Hissing Cockroach Scientific Name
Gromphadorhina portentosa is the scientific name for what is commonly referred to as the Madagascar hissing cockroach. These omnivores feed on decaying organic matter and can measure up to three inches in length. However, despite their large size, the Madagascar hissing cockroach is capable of hiding within incredibly narrow spaces.
Madagascar hissing cockroaches are brown in color, are wingless and have long antennae. Males have larger pronatal humps on the thorax and bushier antennae than females. Their common name is derived from the ability of both sexes to make hissing sounds by releasing air through their enlarged spiracles. This hissing is used to communicate with the rest of the colony, as well as to warn away predators and threats. Males are particularly aggressive and have been known to remain within their colonies for months at a time in order to protect them from harm.