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

other

not considered pests

oregon zoo exhibit

Insect zoo

FAQ

Do they carry diseases?
No. Since they live away from people, they don't pick up diseases that cockroaches usually get from people.

Are they pests?
No. They are only found on Madagascar and live in large groups in decaying wood on the forest floor. They wouldn't come inside houses even if they had the chance. Less than 1% of all cockroach species are household pests. Most are beneficial.

How do they hiss?
They have small holes (spiracles) for breathing along their backs. If they force air out quickly, it makes a hissing sound similar to that of snakes. They hiss when they feel threatened as a defense against predators.