Shadow Roach
Pycnoscelus niger
The shadow roach is a dark, burrowing Pycnoscelus maintained in specialist and feeder colonies. It closely resembles the Surinam roach, but has darker overall coloration, red-orange legs and differences on the underside of the last abdominal segment. Captive females reproduce without males and release live young, allowing colonies to grow rapidly. Keepers provide organic substrate with sheltered moist areas, ventilation and varied food. Older sources use the spelling Pycnoscelus nigra.
Colors: Wild Type