Here’s a complete guide to Dubia Roaches (Blaptica dubia) as a pet food supplement, focusing on their nutritional value, benefits, and feeding recommendations for different pets.

1. Overview

• Common Names: Dubia Roach, Orange-Spotted Roach, Guyana Spotted Roach

• Scientific Name: Blaptica dubia

• Origin: Central & South America

• Purpose: Highly nutritious live feeder insect for reptiles, amphibians, birds, arachnids, and predatory fish.

• Why Popular: Meaty body, high protein, long lifespan, and cannot climb smooth surfaces (low escape risk).

2. Nutritional Profile (Approximate, Fresh Weight)

3. Benefits as a Pet Food Supplement

1. High Protein & Amino Acids – Supports healthy growth, muscle repair, and immune system.

2. Moderate Fat Content – Provides steady energy without excessive weight gain.

3. Soft Exoskeleton – Easier to digest than crickets or mealworms; ideal for juveniles.

4. No Chirping, Minimal Odor – More pleasant for keepers than crickets.

5. Longer Lifespan – Can be stored for months with proper care.

6. Low Escape Risk – Cannot climb smooth plastic or glass, unlike lobster roaches.

7. Sustainable Feeder – Breeds steadily without aggressive infestations in most climates.

4. Suitable Pets

• Reptiles: Bearded dragons, geckos, chameleons, anoles, monitors, skinks.

• Amphibians: Frogs, salamanders, newts, axolotls.

• Arachnids: Tarantulas, scorpions, predatory beetles.

• Birds: Finches, mynahs, quail, chickens (protein treat).

• Fish: Large cichlids, arowanas, predatory catfish.

• Small Mammals: Hedgehogs, sugar gliders, hamsters (occasional treat).

5. Feeding Guidelines

• Gut-Loading: Provide nutrient-rich vegetables, leafy greens, grains, and fruits 24–48 hours before feeding.

• Dusting: Roll in calcium + vitamin powder before feeding to reptiles & amphibians.

• Feeding Frequency:

  • Juveniles: Daily or every other day.

  • Adults: 2–4 times per week.

• Serving Size: Adjust to pet size; remove uneaten roaches after feeding to avoid stress to your pet.

6. Risks & Considerations

• Calcium Deficiency Risk: Natural Ca:P ratio is unbalanced; without supplementation, reptiles may develop metabolic bone disease.

• Overfeeding: Can cause obesity in sedentary pets if given in excess.

• Allergies: Keepers may develop sensitivity to roach dust over time.

• Breeding Control: Although they don’t infest easily, keep enclosures secure.

7. Comparison with Other Feeders

8. Storage & Handling

• Enclosure: Smooth-sided bin with egg crate stacks for hiding space.

• Temperature: 80–90°F (27–32°C) for optimal breeding.

• Diet: Dry roach chow + fresh produce for moisture.

• Water Source: Water crystals or gel — avoid open dishes to prevent drowning.

• Cleaning: Remove waste and uneaten food to prevent mold and odor.