🪳 Dipteretrum hanstroem
 
Common name: Hanström’s Cockroach Origin: Southeast Asia
 
Overview: Dipteretrum hanstroem is a strikingly compact, glossy species prized for its deep mahogany‑to‑black coloration and calm temperament. Its rounded body and short wings give it a jewel‑like appearance, making it a favourite among collectors and feeder keepers alike.
 
Morphology: Adults feature a smooth, domed thorax with a rich reddish‑brown sheen that darkens toward the abdomen. The antennae are long and fine, often held forward as the roach explores. Nymphs are particularly vivid, showing a polished burgundy tone that fades as they mature.
 
Behaviour: A gentle, climbing species that prefers to stay close to the substrate. It thrives in leaf litter or bark hides, moving slowly and deliberately. Despite its understated nature, D. hanstroem is active at night and forms small, tidy colonies.
 
Care Requirements: Maintain moderate humidity (60–70%) and temperatures around 24–28 °C. Provide a substrate of decaying leaves and bark for burrowing, with occasional fresh fruit or vegetable slices alongside dry food.
 
Keeper’s Note: Elegant and easy to maintain, Dipteretrum hanstroem adds a touch of refinement to any roach collection—perfect for feeding or breeding projects where a calm behaviour is prized.