Henschoutedenia flexivitta ‘Giant Lobster Roach’

Description

Scientific Name: Henschoutedenia flexivitta
Common Name: Giant Lobster Roach

Henschoutedenia flexivitta, commonly known as the Giant Lobster Roach, is a striking African cockroach species prized for its impressive size, attractive colouration, and unusual appearance. Its elongated body and distinctive markings in nymphs give it a resemblance to a miniature terrestrial lobster, earning it one a memorable common name..

Native to Central Africa, this species has become increasingly sought after among cockroach enthusiasts due to its impressive adult size and excellent display qualities. Furthermore, they are prolific and soft bodied making them a great feeder.

Native Habitat

Henschoutedenia flexivitta originates from tropical regions of Central Africa. It inhabits forests and woodland environments where it shelters beneath bark, leaf litter, fallen timber, and other organic debris.

These habitats provide stable humidity, abundant food sources, and protection from predators. Therefore, enclosures containing plenty of natural cover closely replicate the conditions encountered in the wild.

Care Information

This species thrives in a well-ventilated enclosure containing deep substrate, cork bark, rotten wood, and leaf litter. A naturalistic setup encourages normal behaviours and provides numerous hiding places and leave two thirds of the enclosure dry.

Temperature: 22-35°C
Humidity: Moderate humidity with good ventilation
Diet: Leaf litter, decaying plant material, fruit, vegetables, fish flakes, bee pollen, and protein-rich foods
Difficulty: Easy

A moisture gradient allows individuals to regulate their preferred conditions naturally. Additionally, regular access to leaf litter and decaying organic matter supports long-term colony health.

Adults and nymphs remain active and frequently explore their surroundings.

Breeding Information

Henschoutedenia flexivitta breeds successfully in captivity when maintained under stable environmental conditions. Females are ovoviviparous and give birth to live young.

The nymphs display attractive colouration and gradually develop their adult characteristics through successive moults. Furthermore, established colonies often increase steadily when provided with quality nutrition and suitable environmental conditions.

Consistent temperatures, adequate humidity, and a varied diet generally produce the best breeding results.

Captive-Bred Details

All specimens are captive bred. Captive-bred Henschoutedenia flexivitta adapt readily to established enclosures and support sustainable invertebrate keeping.

Whether maintained as a display colony or breeding project  or feeders. This remarkable species offers a unique combination of size, beauty, and personality that continues to attract collectors worldwide.

Captive Bred