Description
The Therea bernhardti, commonly known as Domino Roach, is one of the long-time hobby staple beauty roaches and a must-have for any roach enthusiast. Originating from India, this stunning species is prized for its striking black and white coloration that resembles domino tiles. The Domino Roach reproduces very well once established, making it a rewarding species for dedicated keepers who appreciate classic beauty roaches with fascinating care requirements.
This species has unique characteristics that keepers should be aware of. Nymphs are notorious slow growers, taking up to a year to reach maturity. The initial colony may have trouble with male-female ratios at adulthood, so we recommend starting with as many individuals as possible to give the best chances of having both sexes mature at the same time. This species is a substrate swimmer and requires 2-3 inches of loose substrate for natural behavior. Adults can climb, so a gasket bin or secure container is essential. Known for its stunning domino-like coloration, slow nymph development, substrate swimming behavior, and rewarding breeding once established, the Domino Roach is a prized specimen for keepers who appreciate classic beauty roaches with unique care requirements.
Key Features:
- Classic hobby staple beauty roach
- Stunning black and white domino-like coloration
- Originates from India
- Reproduces very well once established
- Substrate swimmer requiring loose substrate
- Slow-growing nymphs (up to a year to maturity)
- Start with larger colonies for best breeding success
- Adults can climb—requires secure enclosure
- Rewarding species for dedicated keepers
- Long-time hobby favorite
- Intermediate to advanced care level
- Live arrival guarantee with safe, discreet shipping
Housing: Use a gasket bin or secure container with a tight-fitting lid, as adults can climb. Provide 2-3 inches of loose substrate such as coconut fiber, as these are substrate swimmers and will spend time moving through the substrate. Include egg crate, bark pieces, or cork bark for additional hiding places and surface area. Ensure adequate ventilation while maintaining security.
Temperature: Room temperature to warm temperatures work well for breeding. Maintain stable, warm conditions to support colony growth and encourage breeding once the colony is established.
Humidity: Moderate humidity levels are suitable. Mist the enclosure as needed to maintain appropriate moisture in the substrate without creating overly wet conditions.
Diet: Dog/cat/fish food or similar protein-based foods work as the staple diet. Fruits and vegetables can be offered as supplemental food to provide variety and nutrition.
Breeding Notes: Nymphs are notorious slow growers and can take up to a year to reach maturity. Initial colonies may experience challenges with male-female ratios at adulthood. We strongly recommend starting with as many individuals as possible to maximize the chances of having both sexes mature at the same time, which is critical for successful breeding. Once established, this species reproduces very well and becomes a rewarding, self-sustaining colony.
Maintenance: This species requires intermediate to advanced care due to slow nymph development and specific substrate requirements. Patient keepers will be rewarded with a thriving colony of one of the hobby's most beautiful and classic roach species.
Perfect for keepers seeking a classic beauty roach with stunning coloration and rewarding breeding characteristics. The Domino Roach is a long-time hobby staple that belongs in every serious roach collection. Each culture is carefully prepared and comes with comprehensive care information to ensure long-term success with this extraordinary and visually striking species.
Photo credit to Tristan Shanahan
