Madagascar Hissing Cockroach

Madagascar Hissing Cockroach

scientific name

gromphadorrhina portentosa

size/weight/height

Length: 2 - 3.5"

adaptations/coloration

Color: mostly shiny brown; black head, prothorax and legs
Antennae: One pair
Body: larger flat oval; flatness enables it to slip into narrow spaces
Prothorax: males - 2 large bumps on prothorax; females - none
Sensory Appendages (cerci): 2 sensory; on end of abdomen

behavior

Home: outdoors; rotting logs and leaf litter; DOES NOT LIVE IN HOUSES
Colony: large
Defense: hiss when threatened
Food: scavengers; play an important role in nutrient cycle; eaten by birds and other predators - important link in the food chain

reproduction/lifespan

Lifespan: up to 18 months

diet

herbivore
Wild: fallen fruit, leaf litter
Zoo: fruit

habitat/range

forest floor - Madagascar