Porcelain Roach

Gyna lurida

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

A delicate, pale 'porcelain'-toned display roach. Live-bearing and prolific — females drop up to ~30 nymphs per litter, several times a year, with adults living about a year. Nymphs burrow in moist substrate; adults can fly, so keep the lid secure. Comfortable at 70-85°F with moderate humidity; offer moisture via a moist sponge or fresh produce rather than open water (drowning risk). Feeds on chow, fruit, and veg. Harmless. A pretty, fast-multiplying colony species.

Taxonomy

FamilyBlaberidae

GenusGyna

Native regionAfrica

TypeTerrestrial

Temperamentactive; adults fly

Size & growth

Adult size27-31 mm

Length27.00–31.00 mm

Growth ratemedium

Climate

Temperature70–85 °F

Humidity55–75%

Enclosure

Adult sizeventilated bin/tank with a secure lid

Substratemoist coco/peat; nymphs burrow; leaf litter + hides

Substrate depth2-4 inches

Water dishOptional

Feeding

Feeding modeOmnivore

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

Adult cadencecontinuous (chow + fresh produce for moisture)

Times kept: 0