All About Pisces True Bugs – Live Lobster Roaches

1. What Lobster Roaches Are

Lobster Roaches are Nauphoeta cinerea, also called Speckled Roaches.
They are named “lobster roach” because of their curved, lobster-like appearance and quick scuttling movement.

They are widely used as live feeder insects for reptiles, amphibians, birds, fish, and many invertebrates.

2. Nutritional Profile (Approx.)

• Protein: 18–21%

• Fat: 5–7%

• Moisture: 65–70%

• Fiber: Moderate

• Calcium-to-Phosphorus ratio: Low (supplementation recommended)

Why they make good feeders:
They are soft-bodied, fast-moving, high in protein, and suitable for pets that prefer active prey.

3. Benefits of Lobster Roaches

• Fast breeders, faster than Dubia roaches.

• Soft exoskeleton, easy for reptiles and amphibians to digest.

• Highly active, helps stimulate hunting responses.

• Low odor, cleaner than crickets.

• Good for many size classes, from small nymphs to adults.

• Long lifespan, allowing storage for weeks.

4. Why Pisces True Bugs Version Is Preferred

• Hygienically raised.

• Carefully size-graded.

• Reliable survival during transport.

• Very healthy and gut-load friendly.

5. Care & Housing

• Container: Plastic tub with secure lid; they can climb smooth surfaces, so keep the top secure.

• Ventilation: Plenty of airflow.

• Hiding places: Egg crates or cardboard sheets.

• Temperature: 28–32°C ideal for growth and breeding.

• Humidity: Moderate (40–60%); avoid excess moisture.

• Food: Grains, oats, fish food, vegetables, fruits.

• Water: Water gel crystals or moist veggies.

Important: Because Lobster Roaches can climb, use a barrier like petroleum jelly around the top rim to prevent escapes.

6. Feeding to Pets

• Gut-load 24–48 hours before feeding.

• Dust with calcium or multivitamins.

• Choose proper size:

  • Small nymphs → geckos, frogs, tarantulas

  • Medium → bearded dragons, skinks

  • Large adults → monitors, birds, large amphibians

• Feeding dishes with smooth walls help prevent escape.

7. Best Suited For

• Leopard geckos

• Bearded dragons

• Chameleons

• Tree frogs and pacman frogs

• Tarantulas and large invertebrates

• Fish that eat live prey

• Birds requiring high-protein treats

8. Considerations and Cautions

• Good climbers – must secure enclosure.

• Very fast, so handle carefully.

• Not ideal for households concerned about escape risks.

• Low calcium, so supplementation is needed.

• Overcrowding can stress roaches and reduce breeding.