Defining Characteristics:
- Great beginner bug
- Easy to care for
- Bold
- Interesting
- Good in groups
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Recommended Vivarium Size & Setup: Dwarf hissers do not require a lot of room and will do well kept in a 10 gallon tank or similar enclosure. They need adequate ventilation as well as a secure lid, as hissing roaches can easily climb glass. A layer of petroleum jelly along the inside rim of the enclosure can stop roaches from reaching the top.
Coconut fiber can be used as substrate, with cork or egg crate as a shelter for the roaches, as well as a food and water dish. Excess food or dead roaches/exoskeletons should be removed regularly to maintain a clean enclosure.
Temperature (°F): 75-85 degrees is their preferred temperature range. Dwarf hissers prefer temperatures over 80 and should never be kept below 70 degrees.
Humidity: Acceptable humidity for dwarf hissing cockroaches is around 50%+. Hissers originate from Madagascar and can live comfortably at higher humidity, and will thrive between 60%-70%. Keep coconut fiber damp and mist regularly.
Size: Nymphs are born at about 1/8 inch, while adult males and females typically reach about 1 inch. At time of sale roaches will range from 1/2-1 inch.
Age: Hissing roaches generally live 2-3 years. Lifespan in the wild is unknown, but well cared for captive hissers can live up to 4-5 years.