Ergaula pilosa (Black Beetle Mimic Roach)

Ergaula pilosa

(Black Beetle Mimic Roach)

Ergaula pilosa (the Black Beetle Mimic Roach) is a fraudulent Blattodean that ranges across Malaysia, Borneo, and Indonesia. The females of this species are thought to mimic carrion beetles at adulthood, even emitting similar defensive odors. Nymphs and adult females are both habitual burrowers. Mature males are much more surface-active and enjoy climbing. All life stages exhibit a velvety coating of setae (hair-like bristles). They're scientific name, "pilosa", literally translates to "hairy" in Latin!

Adult Size - Male (35 mm), Female (37 mm)

Climbing Ability - Adult males can climb

Flying Ability - None

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Enclosure

E.pilosa aren't particularly large or crowding sensitive, but they are extremely prolific, so their enclosure should have some space.

Ventilation level - Moderate

Hides - Not Necessary

Barrier/Secure Lid - Necessary

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Substrate

E.pilosa 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 - 1/2 moist & 1/2 dry

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Food

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

Type - Proteinaceous pet foods, fruits, vegetables

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Temperature

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

Range - 70 F to 85 F