Description
Halloween Hissing Cockroach (Elliptorhina javanica)
The Halloween Hissing Cockroach is a striking and unusual species from Madagascar, recognised for its contrasting black and orange markings and characteristic hissing behaviour. Smaller and more colourful than the commonly kept Madagascar Hissing Cockroach, Elliptorhina javanica is hardy, fascinating to observe and relatively straightforward to care for, making it an excellent choice for both newer and experienced invertebrate keepers.
Habitat
Halloween Hissing Cockroaches are terrestrial but capable climbers and require a warm enclosure with plenty of hiding places.
- Enclosure: Secure, well-ventilated terrestrial enclosure with a tight-fitting lid
- Temperature: Around 24–28°C
- Humidity: Moderate, approximately 50–70%
- Decor: Cork bark, leaf litter, branches and plenty of dark hiding places
- Good ventilation is important to prevent excessively damp or stagnant conditions
- A shallow source of fresh water or suitable water crystals can be provided
Feeding
Halloween Hissing Cockroaches are omnivorous scavengers and benefit from a varied diet.
- Diet: Fresh vegetables, leafy greens, small amounts of fruit and suitable dry invertebrate foods
- Protein: Occasional protein-rich foods can be provided as part of a varied diet
- Feeding Frequency: Food can be offered several times per week
- Remove uneaten fresh foods before they begin to spoil
- A source of calcium can also be made available
General Care
Elliptorhina javanica is a hardy species that can be kept successfully in groups when provided with sufficient space, food and hiding areas.
- Temperament: Generally calm and non-aggressive towards people
- Handling: Can be handled gently, although they are capable climbers and should be supervised
- Adult Size: Approximately 4–5cm
- Lifespan: Commonly around 2–3 years depending on conditions
- Housing: Can be kept in groups and may breed readily under suitable conditions
- Hissing: Adults can produce an audible hiss when disturbed or during interactions with other cockroaches
- Maintenance: Regularly remove spoiled food and maintain good ventilation and general enclosure hygiene
Why Choose a Halloween Hissing Cockroach?
- Striking black and orange colouration
- Fascinating audible hissing behaviour
- Hardy and relatively straightforward to maintain
- Can be kept in groups
- Interesting nocturnal activity
- Excellent introduction to exotic cockroach keeping
- Great display species for naturalistic enclosures
With its bold Halloween-inspired colouration, unusual hissing behaviour and straightforward husbandry, the Halloween Hissing Cockroach is a fascinating and distinctive addition to any invertebrate collection.
Payment & Security
Your payment information is processed securely. We do not store credit card details nor have access to your credit card information.