So, you’re raising dubia roaches? Awesome! These little guys are a fantastic feeder insect for many reptiles, amphibians, and even some birds. But just like any pet, they need the right nutrition to thrive. Forget just tossing them scraps; a good diet means healthier, more nutritious roaches for your animals, and a more productive colony for you.
Choosing the right food for your dubia roaches doesn’t have to be complicated. I’ve been raising them for my gecko for a while now, and I’ve learned a thing or two about what works and what doesn’t. I’m sharing my top picks to help you keep your dubia roaches happy and healthy.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Repashy Bug Burger: Premium, all-in-one powdered food, excellent for growth and gut-loading.
- Fluker’s Orange Cube Complete Cricket Diet: Convenient, ready-to-use gel cubes, great for hydration and basic nutrition.
- Mazuri Small Bird Diet: Versatile pelleted food, a good source of protein and carbohydrates.
- Dubia Roaches Food Complete Gutload Diet: Specifically formulated for dubia roaches, promotes optimal health and reproduction.
- Dried Mealworms: A supplemental protein source, ideal for occasional treats or boosting protein levels.
Top 5 Best Food for Dubia Roaches
1. Repashy Bug Burger
Repashy Bug Burger is a premium powdered food designed for feeder insects. It’s a complete diet, meaning it provides all the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and reproduction. Just mix it with water to create a gel-like consistency.
Pros:
- ✅ Complete nutrition, supporting optimal growth and health.
- ✅ Easy to prepare, simply mix with water.
- ✅ Excellent for gut-loading feeder insects.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than other options.
- ❌ Requires preparation and mixing.
- ❌ May mold if not stored properly after mixing.
Verdict: Repashy Bug Burger is a great choice if you want a high-quality, complete food for your dubia roaches and don’t mind the extra cost. It’s especially good for those who prioritize gut-loading their feeders.
2. Fluker’s Orange Cube Complete Cricket Diet
Fluker’s Orange Cube Complete Cricket Diet offers a convenient and mess-free way to feed your dubia roaches. These gel cubes provide both food and hydration, simplifying your feeding routine. They’re also enriched with calcium to benefit the reptiles eating your roaches.
Pros:
- ✅ Convenient and easy to use, no preparation needed.
- ✅ Provides both food and hydration.
- ✅ Enriched with calcium.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as nutritionally complete as other options.
- ❌ Some roaches might not readily accept the gel form.
- ❌ Can dry out if left exposed for too long.
Verdict: Fluker’s Orange Cubes are ideal for those looking for a super convenient option that also provides hydration. If you are looking for a complete nutritional diet, these may not be the best option.
3. Mazuri Small Bird Diet
Mazuri Small Bird Diet is a versatile pelleted food that can be a cost-effective option for feeding dubia roaches. It’s formulated to meet the nutritional needs of small birds, so it provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins for your roaches too. My neighbor swears by this for her roaches, and she has a thriving colony!
Pros:
- ✅ Cost-effective and readily available.
- ✅ Provides a good balance of nutrients.
- ✅ Pelleted form is easy to store and handle.
Cons:
- ❌ Not specifically formulated for insects.
- ❌ May need to be supplemented with other foods for optimal nutrition.
- ❌ Some roaches may find the pellets hard to eat.
Verdict: Mazuri Small Bird Diet is a good budget-friendly option for feeding dubia roaches, especially if you supplement it with other foods like fruits and vegetables. It’s also great if you already have some on hand for other pets!
4. Dubia Roaches Food Complete Gutload Diet
Dubia Roaches Food Complete Gutload Diet is a specialized food formulated specifically for dubia roaches. It aims to maximize their nutritional value as feeders by ensuring they are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It is designed to enhance growth, reproduction, and overall health of your colony.
Pros:
- ✅ Specifically formulated for dubia roaches’ needs.
- ✅ Promotes optimal gut-loading for feeder insects.
- ✅ Supports healthy growth and reproduction.
Cons:
- ❌ May be more expensive than general-purpose foods.
- ❌ Availability might be limited compared to other options.
Verdict: If you are serious about raising healthy and nutritious dubia roaches, this specialized gut-load diet is worth considering. It can make a noticeable difference in the health of your reptiles.
5. Dried Mealworms
Dried mealworms are an excellent source of protein and can be used as a supplemental food for dubia roaches. While they shouldn’t be the only thing you feed your roaches, they provide a beneficial protein boost, especially for breeding colonies or growing nymphs.
Pros:
- ✅ High in protein.
- ✅ Easy to store and handle.
- ✅ Can be used as a treat or supplement.
Cons:
- ❌ Not a complete diet on their own.
- ❌ Can be high in fat if fed in excess.
- ❌ Should be used in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Verdict: Dried mealworms are a great addition to your dubia roach diet as a protein supplement, especially when you want to boost growth or support a breeding colony. Just don’t overdo it!
Buying Guide
Choosing the right food for your dubia roaches depends on several factors, including your budget, the size of your colony, and your goals for raising them. Here’s a breakdown of what to consider:
- Nutritional Completeness: Look for foods that provide a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. A complete diet will ensure your roaches are healthy and nutritious for your reptiles.
- Ease of Use: Consider how much time and effort you’re willing to put into feeding. Some foods, like the Fluker’s Orange Cubes, are ready to use, while others, like Repashy Bug Burger, require preparation.
- Cost: Balance the cost of the food with its nutritional value. Cheaper options may require supplementation, which can add to the overall cost.
- Life Stage: Nymphs and breeding adults have different nutritional needs. Nymphs benefit from higher protein levels for growth, while breeding adults need a diet rich in vitamins and minerals for reproduction.
- Gut-Loading: If you’re feeding your roaches to reptiles, consider gut-loading them with nutritious foods before feeding. This will increase the nutritional value of the roaches for your pets.
Remember to provide a variety of foods to ensure your dubia roaches get all the nutrients they need. In addition to commercial foods, you can also supplement their diet with fresh fruits and vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens.
FAQs
What should I avoid feeding my dubia roaches?
Avoid feeding your dubia roaches cat or dog food, as these can be harmful. Also, avoid citrus fruits, as they can be toxic to roaches. Don’t give them anything that’s heavily processed or contains preservatives.
How often should I feed my dubia roaches?
Feed your dubia roaches daily, providing enough food that they can consume within 24 hours. Adjust the amount based on the size of your colony and their appetite.
Do dubia roaches need water?
Yes, dubia roaches need a source of water. You can provide water through a shallow dish with water beads or gel, or by offering fresh fruits and vegetables with high water content.
Can I feed my dubia roaches fruit and vegetables?
Yes, fruits and vegetables are a great addition to their diet. Carrots, sweet potatoes, apples, and leafy greens are all good options. Just make sure to remove any uneaten food to prevent mold growth.
Conclusion
Feeding your dubia roaches a nutritious diet is key to raising a healthy colony and providing nutritious feeders for your reptiles. By choosing the right foods and providing a balanced diet, you can ensure your roaches thrive. Consider your budget, the size of your colony, and your specific goals when selecting the best food for your dubia roaches. Experiment with different options to see what works best for you and your roaches. Have fun!
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