Other Inverts For Sale (5)

The original "green banana roach," Panchlora nivea stands out as one of the most successful and adaptable species in the exotic roach hobby. Their soft, pale green coloration and excellent breeding productivity have made them a staple for both display colonies and as nutritious feeders for larger reptiles and amphibians. While perhaps not as brilliantly colored as their cousin P. magnifica, these hardy roaches offer beginners an accessible entry into keeping green roaches with their forgiving care requirements and reliable reproduction. A Glimpse Origin: Cuba, Caribbean, and now pantropical Scientific Name: Panchlora nivea Difficulty Level: Low Adult Size: 22-25mm (0.9-1 inch) Rarity: Common in hobby Temperature: 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C) Humidity: 65% to 75% Favorite Foods: Fruits, vegetables, grains Supplements: Fish flakes, bee pollen, oats Overview Cuban Cockroaches have a fascinating history, having spread from their Caribbean origins to tropical regions worldwide through human commerce - particularly the banana trade, hence their nickname. Adults display a pleasant lime to pale green color that's less metallic than other Panchlora species but still attractive. Nymphs start brown and gradually develop their green coloration through successive molts, with the transformation beginning around the third or fourth instar. Despite being excellent climbers and capable fliers, they're surprisingly manageable in captivity with proper precautions. They're primarily nocturnal but less skittish than many roach species, often remaining visible during daylight hours in established colonies. Adults emit a distinctive but mild odor when disturbed - some describe it as musty or cucumber-like - but proper ventilation keeps this minimal. Basic Care Enclosure Setup: Minimum 15-litre container for starter colonies (10-15 individuals) Secure, fine-mesh ventilation essential - adults can fly 3-4 inch substrate layer for nymphs Mix of horizontal and vertical hides Egg cartons, cork bark, or cardboard tubes work well Apply petroleum jelly barrier below lid as escape prevention Substrate Mix: 40% coconut fiber 30% peat moss or compost 20% crushed dried leaves 10% sand or perlite Environmental Conditions: Cuban Cockroaches are notably tolerant of varying conditions, part of what makes them excellent for beginners. They thrive at normal room temperatures (22-26°C) but breed faster with slight warming. Humidity should be moderate - they're more forgiving of occasional dry periods than many tropical species. Mist every 2-3 days, or provide a moisture gradient with one damp corner. Good ventilation is crucial to prevent fungal issues and minimize any odor. Feeding: Feed 2-3 times weekly with a varied diet. They're unfussy eaters with robust appetites. Dry foods like fish flakes, dog kibble, and rolled oats should always be available. Fresh fruits and vegetables are eagerly consumed - apple, orange, carrot, and potato are favorites. They have a particular fondness for sweet foods and will swarm over banana or melon. Grains and cereals are excellent for boosting reproduction. Remove uneaten fresh foods within 48 hours. Breeding Notes P. nivea are prolific breeders under proper conditions. Females produce oothecae containing 20-30 eggs, which they carry briefly before depositing in substrate or hidden crevices. Incubation takes 40-50 days at optimal temperatures. Nymphs grow quickly, reaching maturity in 3-4 months with good nutrition. Adults live 12-20 months, with females capable of producing multiple oothecae throughout their lives. Colonies can grow rapidly - be prepared for population management or have a plan for excess roaches. Special Considerations Their climbing and flying abilities require secure enclosures - double-check all ventilation and apply barriers. While they cannot establish in UK homes due to temperature requirements, they're hardy enough to survive temporary escapes, so vigilance is important. They're excellent as feeders due to their soft bodies and high protein content, making them popular for poison dart frogs and small chameleons. This species cohabits well with other roaches and clean-up crew invertebrates. They're particularly good in bioactive setups where their active foraging helps prevent food waste accumulation. While generally healthy, overcrowding can lead to stress and reduced breeding - maintain appropriate colony sizes or split regularly. The mild odor they produce is completely harmless but can be minimized through good ventilation and regular cleaning. Some keepers report that adding activated carbon to the substrate helps absorb any smells. Their relatively small size and green color make them less intimidating than larger roach species, potentially helping nervous keepers overcome their hesitations about keeping roaches.

One of the most visually striking roaches available in the UK hobby, the Four Spotted Jade Roach brings a burst of metallic beauty to any invertebrate collection. With their distinctive jade-green base coloration punctuated by four prominent golden-yellow spots, these Australian natives look more like living jewelry than traditional roaches. Their manageable size, inability to climb smooth surfaces, and relatively calm demeanor make them an excellent choice for keepers seeking something truly unique without the challenges of more demanding species. A Glimpse Origin: Eastern Australia (Queensland and New South Wales) Scientific Name: Eustegasta buprestoides Difficulty Level: Low to Moderate Adult Size: 20-25mm (0.8-1 inch) Rarity: Medium Temperature: 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C) Humidity: 60% to 70% Favorite Foods: Leaf litter, fruits, vegetables Supplements: Fish flakes, bee pollen, dried mushrooms Overview The Four Spotted Jade Roach inhabits forest floors in eastern Australia, where they play a crucial role in breaking down leaf litter and fallen fruits. Their common name perfectly describes their appearance - a lustrous jade-green body decorated with four distinct yellow-gold spots arranged symmetrically on their wing covers. The metallic sheen of their exoskeleton is particularly pronounced under good lighting, creating an almost iridescent effect that shifts between emerald and bronze tones. Unlike many exotic roach species, E. buprestoides cannot climb smooth surfaces and are flightless, making them ideal for open-top displays or bioactive vivarium inhabitants. They're primarily nocturnal but will venture out during the day in established colonies, especially when favorite foods are offered. Adults exhibit mild sexual dimorphism, with males being slightly smaller and more slender than females. Basic Care Enclosure Setup: Minimum 10-litre container for starter colonies (10-15 individuals) Moderate ventilation - cross ventilation preferred 3-4 inch substrate layer essential for burrowing Multiple hides using cork bark, egg cartons, or leaves Dried oak or magnolia leaves as both food and shelter Optional moss patches for humidity zones Substrate Mix: 40% coconut fiber 30% decomposed hardwood leaf litter 20% rotted white wood 10% sand or perlite for drainage Environmental Conditions: These roaches tolerate a wider temperature range than many tropical species, making them well-suited to UK room temperatures. They thrive between 22-28°C but can tolerate drops to 18°C without issues. Humidity should be moderate - they don't require the high humidity of rainforest species. Mist one side of the enclosure twice weekly, creating a moisture gradient. Good ventilation is important to prevent stagnant conditions. Feeding: Feed 2-3 times weekly with a varied diet. They're excellent decomposers with a strong preference for dead leaves, which should always be available. Supplement with fresh vegetables like carrot, sweet potato, and squash. Fruits are eagerly accepted but should be given sparingly. Protein sources like fish flakes or dried mealworms should be offered weekly. They have a particular fondness for dried mushrooms and lichen when available. Breeding Notes E. buprestoides are ovoviviparous, producing live young after a gestation period of approximately 40-50 days. Females typically produce 15-25 nymphs per brood. Newborn nymphs are tiny (3-4mm) and immediately burrow into substrate, emerging to feed at night. They reach adult size in 4-6 months under optimal conditions. Adults live 12-18 months, with females capable of producing multiple broods. Colony growth is steady and manageable - they won't explode in numbers like some feeder species. Special Considerations Their inability to climb smooth surfaces makes them excellent for naturalistic setups, but they can climb rough surfaces like cork bark and wood. They're surprisingly good at squeezing through small gaps, so ensure ventilation holes are appropriately sized (maximum 2mm). While generally hardy, they're sensitive to excessive moisture - soggy conditions can lead to fungal issues. They coexist well with isopods and springtails in bioactive setups, occupying slightly drier areas than most isopod species prefer. This species benefits from seasonal temperature variations, with slightly cooler winter periods (18-20°C) potentially improving breeding success. They're completely harmless and cannot infest homes, requiring specific conditions to survive and breed.

These jewel-like cockroaches from the Yaeyama Islands of Japan are among the most visually striking invertebrates available in the hobby. With their metallic blue-green sheen and bright orange head markings, Eucorydia yasumatsui brings a splash of tropical color that rivals any butterfly. While not as straightforward as some feeder roaches, their manageable size and stunning appearance make them an excellent choice for display colonies and those looking to branch out from isopods. A Glimpse Origin: Yaeyama Islands, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan Scientific Name: Eucorydia yasumatsui Difficulty Level: Moderate Adult Size: 12-15mm (0.5-0.6 inches) Rarity: Medium to High Temperature: 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C) Humidity: 60% to 75% Favorite Foods: Fruits, pollen, jellies, leaf litter Supplements: Bee pollen, fruit beetle jelly, honey Overview The Sapphire Flower Cockroach is a diurnal species, meaning they're actually active during the day - unusual for roaches and perfect for display setups. Native to subtropical Japanese islands, they've evolved alongside flowering plants and can often be found visiting blooms in their natural habitat. Their common name comes from both their jewel-like coloration and their flower-visiting behavior. Adults display sexual dimorphism, with males showing more vibrant blue-green coloration and longer wings than females. Unlike many cockroach species, these remain relatively small and are completely harmless, unable to bite or cause any household infestations. They're also notably clean in their habits, lacking the distinctive odor associated with larger roach species. However, they can be somewhat delicate compared to the hardier species like Dubia or Red Runners, requiring more consistent conditions. Basic Care Enclosure Setup: Minimum 5-litre container for starter colonies (10-15 individuals) Moderate ventilation - balance between humidity retention and air flow 2-3 inch substrate layer of coconut fiber mixed with leaf litter Plenty of cork bark arranged both horizontally and vertically Live or artificial plants enhance display value Small branches for perching and molting Substrate Mix: 40% coconut fiber 30% decomposed oak leaf litter 20% orchid bark or wood chips 10% sphagnum moss Environmental Conditions: These roaches appreciate stable, warm conditions with moderate to high humidity. Unlike many tropical roaches, they don't thrive in extremely humid conditions and need some air circulation to prevent fungal issues. Mist every 2-3 days, allowing the enclosure to dry slightly between mistings. They benefit from a day/night light cycle and may display more during daylight hours with appropriate lighting. Feeding: Feed 2-3 times weekly with variety being key to success. Fresh fruits like apple, pear, and melon are readily accepted. Artificial beetle jellies (the type used for stag beetles) are particularly appreciated and provide balanced nutrition. Bee pollen should be available constantly as a protein source. They'll also consume dried leaves and dead flowers, particularly from fruit trees. Remove uneaten fresh foods within 48 hours to prevent mold. Breeding Notes E. yasumatsui reaches maturity in 3-4 months under optimal conditions. Females produce small oothecae (egg cases) containing 8-12 eggs, which they partially bury in substrate or attach to bark. Incubation takes 4-6 weeks at proper temperatures. Nymphs are tiny (2-3mm) and require fine foods like powdered pollen and finely ground fish flakes. Colony growth is steady but not explosive - expect gradual, sustainable population increases rather than rapid booms. Special Considerations Adults are capable of flight, though they rarely do so in captivity. Ensure your enclosure has a secure lid with appropriate ventilation. They're more sensitive to pesticides and chemicals than many roach species, so avoid using treated wood or leaves from areas that may have been sprayed. Their small size and daytime activity make them excellent inhabitants for planted terrariums, where they serve as both decomposers and visual interest. Temperature drops below 65°F can be fatal, particularly for nymphs. If keeping in cooler climates, supplemental heating may be necessary year-round.

These remarkable roaches carry a unique distinction in the invertebrate hobby - they're extinct in the wild, existing only in captivity after their sole habitat was destroyed in Guinea. Originally discovered in the Simandou Mountains, these living fossils represent a successful conservation story through hobbyist breeding programs. Their manageable size, wingless nature, and fascinating social behaviors make them both a privilege and a responsibility to keep. A Glimpse Origin: Simandou Mountains, Guinea (Extinct in Wild) Scientific Name: Simandoa conserfariam Difficulty Level: Low to Moderate Adult Size: 20-25mm (0.8-1 inch) Rarity: High (Conservation Dependent) Temperature: 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C) Humidity: 70% to 80% Favorite Foods: Protein-rich foods, fruits, vegetables Supplements: Fish flakes, dog food, bee pollen Overview Simandoa conserfariam has a tragic yet inspiring story. Their only known habitat - a single cave system in Guinea - was destroyed by bauxite mining operations. Fortunately, specimens had already entered the hobby trade, and dedicated keepers worldwide now maintain the entire global population. The species name "conserfariam" literally means "to preserve," reflecting their conservation-dependent status. These medium-sized, wingless roaches display interesting yellow-brown coloration with distinctive striping on nymphs. They're completely unable to climb smooth surfaces or fly, making them excellent candidates for open-top displays. Unlike many roach species, they exhibit complex social behaviors including communal child-rearing and group feeding behaviors that make them endlessly fascinating to observe. Basic Care Enclosure Setup: Minimum 10-litre container for starter colonies (10-15 individuals) Moderate to low ventilation to maintain humidity 3-4 inch substrate layer for burrowing behavior Multiple layers of egg cartons or cork bark Dark hiding areas essential for security Shallow water dish with sponge or crystals Substrate Mix: 40% coconut fiber 30% decomposed hardwood 20% sphagnum moss 10% crushed leaves Environmental Conditions: Cave roaches naturally inhabited a high-humidity environment with stable temperatures. Maintain consistent warmth between 75-85°F for optimal breeding. Humidity should remain high but not saturated - aim for that "cave-like" feeling without creating swamp conditions. Mist every other day, focusing on one side to create a moisture gradient. These roaches are largely nocturnal and prefer dim conditions, though they'll adapt to normal room lighting. Feeding: Feed 2-3 times weekly with protein being particularly important for this species. They're enthusiastic eaters with a preference for protein-rich foods. Dry dog or cat food (fish-based formulas work well), fish flakes, and bee pollen should form the staple diet. Supplement with fresh fruits and vegetables - they particularly enjoy apple, carrot, and squash. Always provide food in shallow dishes to prevent substrate contamination. Remove uneaten fresh foods within 24-48 hours. Breeding Notes S. conserfariam are ovoviviparous, giving birth to live young rather than laying egg cases. Females gestate for approximately 60 days before producing 20-30 small nymphs. With proper nutrition and temperatures, colonies can grow steadily. Interestingly, this species shows communal care behaviors - adults will allow nymphs from other mothers to shelter beneath them. Sexual maturity is reached in 4-5 months. Maintaining genetic diversity is important given their extinction in the wild, so avoid excessive culling of breeding adults. Special Considerations As an extinct-in-wild species, keeping Simandoa comes with an ethical responsibility to maintain healthy colonies. Never release them outdoors, even if your climate seems suitable. Share offspring with other responsible keepers to ensure the species' continued survival. They cannot climb glass or plastic, but can climb rough surfaces like wood or fabric, so ensure ventilation holes are appropriately sized. This species seems more sensitive to environmental toxins than many roaches - avoid using any pesticides or chemicals near their enclosure. Cedar and pine should never be used as substrates or hides due to toxic oils.

Here's a realistic product description for your Emerald Cockroach: Emerald Cockroach (Panchlora magnifica) Living up to their "magnifica" name, these Cuban jewels are arguably the most beautiful cockroach species in the hobby. Their stunning metallic green coloration shifts from emerald to lime depending on the light, creating an almost iridescent effect that photographs can barely capture. While more challenging than typical feeder species, their incredible appearance and unique behaviors make them worth the extra attention for dedicated keepers. A Glimpse Origin: Cuba and Caribbean Islands Scientific Name: Panchlora magnifica (formerly P. nivea) Difficulty Level: Moderate to Advanced Adult Size: 25-30mm (1-1.2 inches) Rarity: Medium to High Temperature: 78°F to 88°F (26°C to 31°C) Humidity: 75% to 85% Favorite Foods: Fruits, flowers, soft woods Supplements: Bee pollen, fruit beetle jelly, brown sugar water Overview The Emerald Cockroach belongs to the Panchlora genus, known for their vibrant green coloration - a rarity among cockroaches. Adults display a brilliant metallic green that's unlike anything else in the roach world, while nymphs start brown and gradually develop their emerald sheen through successive molts. They're strong fliers and excellent climbers, capable of scaling any surface including glass, which adds complexity to their husbandry. Native to tropical Caribbean environments, they naturally inhabit tree canopies where they feed on fruits, flowers, and tree sap. This arboreal lifestyle means they prefer vertical space and appreciate setups that mimic forest canopies. They're also notably clean for roaches, producing minimal odor when properly maintained, though they do emit a distinctive sweet smell when disturbed - some describe it as similar to cucumber or fresh-cut grass. Basic Care Enclosure Setup: Minimum 20-litre container for starter colonies (10-15 individuals) SECURE, fine-mesh ventilation essential - adults fly readily 4-5 inch substrate layer for nymphs to burrow Vertical cork rounds and branches crucial Live or artificial plants enhance natural behavior Petroleum jelly barrier recommended around lid edges Substrate Mix: 35% coconut fiber 25% composted leaves 20% rotted white wood (important for nutrition) 15% sphagnum moss 5% sand for drainage Environmental Conditions: These roaches demand consistently warm, humid conditions - they're truly tropical and won't tolerate temperature drops. Maintain temperatures above 75°F at all times; prolonged exposure below 70°F can be fatal. High humidity is essential but must be balanced with ventilation to prevent bacterial and fungal issues. Mist daily but ensure good airflow. They benefit from a consistent photoperiod and may become more active with appropriate day/night cycling. Feeding: Feed every other day with emphasis on sweet, soft foods. Ripe fruits like banana, mango, and papaya are eagerly accepted. They have a particular fondness for apple sauce and fruit baby food. Brown sugar water (offered in bottle caps with cotton) is greatly appreciated. Soft, white-rotted wood should always be available as they consume it for both nutrition and digestive health. Fresh flowers, especially sweet varieties like honeysuckle, are a special treat. Remove uneaten foods within 24 hours in this high-humidity environment. Breeding Notes P. magnifica can be slow to establish compared to other species. Females produce oothecae containing 20-30 eggs, which they carry briefly before depositing in substrate. Incubation takes 45-60 days at optimal temperatures. Nymphs are initially quite small (3-4mm) and brown, requiring finely ground foods. The color change to green begins around the 4th instar. Full maturity takes 5-7 months. Adults live 12-18 months, with females typically outliving males. Special Considerations Their ability to fly and climb any surface makes escape prevention critical. Double-check lid security and consider petroleum jelly barriers. They're attracted to lights and may congregate near enclosure lighting. While beautiful, they're not handling-friendly - they're fast, flighty, and the oils from human skin can damage their delicate coloration. This species seems particularly sensitive to pesticides and household chemicals. Never use treated wood products or collect leaves from areas that may have been sprayed. Their higher temperature requirements mean heating is essential year-round in most UK homes. Consider using heat mats or ceramic heat emitters with thermostats for stable temperatures.