Caring For Live Discoid Roaches
1. WHERE SHOULD I KEEP DISCOIDS?
As a non-climbing, non-flying species, discoids are easily stored in any container with smooth walls that are at least six inches high, such as a sterilite tub. Alternatively, you can use a container with textured sides and a thick strip of packing tape along the top as a climbing barrier, which will prevent escapees.
They are somewhat sensitive to overcrowding, and if they become too cramped, it may affect their growth and wellbeing. An easy way to tell if they are too densely packed is to look for short or missing antennae. They prefer dark, warm areas, as they are nocturnal creatures. We suggest keeping your roaches at a temperature range of about 80-95 degrees. If their production begins to outpace your needs, you can lower the temperature down to about 75 degrees, as this will slow their growth while still allowing them to be comfortable and healthy.
2. WHAT SHOULD I PUT IN THE TUB WITH ROACHES?
Discoids are easier to manage without substrate in their enclosure, as this can make cleaning more difficult without adding noticeable benefits. Discoids are timid creatures and will become stressed when unable to retreat from bright lights or perceived threats. Egg cartons, paper towel rolls, and other textured harborage should be placed in the container. Be generous and give your roaches plenty of spaces to hide.
3. WHAT SHOULD I FEED ROACHES?
Discoid roaches aren’t very picky eaters, but remember that your pet gets much of its nutrition from whatever their food has been eating as well. Offer your Discoids a variety of healthy food such as fruits, vegetables and grains. Dog food is not recommended due to its extremely high protein content, which can lead to health issues in your roach colony over time. Ovipost Cricket Chow or ground up chicken feed can be used in a pinch. Before you use your roaches as feeders, we also suggest gut-loading them, which is the process of feeding high quality, high nutrition food to the roaches for a span of about 24 hours.
4. HOW DO I PROVIDE WATER TO ROACHES?
There are many options for watering, but keep in mind that roaches are terrible swimmers and will drown in unfathomably small pools of water. They need a lot less hydration than humans, and can get 100% of their hydration needs from fresh fruit and veggie scraps. Alternatively, you can use a shallow dish with a sponge or paper towel in it to prevent drowning, or a small dish of water crystals. When using a water dish, make sure you clean it frequently and ensure the sides aren’t too smooth, as the roaches have difficulty climbing smooth surfaces.