Interested in starting Dubia Roach colony

[digi]

Hello there, we're thinking about starting a Dubia Roach Colony. I'm running out of food for him so I need something quick and I'm wondering if I can buy a larger amount of Dubia Adults so I can feed them and start a colony? Is it ok to start a colony with all adults? Where do you recommend I get a good sized starter kit?

Thanks.

 

[hockeyballz30]

most sellers will sell a starter kit or a mixed batch...This is the best case scenario in starting a colony. You will get several different sizes. The adults will keep breeding and you will have a big variety of different sizes. I usually let it get established while I am feeding another feeder such as supers that way I do not get rid of my supply so quickly.

 

[digi]

Thanks for the reply, I live in CA, any recommendations for a good seller? Also, what are "supers"?

 

[hockeyballz30]

Super Worms...They recommended for adults as a staple feeder. Lots of movement and great source of nutrition. http://www.greatlakeshornworm.com/ This site is the best site for superworms and hornworms which are excellent to feed every once and awhile. I have not ordered dubias in quite some time because my colony has been self sustaining for a long time now. Maybe another user can suggest a good site to order roaches.

 

[jackiesmama]

i agree i get my supers from greatlakes too (rob) does a great job at delivery! i usually buy 1000 supers at a time and put them in a large rubbermaid container.. they move alot and will produce alot of moisture so make its a large container!. it will take a few months for your colony to get established. i started mine a couple months ago and there still growing . i have over 200 babies now just waiting for them to grow up to be adults..

 

[hockeyballz30]

definitely trump crickets in every area IMO.. They don't smell as bad, they don't jump, few die offs, less chance of parasites, more meat, breed easier. ALL around winner for me.

 

[digi]

What size container do I need? Do I keep it room temp or put them in the fridge?

Thanks for the replies guys, I order 1000 Large Superworms.

 

[jackiesmama]

no dont put them in fridge they will die, room temp, go to target and get a big container like 3feet wide ,3 feet high. i keep the lid off also there is some super bedding/food (its the same thing) they eat it and lay in it.also make sure u put a veggie in with them for there water , i give mine carrots they love it ...

 

[digi]

Awesome, thanks for the info.

 

[digi]

Quick question, I got a couple boxes of bran cereal, should I throw it in the blender before spreading it in the bin?

 

[jackiesmama]

i recomend the bedding that u can buy on line with the supers i believe its 10 or 20 $

 

[adragonslove85]

I live in southern CA and just bought adults from dubiadeli.com which is in northern CA.... they are already producing like crazy.... i also purchased some nymphs for feeders so i dont have to disturb the breeding ones.... good luck....

 

[RelentlessChaos]

I am thinking about trying so as well, I don't think there is much to it. Just buy a container, they can't climb or fly or jump etc so it should be fine without a lid. Get a ton of egg cartons for hiding places. A seprate container w/ a few select males / females & let them do work. Make sure to have water crystals or something & food.