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Gromphadorhina portentosa
Large wingless cockroach endemic to Madagascar. Known for hissing sound as defense. Completely different from household roaches — clean species. Kept worldwide as pets and feeders.
The Madagascar hissing cockroach (Gromphadorhina portentosa) is a large cockroach endemic to Madagascar, wingless and notable for producing a hissing sound by forcing air out. Its biology differs from household cockroaches, and being hardy and clean to keep, it is kept worldwide as a pet and feeder. Husbandry provides substrate for burrowing and a shelter, with moderate humidity. Omnivorous, it accepts vegetables, fruit, and formulated feed. Relatively slow-moving and easy to handle, it is prolific and easy to propagate. It is a beginner-friendly invertebrate enjoyable for observation and handling.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Madagascan Hissing Cockroach lives 2-5 years.
The Madagascan Hissing Cockroach grows to 50-76mm.
The ideal temperature for the Madagascan Hissing Cockroach is 22〜28℃. Ideal humidity is 50〜70%.
Origin
Madagascar
Lifespan
2-5 years
Size
50-76mm
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Gromphadorhina portentosa (Schaum, 1853)
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Gromphadorhina portentosa (Madagascar hissing cockroach). Not listed on CITES; not designated as a Japanese invasive species.
Sources: CITES Appendix (checklist.cites.org) / Ministry of the Environment: List of Designated Invasive Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Temperature
22〜28℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Vegetables, fruits, dog food
Plastic case with coconut fiber. Add hide
Apply Vaseline to upper case walls to prevent climbing
Social species. Group keeping reveals interesting behaviors
Highly reproductive. Watch for overpopulation
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Madagascan Hissing Cockroach is 22〜28℃. Recommended humidity is 50〜70%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Madagascan Hissing Cockroach is 2-5 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Madagascan Hissing Cockroach typically reaches 50-76mm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Madagascan Hissing Cockroach feeds on: Vegetables, fruits, dog food. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Madagascan Hissing Cockroach varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026