How to Care for Dubia Roaches
What are Dubia Roaches?
Dubia roaches, scientifically recognized as Blaptica dubia, are medium-sized cockroaches indigenous to Central and South America. They are commonly referred to by several names, including orange-spotted roaches, Guyana spotted roaches, and Argentinian wood roaches, highlighting their distinctive appearance and geographical origins.
These insects have garnered significant popularity within the exotic pet care industry, particularly among enthusiasts and professionals caring for omnivorous and insectivorous reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and other exotic pets. Dubia roaches are esteemed for several reasons that make them an optimal choice in the dietary management of such pets.
Firstly, they are considered nutritionally balanced, offering a comprehensive profile of essential nutrients vital for the health and wellbeing of various exotic pets. Their ease of digestion is another critical factor, making them a preferable option for the dietary requirements of sensitive or specific pet species. Furthermore, their straightforward maintenance requirements ensure that they can be kept and bred with minimal effort, reducing the complexities associated with other feeder insects.
Additionally, Dubia roaches present a minimal risk of parasite transmission as they are mechanical carriers only, a common concern with live feed options, thereby ensuring a safer dietary choice for exotic pets. Their availability in diverse sizes enables pet owners and caregivers to tailor the feeding regime according to the specific needs and life stages of their pets.
Overview of Parental Care in the Animal Kingdom
Parental care encompasses a range of behaviors exhibited by parents that enhance the survivability of their offspring. This phenomenon is observed across most animal phyla, with notable examples in various species of insects, crustaceans, and vertebrates. The nature and extent of parental care vary widely, encompassing efforts to shield offspring from harsh environmental conditions, provide access to otherwise scarce resources, and reduce the likelihood of predation on eggs or young. This diversity in parental strategies has been extensively documented and analyzed (Clutton-Brock & Scott, 1991; Glazier, 2002).
Parental care can be broadly categorized into three main types: (a) behaviors aimed at directly protecting offspring from potential threats, (b) measures to secure essential resources for the offspring's survival, and (c) actions that support the feeding of the offspring (Glazier, 2002).
In the realm of insects, parental care manifests in a spectrum of behaviors, from the application of protective coatings over eggs to active feeding and protection of the young, and even the establishment of eusocial communities. Such practices are prevalent across a variety of insect orders, with the most advanced forms of parental care observed in Hemiptera, Coleoptera, Thysanoptera, Embiidina, Hymenoptera, and Isoptera.
Cockroaches, in particular, exhibit parental care to varying degrees. At the most basic level, even the most primitive species demonstrate some form of care through the use of oothecae (egg cases) to safeguard developing young. While most available data on cockroach parental care derive from observational field notes, with a significant focus on the Cryptocercidae family (Bell et al., 2007; Seelinger & Sellinger, 1983; Nalepa, 1987, 1988; Park & Choe, 2003), detailed information on the parental behaviors of Blaptica dubia remains scarce.
Guidelines for Housing Dubia Roaches
To create an optimal living environment for Dubia roaches, Using the appropriate enclosure is crucial. A container with smooth walls is required to prevent the roaches from climbing out, as they are capable of navigating rougher textures. There is no minimum size of container required to raise dubia roaches. The size required will depend on how many you want to keep. People tend to keep them anywhere from 10 gallon to 70 gallon containers. We at Dubi Deli keep them in 50 gallon containers. Dubia roaches exhibit less climbing proficiency compared to other species, ensuring the containment is secure remains paramount.
Glass aquariums are highly effective due to their smooth surfaces and visibility, but not recommended unless you cover the glass as they prefer to be in the dark. Ventilated smooth plastic tubs are one of the best options. It is vital to choose a container that impedes their ability to climb and escape. Baby dubia are the best climbers due to their size and weight and can given climb smooth containers if the inside sides are dirty or moist. If the babies can't escape, the larger dubia will not be able to escape either.
For securing the enclosure, a cover is essential (adult males can "hop" out)—not only to deter escapes but also to maintain an appropriate microclimate within, encompassing heat and humidity levels conducive to the roaches' well-being. Mesh terrarium covers are ideal for glass aquariums, allowing for sufficient airflow while containing the inhabitants. However, it is highly recommended to cover the mesh screen with a towel or other breathable material to allow ventilation while keeping in the heat. Sometimes it is best to only cover half of the mesh screen. Your setup will depend on your environment. If you are having condensation or losing too much heat, will need more or less ventilation respectively. When using plastic tubs, modifying the lid by drilling holes or affixing a section of fine mesh over a larger opening can ensure adequate ventilation. It is best to have ventilation on the towards the sides to help prevent water condensation.
Interior arrangement is another critical aspect. Cardboard egg flats are recommended to furnish the enclosure, providing the Dubia roaches with an environment to climb and conceal themselves, thereby optimizing the use of space. For enhanced hygiene and ease of maintenance, positioning these flats vertically will allow waste products to accumulate at the bottom of the enclosure, simplifying cleaning processes. Care should be taken to ensure that the height of the egg flats does not facilitate escape.
Lastly, it's worth noting that the use of substrate within the enclosure is not necessary for the maintenance of Dubia roaches. This simplification aids in the cleanliness and overall management of the habitat, making it a practical choice for those cultivating Dubia roaches either as feeder insects or for other purposes."
Optimal Heat and Humidity Conditions for Dubia Roaches
To ensure the health and proliferation of Dubia roaches, maintaining an environment with the appropriate heat and humidity is essential. While these roaches are capable of surviving at standard room temperatures, they thrive optimally when the temperature is maintained between 80-85°F (26.7-29.4°C) and the relative humidity is kept at around 50%. These conditions simulate their natural habitat and promote their growth and reproduction. It is important to not let the humidity get to high due to mold issues.
Development time of each instar in different temperature. (mean (SD) n)
credit: Table comes from Biology of Blatica Dubia by Hao Wu, August 3, 2013
We at Dubi Deli prefer the range of 83-85F for keeping dubia roaches. This is a nice temperature that will be more forgiving to neglect and issues. Higher heat can cause issues with high humidity. There are many factors that are beyond this blog. While you can keep them at higher temperatures to get faster breeding, more care and attention will be required.
To achieve these specific temperature requirements, caretakers commonly utilize ceramic heat emitters (CHEs) or under-tank heaters (UTHs). Ceramic heat emitters are designed to be positioned above the enclosure, emitting heat downwards. However, it is crucial to note that CHEs are typically unsuitable for use with plastic tub enclosures due to the risk of melting or damage. Alternatively, under-tank heaters are affixed to the side of the enclosure, providing a direct heat source without the risk associated with overhead heating elements. Note that even UTH usually are not meant for plastic. Anytime you use a heat source with plastic will create a potential fire hazard. These hazards are one reason we don’t recommend home breeding systems using plastic enclosures. Glass enclosures are the safest option. If you want to use plastic, heating the whole room via HVAC systems is optimal. Space heaters are dangerous and should not be used and left unattended. Read all warnings and information on the heat source you choose. They will specify the usage of their product.
Any heating method should be regulated by a thermostat to prevent temperature fluctuations that could lead to overheating, which poses a significant risk to the wellbeing of the Dubia roaches (over temperature) and your safety (fire). The thermostat ensures the enclosure remains within the ideal temperature range without the danger of excessively high temperatures that could harm the roaches and you!
Our recommendiation would be to use heat tape and pay attention to the following:
Avoid Power While Rolled or Overlapping: Never apply power to a heating element that is rolled up, even slightly, or overlapping another element. This is crucial to prevent immediate or future failures due to unsafe heat buildup in contact areas.
Surface Restrictions: Do not use heating elements on carpets or similar surfaces, even with a thermostat. Ensure there is always an air gap of at least 1/8 inch on one side of the element to prevent unsafe heat buildup and premature product failure. Avoid placing the element under layers of material thicker than 1/2 inch, including cage substrates.
Thermostat Regulation: Always regulate heating elements with a thermostat. Never use elements unregulated or plugged directly into a power source. Place the thermostat probe at the hottest area of the element, such as under a tub or enclosure, whenever possible.
Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect the heating element to ensure no part exceeds 105°F and that the element lies flat and smooth. Pay special attention to areas under objects where heat can build up, such as beneath tubs in reptile racks or under caging and seed flats.
Consistent Element Specifications: Do not mix different sizes or wattages of heating elements on a single thermostat or thermostat zone. This can result in inconsistent and potentially dangerous conditions for you and your animals.
Grounding Metal Surfaces: When using an element in contact with a metal surface, ensure the metal is grounded to avoid shock hazards and possible induced voltage. If fastening the element with metallic (aluminum) tape, do not overlap any electrical areas, such as black conductive bars or copper buss bars.
Keep in mind that thermostats can fail! It is also recommended to place the proper fast blow fuse inline that will blow when too much current is drawn. Measure the current draw (or compute) the proper size fuse for your setup.
It is recommended to consult with a professional when using heat sources as there are a lot of variables and this blog is only meant to give you a starting point.
Regarding humidity, Dubia roaches generally do not require additional humidification beyond what is naturally provided by their environment. The evaporation of water from their food and water sources typically suffices to maintain the necessary humidity levels. However, for precise monitoring and adjustment, the installation of a digital probe thermometer/hygrometer within the enclosure is recommended. This device allows for accurate readings of both temperature and humidity, enabling adjustments as needed to ensure the environment remains conducive to the roaches' health and productivity.
Nutritional Management and Hydration Techniques for Dubia Roaches
The dietary regimen provided to Dubia roaches directly influences the nutritional quality they offer as feeders to exotic pets. It is imperative to prioritize high-quality nutrition to ensure that the roaches are a beneficial dietary component for your pets.
Commercially available feeds, commonly referred to as Roach Chow, are formulated to cater to the nutritional needs of Dubia roaches, ensuring they receive a balanced diet. Opting for such specialized products is advantageous, as they are designed to fulfill the roaches' dietary requirements comprehensively. To supplement these diets, incorporating fresh organic vegetables, such as dark leafy greens, sweet potatoes, and squash, can enhance the nutritional value of the roaches by providing additional vitamins and moisture. It is crucial to wash all produce thoroughly prior to introduction to the roaches to remove any residues or contaminants. However, with the right roach chow, adding any extra food or nutrients is unnecessary. We at Dubi Deli have created a roach chow we have been using for over 10 years for all our dubia roaches.
It is advisable to avoid offering high-protein foods, including dog, cat, and fish foods, to Dubia roaches. These roaches have a propensity to convert excess protein intake into uric acid, which, when ingested by reptiles, can be detrimental to their health.
For hydration, polymer-based water crystals, DubiDrops, are recommended. These crystals provide a safe and efficient means for roaches to access water without the risk of drowning, which is a significant concern with traditional water dishes. Alternatively, for caretakers utilizing a powdered diet, mixing the powder with water to create a paste presents a viable method for simultaneously feeding and hydrating the roaches.
Maintaining a clean environment is essential for the health of the roach colony. It is important to diligently remove any moldy or spoiled food from the enclosure, as mold poses a lethal threat to the roaches. Regular inspection and prompt removal of contaminated food will help prevent the spread of mold and ensure the colony remains healthy and productive. This is mitigated by using dry food and having DubiDrops for your water supply.
Maintaining Hygiene in Your Dubia Roach Enclosure
Ensuring the cleanliness of your Dubia roach enclosure is paramount for the health and well-being of the colony. Accumulation of frass (droppings), remnants of vegetables, and exuviae (shed exoskeletons) can create an environment conducive to the proliferation of harmful bacteria. It is recommended to conduct a thorough cleaning and disinfection of the enclosure on a monthly basis to mitigate these risks.
To facilitate an efficient cleaning process, it is advisable to maintain a secondary enclosure. Every month, transfer the roaches to the secondary enclosure and clean out the primary enclosure. The secondary encloser now becomes the primary enclosure. During the transfer, carefully sift through the frass to ensure no roaches remain hidden, transferring any found to the secondary enclosure. Cleaning the enclosure monthly will also allow you to cull out cleaning beetles that can get out of control and eat molted dubia roaches.
Egg Flats should be monitored for signs of excessive wear, such as significant chewing, staining, or structural degradation. Replacing these flats when these conditions are observed is essential to maintain the enclosure's cleanliness and structural integrity.
For the cleaning process, if circumstances allow, move the enclosure outdoors to ensure adequate ventilation, which is crucial for safety when using cleaning solutions. Dispose of the frass and any other waste by emptying it into a garbage receptacle or compost pile, as appropriate. Proceed to rinse the enclosure thoroughly, removing any residual waste and debris.
After rinsing, apply an animal-safe disinfectant, such as chlorhexidine or F-10SC, following the manufacturer’s instructions for dilution and application. These disinfectants are chosen for their efficacy and safety in environments housing animals. Allow the enclosure to dry completely before reintroducing the roaches and egg flats. The cleaned enclosure now serves as the secondary enclosure for the next scheduled cleaning, ensuring a continuous cycle of clean habitats for your Dubia roach colony.
Health Advisory: Allergic Sensitivities to Dubia Roaches
It has been observed that individuals frequently engaged in the handling or breeding of Dubia roaches, particularly on a substantial scale, may develop allergic reactions to both the roaches and their frass (droppings). This condition appears to be more prevalent among those involved in extensive breeding operations rather than individuals who maintain a smaller number of roaches.
To mitigate the risk of developing an allergy to Dubia roaches, it is recommended to undertake handling and maintenance activities within a well-ventilated area. The use of protective gloves is also advised to minimize direct contact with the roaches and their byproducts. Implementing these precautions can significantly reduce the likelihood of allergic sensitization and ensure a safer interaction with Dubia roaches for those involved in their care and breeding.
Furthermore, maintaining rigorous hygiene practices within the roach enclosures and the surrounding environment plays a critical role in preventing the accumulation of allergens. Regular cleaning and disposal of frass, coupled with the strategic placement of enclosures in areas that facilitate air circulation, are essential measures to uphold both human and roach health.
References and Citations:
Clutton-Brock, T. H., and D. Scott. 1991. The evolution of parental care. Monographs in behavior and ecology. Princeton University Press, Princeton, New Jersey.
Glazier. 2002. Parental Care. Encyclopedia of Evolution. Oxford University Press.
Bell, W. J., L. M. Roth, and C. A. Nalepa. 2007. Cockroaches: ecology, behavior, and natural history. JHU Press. Baltimore, Maryland.
Seelinger, G., and U. Sellinger. 1983. On the social organisation, alarm and fighting in the primitive cockroach Cryptocercus punctulatus Scudder. Zeitschrift für Tierpsychologie. 61: 315–333.
Nalepa, C. A. 1987. Life history studies of the woodroach Cryptocercus punctulatus scudder and their implications for the evolution of termite eusociality. PhD thesis. North Carolina State University .
Nalepa, C. A. 1988. Cost of parental care in the woodroach Cryptocercus punctulatus Scudder (Dictyoptera: Cryptocercidae). Behav. Ecol. and Sociobiol. 23: 135–140.
Park, Y., and J. Choe. 2003. Effects of parental care on offspring growth in the Korean wood- feeding cockroach, Cryptocercus kyebangensis. J. Ethology. 21: 71–77.
Hao Wu. Biology of Blaptica dubia, Auburn University