Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches

Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches
Gromphadorrhina portentosa

As the name implies, these cockroaches are not native to California, but are from the African island of Madagascar. Unlike most species of cockroaches, these do not have wings. They have a thick armor of keratin to protect themselves and squeeze into tight spaces. A popular pet species that is used quite often in movies and television as a stand-in for more winged cockroaches, they are a very gentle ambassador.

Males and females are distinct, the males have “horns” on top of their carapace. As their name implies, they will hiss! The hissing comes from the cockroaches expelling air through tiny breathing holes on their backs called spiracles. The more dominant the male, the more noise he will make in his colony.

Madagascar Hissing Cockroaches are decomposers, a critical component off the ecosystem. They eat decomposing organic matter, break down forest debris and provide food for other animals in the environment. 

Our resident Madagascar Hissing Cockroach colony was started in 2013 and has been self-sustaining ever since! Over the years we have welcomed new cockroaches from colonies in other facilities as well. Our latest addition came in 2021 when we took in a small group from the Micke Grove Zoo. Our happy little cockroach family has continued to expand, and this genetic diversity will improve their health.