Simandoa conserfariam

Simandoa conserfariam (Simandoa cave roach,also known as "Extinct in the Wild Roach") is a striking, fast-moving cockroach originally from a single cave system in the Simandou Mountains (Pic de Fon), Guinea, West Africa. Its only known habitat was destroyed shortly after its discovery by bauxite mining, making the species extinct in the wild. It survives today exclusively through captive breeding in zoos and the hobby.

Appearance: Nymphs hatch plain black and gradually develop yellow banding as they grow. Adults display yellow striping across the abdomen, speckled olive green to grey wings, and reddish legs. Adults reach roughly 40 to 47 mm in length, with females generally larger than males.

Environment: A humid, well-ventilated enclosure with a deep substrate layer of coco fiber mixed with decaying hardwood leaf litter works well, with a touch of sphagnum moss to help retain moisture. Bark pieces and tight hiding spots are appreciated, as this species likes to pack itself into narrow crevices in dense groups.

Humidity: High, reflecting its cave origins near flowing water. Let the substrate dry out somewhat between mistings, then spray until moisture penetrates through all the layers rather than keeping it constantly soaked.

Diet: A detritivore in the wild, living on bat guano. In captivity it does well on a mix of fruits and vegetables such as carrot, potato, apple, or orange, along with fish flakes or another protein source and a calcium supplement.

Behavior: Unlike many roach feeder species, Simandoa conserfariam is not a poor climber. It runs quickly and can climb smooth surfaces with ease, nymphs included, so a Vaseline or mineral oil barrier at the top of the enclosure is essential to prevent escapes.