Roach

Blaberus giganteus

RoachbeginnerHarmlessCommunal OK

No venom, no sting

Pet and feeder roaches are harmless to humans — no venom, no sting, and no meaningful bite. Wash your hands after handling.

About

One of the largest cockroaches in the world — adults approach 3.3 inches. A calm, slow-breeding display species (lifespan ~2 years). Keep warm and stable (75-85°F) with deep, moist substrate, leaf litter, and rotten wood, plus vertical bark spaces it needs for the final molt. Don't let a colony overcrowd — it shortens lifespan. Feeds on roach fare plus fruit (loves orange) and fish flakes; moisture from substrate/produce. Harmless. Secure lid — they can escape.

Taxonomy

FamilyBlaberidae

GenusBlaberus

Native regionCentral & South America

TypeTerrestrial

Temperamenthardy, docile; burrows

Size & growth

Adult sizeup to ~3.3 in (84 mm)

Body length2.76–3.31 in

Growth ratemedium

Life stagesNumbered instars

Climate

Temperature75–85°F

Humidity50–70%

Enclosure

Adult sizeventilated bin/tank with a secure lid

Substratedeep, moist coco/peat with leaf litter + rotten wood; vertical bark for molting

Substrate depth3-5 inches

Water dishOptional

Feeding

Feeding modeOmnivore

Dietomnivore — roach chow/dry dog food, fruit, veg, occasional protein

Food & schedulecontinuous (chow + fresh produce for moisture)

Times kept: 0