Small containers work best for starter cultures of this diminutive species, something no larger than quarts IMO.
The substrate should be at least a couple inches deep, and can consist of coconut fiber, potting soil, etc., preferably topped with decaying leaf litter.
Most of the enclosure should be kept dry, with a quarter to a third of the substrate kept moist at all times. High ventilation levels are recommended.
Diet:
Dog/cat/fish food and decaying leaf litter should be the staple diet for nymphs, and I recommend offering fresh fruits for the adults too.
Temperature:
Temps in the 75-85F° range work best for breeding and fast growth.
Breeding/Life cycle:
Adults live around 4-6 months, with males dying first. The females lay lots of smooth, rotund oothecae that are quite large compared to their body mass, and drop them loosely in the substrate. Interestingly enough, nymphs do not hatch out from the ootheca seam like in all other egg laying roaches, but instead chew their way out of the side of their oothecae.
Diet:
Dog/cat/fish food and decaying leaf litter should be the staple diet for nymphs, and I recommend offering fresh fruits for the adults too.
Temperature:
Temps in the 75-85F° range work best for breeding and fast growth.
Breeding/Life cycle:
Adults live around 4-6 months, with males dying first. The females lay lots of smooth, rotund oothecae that are quite large compared to their body mass, and drop them loosely in the substrate. Interestingly enough, nymphs do not hatch out from the ootheca seam like in all other egg laying roaches, but instead chew their way out of the side of their oothecae.
They take 1-2 months to hatch depending on the temperature, and the resulting nymphs take around 6-8 months to mature. Overall, an easy Corydiid to keep and breed.
