Blaberus craniifer (Death's Head Roach)

Blaberus craniifer

(Death's Head Roach)

"UCR" strain

It is Halloween all year long with the Death's Head Roach. Its species name, "craniifer", translates to "cranium-bearing", and that's exactly what the adult's pronotum displays - a spooky jack-o'-lantern face! Although a brown-winged form does exist, specimens with black wings are undoubtedly more haunting. Introduced populations of Blaberus craniifer range into Southern Florida, making this the largest cockroach in North America.

Adult Size - 

"UCR" Male (55 mm), Female (60 mm)

"Orin" Male (53 mm), Female (57 mm)

"Euro" Male (56 mm), Female (62 mm)

Climbing Ability - None

Flying Ability - None

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Enclosure

B.craniifer are large, so their enclosure should have some space.

Ventilation level - Moderate

Hides - Necessary

Barrier/Secure Lid - Not Necessary

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Substrate

B.craniifer aren't picky about their substrate as long as it holds moisture well, isn't abrasive, and is deep enough to burrow in.

Type - Not picky

Moisture level - Moderate

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Food

B.craniifer aren't picky about their food and can be fed an average roach diet.

Type - Fruits, proteinaceous pet foods, vegetables

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Temperature

B.craniifer can be kept into the low 70s, but grows and breeds fastest at warmer temperatures.

Range - 70 F to 85 F