Blaptica dubia, commonly known as Dubia roaches, are sexually dimorphic creatures. Their male and female counterparts complement each other in physical form, feeding habits, and sexuality. 

These species of tropical cockroaches are complex creatures. They make the ideal food for many reptilian and amphibian pets like geckos and bearded dragons. 

Knowing the difference between the sexes will help many pet owners to care for their pets most productively. 

TopFlight Dubia introduces this detailed guide for a caring pet lover like yourself. 

The Physical Distinction Between Male & Female Dubia Roaches

Here is the list of differences between male and female roaches: 

01. Size and Body Shape

Males are noticeably smaller than females in general. It ranges from 1 ½ to 2 inches in length. Their bodies are smoother and beneficial for extreme mobility, especially for finding partners for mating or dodging predators.

Female Dubia roaches are relatively bigger; some are about 2 ½ inches long. Their larger and more muscular bodies help nurture eggs. 

02. Wings & Flight Ability

Wings are one of the primary differences between male and female Dubia roaches, and even this varies depending on the age of Dubia. 

The male roaches possess fully developed wings that extend approximately over the body length. Despite this, they could be better fliers and normally walk or fly only a short distance if threatened.

Female have wings that do not even completely cover half the length of their body. They cannot fly, and like many prehistoric animals, they have short wings that they adapt to use for balance as they move.

03. Color & Markings

Male and female Dubia roaches are almost the same color, usually reddish-brown or blackish-brown. However, the males are typically a little more colorful than the females.

Life Cycle: Male Vs. Female Dubia Roaches

Both male and female roaches go through the general stage of growth and development as eggs and nymphs before becoming adult specimens. However, there is a distinction between development and maturing.

Males attain maturity faster. They will only start demonstrating their courtship display and seeking females at 8 months of age. 

Female roaches, on the other hand, can reproduce soon after maturing; in fact, they are sexually mature around 9 – 10 months. 

Behavior: Feeding Habits & Social Interaction

There are some differences regarding the sexual state of the Dubia roaches' feeding behavior; however, both males and females are omnivorous, which means they are willing to consume almost all types of organic matter: fruit and vegetables, grains, and decomposing plant matter.

01. Feeding Behavior

About the type of diet, the diet of both male and female roaches remains almost the same. Nevertheless, females may need more food when breeding since they must lay eggs. 

02. Social Behavior

The social behavior is also friendly, especially towards the opposite sex, within a group. However, during periods of sexual activity, a male is observed to be more forceful in his search for a mate. 

They may be aggressive as they chase a female, flap wings, or even fight other males to attract the opposite sex.

Reproduction & Breeding

The primary anatomical difference between the male and female is the reproductive function. Although males are most directly involved in the process of mating, it is the female that lays eggs.

After a female has been attracted, the male will copulate, which is an action of transferring sperm.

The female can produce several oothecae throughout her lifetime; one ootheca may contain twenty to thirty babies. 

Conclusion: The Debate Of Sexes

Now that you know the difference between the sexes of the roaches, it’s clear that there is no battle between them. However, knowing the difference will help any pet owner. 

Knowing the distinctions between male and female Dubia roaches is necessary to organize the correct feeding of a pet and get the maximum amount of nourishment. Whether you are a breeder or just offer your pet a decent diet, understanding the features of each sex will assist with nurturing and feeding. 

Knowing the differences in the life cycle, physical appearance, and feeding behavior enables anyone to have healthy, well-fed Dubia that can continuously be fed to reptilian and amphibian pets. 

TopFlight Dubia offers the best quality roaches with multiple varieties to cater to the needs of various pet lovers. Explore the collection and make your bearded dragon happy. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)