What size bin for dubia colony? Other newbie ???

[scorch1]

I think we are going to take the plunge and start a colony. I have people who would get roaches from us if we are overrun with them. I was looking to see what I had on hand that I could use to set up the colony. I have two solid colored bins that I could use. One is 21 gallons and the other is 37 gallons. Which one would be best for our colony?

I was thinking of ordering 40 adults (30 females and 10 males) to get started and maybe adding in a few mixed sizes with them.

Also, if I am to use one of these bins and wanted to use heat tape what size would I get? I assumed I would put it on the outside but I thought I read on here that some people put their heat mats on the inside of the bins....perhaps I read that wrong.

Any other tips/suggestions are appreciated. We have been using them as feeders so we are familiar with him and know that our little guy likes them.
Thanks,
Jamie

 

[CooperDragon]

Either size would work well. I use a 20g glass tank with mesh top and it's fine for my small colony. I have it sitting on a bakers rack to allow ventilation and put a heat mat right on the bottom. I haven't used the tape, so I'm not sure what side I'd use. My heat mat is on one side of the tank underneath the cardboard housing. I keep the other side of the tank unheated and put the food on that end.