Lirometopum cf. coronatum (Black-faced Pitbull predatory katydid)

Lirometopum cf. coronatum

Basic caresheet

Common name
Black-Faced Pitbull Predatory Katydid

Origin
Bocas del Toro Archipelago, Panama

Adult size
7–8 cm in females
6–7 cm in males

Temperature and humidity requirements
24–28 °C
70–80 percent humidity

Feeding source
Primarily carnivorous, feed on pre-killed insects such as crickets, roaches, and mealworms
Accepts high protein fish flakes or pellets
Can be offered occasional soft fruit like banana, mango, or apple (always pesticide free)

Housing requirements
Plastic or glass terrarium with a secure, well-ventilated lid
Coconut fiber or sphagnum moss works best as substrate
Provide vertical branches and live or artificial plants for hiding and climbing
Mist lightly every 2 days with chlorine free water at dusk

Breeding guidelines

Ensure both sexes are well-fed before pairing to avoid cannibalism
Introduce adults when they are at least one month into the adult stage
Provide a densely planted terrarium or net cage with vertical plants
Females lay eggs in plant stems or soft substrate
Offer dark periods at night to encourage egg laying

Eggs hatch in 8–10 weeks
Nymphs can be kept together until L2 or L3 before separating to prevent cannibalism
Young nymphs need frequent light misting to avoid drying out

Egg incubation guidelines

Eggs laid in plants or substrate can hatch naturally
If removed, place eggs in a small ventilated plastic container
Use 2–3 layers of moist paper towel or fine moss and keep evenly damp but never wet
Check every 2–3 days and replace substrate weekly to avoid mold