Discoid roaches are consistently ranked high by most pet owners who feed their reptilian and amphibian pets with feeder insects. 

Knowing the basics about these incredible creatures can be a game changer if you have a bearded dragon.

In this detailed guide by TopFlight Dubia, we will learn about discoid roaches, why they are incredible feeder insects for pets, and how best to take care of them so your pets can enjoy their meals fully.

What Are Discoid Roaches?

Discoid roaches or tropical discoid cockroaches (Blaberus discoidalis) are part of a group of cockroaches native to Central and South America. 

Unlike regular household cockroaches, these roaches are raised and produced in biosecure environments to act as feeder insects. Because of their oval-shaped wings and subtlety, they are perfect food for reptiles, amphibians, and some exotic bird species.

They are not invasive and cannot crawl on smooth structures; thus, care for them becomes relatively easy. 

Discoid Roaches - Are They Really Ideal For Pets?

Reptile pet owners are always looking for feeder insects that are healthy, easy to manage and harmless. They check all these boxes:

01. Nutritional Value 

Contains protein, low fat, and other nutrients necessary for the body, such as calcium and phosphorus. 

This makes them suitable for caring for the health of some reptiles, including bearded dragons and house geckos.

02. Safe For Pets

Thus, unlike other feeder insects, they have a softer exoskeleton, which minimizes the digestion problem in pets. 

They are odorless and hypoallergenic, meaning using them will not harm you, your pets, or any other living thing.

03. Variety In Diet

They are also known to feed on almost anything, so you can gut-load them and feed your pets with healthy foods.

Fun Facts About Discoid Roaches

• They can be fed to bearded dragons as they can help reduce incidences of nutritionally related illnesses.

• They should be fed with quality fruits and vegetables for at least 24 hours before being given to bearded dragons. This process, known as gut-loading, is used to improve the nutritional content of these roaches.

How To Take Care?

These roaches are easy to care for, even for first-time pet owners. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

01. Housing Setup

Choose a plastic bin and a glass tank with a tight cover.  

Place egg cartons and cardboard tubes inside because these are needed for hides and surfaces.  

Avoiding any moisture in the enclosure is essential because mold spores may begin to grow.

02. Temperature & Humidity 

Keep a temperature of between 85°F and 95°F.

Relative humidity should be between 50 and 60%. If necessary, use a feeding bowl or other dishes for water and ensure that the bottom of the enclosure is damp.  

03. Food & Water  

These include fresh fruits and vegetables and dry foods such as oats and kibbled dog foods.  

For water, put it in a shallow dish or ensure they feed on foods with a high water content, such as cucumbers or oranges.

04. Cleaning The Enclosure  

Discard uneaten food regularly to avoid cases of mold and bacteria building up.  

The container must be cleaned ideally once every two weeks. 

05. Breeding Process  

They are best cared for, especially by those who wish to breed them. Females produce egg cases called oothecae, which, upon hatching, give way to nymphs. 

A well-managed colony can offer a constant source of fresh feeder insects for your pet reptiles.

Advantages Of Using Discoid Roaches Over Other Feeders

They outshine many other feeder insects in several ways:  

• Longer Lifespan: They outlive crickets and are not often replaced.  

• No Noise: These roaches bear no resemblance to crickets in that they do not undergo a chirping process.  

• Non-Climbing: They cannot climb a smooth surface, making them easy to handle.  

• Odor-Free: They do not produce such a foul odour even when many assemble in a colony.  

These advantages make them convenient for pet owners who wish to feed their bearded dragon's friend a reliable and healthy diet.

Essential Measures To Take Care Of

01. Maintaining Temperature

One of the biggest challenges is maintaining the temperature in the enclosure. A thermostat should regulate one or many heating devices to avoid extreme temperatures.

02. Managing Overpopulation  

Sometimes, your colony may have many roaches, which may be counterproductive if you are not breeding them. Permanently eliminate the extras daily and give them to your pets.

03. Mold & Pests  

If food gets left uneaten, it may develop mold or attract pests such as mites. Problems such as these can be avoided through daily proper section maintenance. 

Discoid Roaches Are a Pet Owner’s Best Friend

Discoid roaches are not just feeder insects but meaty, healthy and available live food that enhances the well-being of your pets. Their low maintenance needs and high protein content also put them well above traditional insect feeders like the crickets. 

Whether you own a bearded dragon or some other pet reptile, your pet will benefit from including these roaches in its diet. 

TopFlight Dubia has equally nutritious food for your pets - Dubia roaches. 

Explore the collection, and your pet will always love you. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)