Madagascar Hissing Cockroach- Gromphadorhina portentosa

Size- The Madagascar Hissing cockroach is one of the largest species of cockroach, reaching lengths of 2-3 inches and one inch wide. They weigh 23 grams.

Life span- 2-5 years.

Diet- They are decomposers and feed upon fallen fruits and decaying plant matter.

Geographic range- They are native to the Island of Madagascar, off the Eastern coast of Africa.

Habitat- Forests where they can be found on the forest floor under leaf litter and logs.

Reproduction- The females appear as if they are giving live birth, however, they are ovoviviparous which means they retain the egg case (ootheca) within their abdomen where the young hatch. They can have up to 60 nymph roaches in one ootheca! Most species of roaches leave the ootheca on the ground or glued to a solid surface.

Special adaptations- When these wingless roaches feel threatened, are defending territories or mating, they will force air out of their spiracles, making a hissing sound. Spiracles are breathing pores used by insects for respiration. They are located along the thorax and abdomen.

Behavior- Males have modified 'horns' on the top of their exoskeleton which they use in shoving combats against other males. The males are extremely territorial.