Giant cave cockroach, Blaberus giganteus
(Blattodea: Blaberidae)

The giant cave cockroach is found in Central and South America as well as the Caribbean, and is known by a number of common names. This species is a member of a subfamily of cockroaches that are often called "giant," "deathshead," or "death's head" cockroaches. The latter names are due to the dark spot on the pronotum that resembles a skull. This species is often called the "giant cave cockroach" because it is found in large caves inhabited by bats.

The giant cave cockroach is the largest known species of cockroach as it averages about 4 inches (10 cm) in length, and may even approach 5 inches. It has wings, but does not fly. The hind legs are heavily spined, and are used for defense. This cockroach may be found around garbage and in dumpster areas. These cockroaches are often kept in colonies in science classrooms or as pets. However, they are slow growing and slow to breed. It is not known to be established in the U.S. but, while not considered to be a pest in its native areas, should not be released into the wild, especially in the southern states.

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Adult giant cave cockroach, Blaberus giganteus.
(Photographer: R.W. Baldwin, University of Florida)

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