Cockroach

Blaberidae

Madagascar Hissing Cockroach

The Madagascar hissing cockroach (Gromphadorhina portentosa) is a large flightless insect from the forests of Madagascar. It lives under the bark of trees or in leaf litter, feeding on plant matter including leaves and fallen fruit. It is a ovoviviparous organism. It is one of the largest cockroaches in the world and can reach 8 cm (3 inches).

Related Topics:
Madagascar hissing cockroach - Madagascar - Bark - Tree - Leaf - Plant - Fruit - Ovoviviparous

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Any predator that catches one of these cockroaches is in for a double shock. The legs of this insect are covered in needle-sharp spines and the cockroach can make a loud hissing sound. It does this by forcing air out of the breathing holes that run along the side of its body.

Related Topics:
Predator - Breathing holes

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Although they live in the forest, they are attracted by house lights, and will sometimes creep through open windows. However, they are harmless and will soon leave when disturbed.

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The Madagascan Hissing Cockroach is often used in television programmes and films where a large scary-looking insect is required. They are frequently used in the television program "Fear Factor" where they are used to scare contestants or they have to be eaten.

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