Giant Brazilian Cockroach

Blaberus Giganteus

Scientific Name

Giant Brazilian Cockroach:  
Blaberus Giganteus

Distribution and Habitat

Geographic Range

These roaches may be found in the tropical area of Panama as well as in the West Indies and northern South America.

Natural Habitat

They dwell inside quiet, dark humid caves, rock crevices and hollow trees.

Physical Characteristics

  • The giant cockroach, the largest of all cockroaches, measures approximately 2.5 to 4 inches long and about ½ to 1 and ½ inches wide. They possess long thread-like antennae with six swift running legs, a pair of veined wings, well developed eyes and a large prothorax which conceals most of its head.

Quick Facts

  1. Cockroaches use their hind legs for gliding and flying.

  2. They are one of the oldest forms of insects inhabiting the Earth today. Though, they live approximately 20 months on average.

  3. Their dominant defense mechanism is their ability to feel vibrations and flee.

Exhibit

Gorilla House

Conservation Status

Least Concern: The Giant Brazilian Cockroach is common or abundant and is likely to survive in the wild.

Help Us End Extinction

Adoption is simple. Show how much you care about animals all year round by selecting your favorite animal from our adoption list.

Become A Hero

Diet

Omnivore

This member of the blaberidae family is an omnivore and in the wild will consume plant matter and dead animals. In captivity it will feast on romaine lettuce, bananas, apples, carrots and other fruits and vegetables.