Hello gentlemen,
I recently got a pair of Macropanesthia rhinoceros nymphs —a species highly prized among enthusiasts in our circles. While I’ve kept various other roaches for years, I’ve never dealed with this Australian guys before. I’ve come across conflicting info regarding their care: some say they need a deep substrate layer, while others insist on a shallow layer of just 1–2 cm (especially for nymphs). Regarding their diet opinions vary - some recommend carrots and zucchini, while others feed them apples and sweet potatoes. Everyone seems to rule out store-bought eucalyptus in favor of oak leaves (which they reportedly love and can use as complete substitute for eucalyptus). There's so much conflicting advice, and I want to provide the best possible conditions for my ones; that’s why I’m here - to get info straight from source, from people with years of experience keeping this species. First, I’m interested in their diet: is a supply of oak leaf litter sufficient on its own, or do they need other types of leaves as well? Second question, how often should I offer vegetables and which vegetables (or fruits) do they prefer more? Also, do they need a dedicated water source—perhaps a water gel like the ones made for beetles etc? Next, regarding substrate depth and composition: I’ve prepared a 50/50 mix of potting soil and sand, with a depth of 2 cm. I’m also concerned about temperature and humidity - what should the constant levels be and how often should I mist them? I’d appreciate any helpful advice. I have experience keeping other roaches, but not Australian ones; I’m a novice in this specific area and would be grateful for any guidance. Also, I'm attaching photos of their living area. Thanks in advance.
I recently got a pair of Macropanesthia rhinoceros nymphs —a species highly prized among enthusiasts in our circles. While I’ve kept various other roaches for years, I’ve never dealed with this Australian guys before. I’ve come across conflicting info regarding their care: some say they need a deep substrate layer, while others insist on a shallow layer of just 1–2 cm (especially for nymphs). Regarding their diet opinions vary - some recommend carrots and zucchini, while others feed them apples and sweet potatoes. Everyone seems to rule out store-bought eucalyptus in favor of oak leaves (which they reportedly love and can use as complete substitute for eucalyptus). There's so much conflicting advice, and I want to provide the best possible conditions for my ones; that’s why I’m here - to get info straight from source, from people with years of experience keeping this species. First, I’m interested in their diet: is a supply of oak leaf litter sufficient on its own, or do they need other types of leaves as well? Second question, how often should I offer vegetables and which vegetables (or fruits) do they prefer more? Also, do they need a dedicated water source—perhaps a water gel like the ones made for beetles etc? Next, regarding substrate depth and composition: I’ve prepared a 50/50 mix of potting soil and sand, with a depth of 2 cm. I’m also concerned about temperature and humidity - what should the constant levels be and how often should I mist them? I’d appreciate any helpful advice. I have experience keeping other roaches, but not Australian ones; I’m a novice in this specific area and would be grateful for any guidance. Also, I'm attaching photos of their living area. Thanks in advance.
