Questions About Dubia Roches

What Makes Dubia Roaches Special?

Dubia roaches (scientifically known as Blaptica Dubia) are most well known around the world as feeder insects for the exotic pet industry. They are high in protein and low in fat, which helps ensure that pets are getting the nutrients that they need to stay healthy. They are also very moisturous, which helps with animal’s hydration.

They typically range in sizes between an eighth of an inch to over two inches depending on their age which means that they can be enjoyed by pets of all sizes. Dubia roaches have another benefit that isn’t consistent with many other insects in that they can be consumed during the entire span of their year and a half to two year lifespan. They may be slightly more expensive than typical feeder insects, but they are worth it for the nutritional value they provide.

What Types of Exotic Pets Eat Dubia Roaches?

They are what are considered good “feeder insects” and provide loads of nutrition for a wide variety of different types of animals.

Reptiles:

- Lizards: Many lizard species, including bearded dragons, leopard geckos, crested geckos, and chameleons, readily consume Dubia roaches.
- Snakes: Some snake species, particularly those that eat lizards or insects, may also be fed Dubia roaches

Amphibians:

- Frogs: Certain frog species, especially tree frogs and larger poison dart frogs, are known to eat Dubia roaches.
- Salamanders: Some salamander species, particularly those that are insectivorous, may also be fed Dubia roaches.

Arachnids:

- Tarantulas: Dubia roaches are a common food source for tarantulas and other large spiders.

Other:

- Hedgehogs: Some owners feed Dubia roaches to their pet hedgehogs.
- Hatchlings: Mini Dubia roaches are often fed to very small animals like anoles, geckos, and chameleons.
- Poultry: Chickens may also consume Dubia roaches, though they are not as common of a food source for them as they are for other animals.

What Are the Temperature and Humidity Requirements for Dubia Roach Colonies?

Dubia roaches thrive in temperatures between 80°F to 95°F (27°C to 35°C) and require humidity levels of around 40% to 60%. Maintaining these conditions is crucial for the health of your colony.

Do Dubia Raoches Bite?

No. Unlike other feeder insects that are known to be able to bite and become potentially harmful to your pet (ex: crickets), dubia roaches are perfectly harmless.

How do I house/store my Dubia Roaches?

- They will need a plastic tub with a ventilated lid, egg flats to climb and hide in, a source of food, and a source of water and kept at room temp or slightly warmer (unless you are trying to breed them, you don't need to worry about a heating pad or other heating source).
- When providing them with a water source, you will need to consider that they can drown in plain water, this is why water crystals are the best thing you can get for them as they will be able to hydrate with no risk of drowning.
- When it comes to food, the best thing to use is dubia diet for the bulk of their meals, you can also use vegetables that are safe for your reptile such as carrots, sweet potato, butternut, spaghetti or acorn squash, and more!

How do I Feed Dubia Roaches to Exotic Pets?

- First, purchase live Dubia roaches from a reputable supplier. Make sure they are the appropriate size for your pet and are gut-loaded with nutritious food.
- Place the Dubia roaches in a separate feeding container or a dish inside your pet’s enclosure. This will prevent them from escaping and make it easier for your pet to catch and eat them.
- Monitor your pet as they hunt and eat the Dubia roaches. Some pets may need help locating and catching roaches, especially if they are small and not highly active.
- Remove any uneaten Dubia roaches after a few hours to prevent them from hiding in your pet’s enclosure and potentially causing harm.

Tip: You can dust the Dubia roaches with calcium or other supplements before feeding them to your pet to ensure they are getting all the necessary nutrients.