Henschoutedenia flexivitta, commonly known as the giant lobster cockroach or large cinereous cockroach, is a large species of cockroach belonging to the family Blaberidae. It is taxonomically distinct from the regular, smaller lobster cockroach (Nauphoeta cinerea), appearing as a much larger version with roughly 1.5 times the body mass.
 
Key Characteristics
Physical Profile: They are broad, robust insects with a mottled brown and cinereous (ash-grey) coloration. They look visually similar to regular lobster roaches but are significantly larger.
Behavior: This species is known for its agility and erratic, "spastic" movements, making them a challenge to handle. Unlike Madagascar hissing cockroaches that expel air to hiss, Henschoutedenia flexivitta produces sound through stridulation—rubbing their wings against their abdomen to make a distinct, audible chirping noise.
Native Habitat: They are native to tropical Africa, with documented distributions across Ghana, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, the Republic of the Congo, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Angola.
 
Captivity & Care
Because of their size and high reproductive output, they are occasionally kept as unique exotic pets or bred in the invertebrate hobby.
Enclosure: They require a secure tank with a substrate like coconut fiber or sphagnum peat moss to retain humidity. Egg crates are typically added to provide climbing surfaces and hiding spots.
Diet: They are highly opportunistic omnivores. In captivity, they feed readily on insect jelly cups, fresh fruits, vegetables, and high-protein options like fish food pellets or dog kibble.