Caring for your Question Mark Roaches

Question Mark Roach

(Therea olegrandjeani)

Basic Information:

The Question Mark Roach is a small, beautifully patterned roach species native to tropical regions of India. It gets its name from the distinctive cream-colored markings on its dark wings that resemble question marks. Adults typically reach about 1–1.5 inches in length.

Unlike many other roach species, Question Mark Roaches are relatively slow-moving and spend much of their time hiding under bark or burrowed in substrate. They are primarily nocturnal and emerge at night to forage. Due to their attractive appearance and manageable size, they are popular both as display invertebrates and as part of bioactive setups.

Lifespan:
1–2 years in captivity with proper care.

Sexing:

Sexing is possible with close observation.
• Males have fully developed wings and are more slender.
• Females are slightly broader-bodied and may have shorter or less developed wings.

Enclosure:

• Juveniles: Small enclosure or critter keeper.
• Adults: 5–10 gallon enclosure or larger for colonies.

Provide a secure, well-ventilated enclosure with plenty of cork bark and hiding spaces. Vertical stacking of bark pieces works especially well, as they prefer to hide in tight crevices.

Substrate:
A moisture-retaining, natural substrate is ideal, such as:
• Coconut fiber
• Organic topsoil
• Leaf litter mixed into substrate

Substrate should be several inches deep to support burrowing and humidity retention.

Lighting & Temperature:

• Basking Spot: Not required
• Ambient Temperature: 75–85°F
• Cool Side: 72–75°F
• UVB Lighting: Not required. Provide a natural day/night cycle.

Warm, stable temperatures encourage activity and breeding.

Humidity:

Maintain 60–80% humidity. Keep one side of the enclosure slightly more moist to create a humidity gradient.

Food:

• Question Mark Roaches are omnivorous scavengers.
  • Fresh fruits and vegetables (carrots, apples, leafy greens)
  • Dry foods such as fish flakes or roach chow
  • Occasional protein sources

  Remove uneaten food before it spoils.

Water:

Provide moisture through fresh foods and occasional misting. A water dish is not typically necessary but can be used with caution to prevent drowning.

Question Mark Roaches are an excellent choice for keepers looking for a visually appealing, easy-to-care-for invertebrate. Their unique markings and calm behavior make them ideal for display and bioactive setups.

Where Can I Buy Question Mark Roaches Near Me?

If you're in Berkeley County, West Virginia, it’s just a short drive to Critters, Reptiles & Exotics in Frederick, Maryland, where you can check availability of Question Mark Roaches and get expert advice on colony setup and care. Whether you're starting a feeder colony or building a bioactive enclosure, there’s always a new adventure waiting at Critters, Reptiles & Exotics!