To add another species: IMHO Rhyparobia maderae are a very recommendable feeder species. They are much softer than Blaptica or Blaberus, the nymphs are quite voluminous and more elongated and thus easier to swallow than many other roaches.

Moreover this species does not hide as quickly as other roaches but runs around in upper aereas of the herp tank quite often.

Last not least they are prolific seem to taste very well. Many of my herps do prefer them over many other roach species.

One drawback: They are quick glassclimbers and if kept too moist, the colony smells (but if kept dry enough, its completely odourless).

Nauphoeta cinerea have similar properties but is smaller and has a higher pest potential.

Unexpectedly to me, also nymphs of Princisia vanwaerebecki display very similar attributes and since Princisia is almost as prolific as Blaptica, I also established a colony of these for feeder purposes. The giant adults are a nice snack for my jewelled lizards, tokays, oustalets and the like and the nymphs are a soft and readily accepted food for all smaller lizards.

Again, these are preferred over Blaptica nd Blaberus by most of my lizards (just the oustalets do love big winged Blaberus more)



Best regards



Ingo

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