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Emerald cockroach (Pseudoglomeris magnifica)

Emerald cockroach (Pseudoglomeris magnifica) in a terrarium

Invertebrates · Difficulty: Intermediate

Key facts and care guidance for Emerald cockroach (Pseudoglomeris magnifica) (origin: South-East Asia and China (montane forests)). Adult size around approx. 2.5–3 cm. Life expectancy females ~2 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.

Short answers

Emerald cockroach: How big does the enclosure need to be?

Approx. 30×30×40 cm (they climb, so a taller tank; very good ventilation).

Emerald cockroach: What temperature does it need?

Daytime 22–28 °C (up to ~30 °C at the warmest point), at night 20–23 °C.

Emerald cockroach: Does it need UVB lighting?

UVB: No UVB needed.

Emerald cockroach: How long do they live?

Life expectancy: females ~2 years.

Emerald cockroach: Is it suitable for beginners?

Rather not – it is considered an intermediate species (difficulty: Intermediate).

Climate

Daytime temperature
22–28 °C (up to ~30 °C at the warmest point)
Night temperature
20–23 °C
Basking spot
—
Humidity
70–80 % with very good air circulation
UVB
No UVB needed

Enclosure

Minimum size
approx. 30×30×40 cm (they climb, so a taller tank; very good ventilation)
Substrate
Forest humus or peat with beech and oak leaves, 5–10 cm; mist daily (droplets on the glass and leaves), avoiding waterlogging

Feeding

Food
Vegetables, fruit, a little protein or dry food, leaf litter
Feeding interval
fresh food 2–3×/week

Key facts

Adult size
approx. 2.5–3 cm
Life expectancy
females ~2 years
Origin
South-East Asia and China (montane forests)
Protection status
Not protected. Do not release it.
Brumation
None
Cohabitation
Group: a sociable species that copes well in colonies with mixed age groups; no cannibalism with good care. Escape-proofing matters more than any social structure, given the excellent climbing ability.

Notes

One of the most colourful cockroaches (metallic emerald green). More demanding: it needs high humidity AND good ventilation, and breeds slowly (nymphs take 6–9 months to maturity, gestation 4–6 months). So rather one for experienced keepers.

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Related species

All species in the care wiki →

What you need to start

To keep Emerald cockroach (Pseudoglomeris magnifica) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (approx. 30×30×40 cm (they climb, so a taller tank; very good ventilation)), substrate (Forest humus or peat with beech and oak leaves, 5–10 cm; mist daily (droplets on the glass and leaves), avoiding waterlogging), a heat source with a thermostat, UVB lighting, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.

The complete, interactive care database is in the Reptoria app.

Last updated: 25 September 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corydidarum_magnifica, https://insektenliebe.com/haltungsberichte-schaben/pseudoglomeris-magnifica-smaragdschabe/

All values are non-binding guidance and do not replace expert advice. Research thoroughly from several sources before acquiring and keeping an animal, and observe the applicable law (species and animal protection in particular).