Cockroaches are an excellent source of protein, with dry body mass containing approximately 70% crude protein. In addition to their nutritional value, they play a vital role in processing organic waste and livestock manure, transforming them into high-quality organic fertilizer that helps improve the ecological environment. Another valuable species, Poria, is widely used as an industrial raw material for extracting various enzymes and active compounds, which find applications in pharmaceuticals, food production, cosmetics, and environmental protection.
The internal structure of cockroaches is not supported by a skeleton but is instead composed of repeated body segments. Their external covering consists of a thin, pigmented chitin layer, with bristles present on each segment. The beak is typically slender and cylindrical, with a slightly pointed shape, and its length and thickness vary depending on the species. Aquatic cockroach species often lack pigmentation, and their body walls appear opaque, ranging from pale white or gray to pink or reddish due to hemoglobin in the capillaries. Some species, like those in the family Corniidae, contain oily granular substances in their epidermis, resulting in distinct body colors.
In terms of breeding and management, several species are suitable for rearing, including *E. aureus*, *E. militaris*, and *E. sinensis*. Among these, *A. euphorbia* is particularly effective as bait for *Chinese Rana sylvatica*. Varieties like "Daping No. 2" and "North Star No. 2," introduced from Japan in the late 1970s, have shown improved growth and reproduction rates under controlled conditions. These species can reproduce up to 2,000 to 3,000 times annually after domestication. They are easy to raise and adaptable but require regular purification and rejuvenation. They can be directly introduced into adult quail or transported with uncultured quail culture media to new farms.
Feed preparation is crucial for maximizing yield and reproductive success. The quality and composition of feed significantly influence growth and reproduction. For instance, using cow and sheep dung leads to higher cockroach production than feeding them with roughage and straw. Cockroaches primarily consume decomposed organic matter, provided it is non-toxic, has a pH between 6 and 7, low salinity, and rich in microbial breakdown products. Suitable feeds include livestock manure, agricultural by-products, distiller’s grains, sugar residue, sawdust, household waste, animal organs, weeds, fallen leaves, and spent mushroom substrates.
Despite their preference for decaying materials, cockroaches show selectivity toward certain organic substances. In the wild, they favor calcium- and protein-rich materials like litter. Many species are sensitive to sweet, sour, and savory flavors, so adding rotting fruits, vegetables, and poultry offal to the feed can boost their appetite. Nutritional balance is essential; a mix of feces (human, pig, sheep, rabbit, cattle, chicken), vegetable waste, sludge, straw, and leaves, properly fermented and processed, ensures optimal growth and reproduction.
Proper fermentation is key to successful feed preparation. Unfermented feed can lead to spoilage, gas buildup, and even death among the cockroaches. Feed should be cut into small pieces, sorted, and composted under controlled conditions. Stacking methods are commonly used, requiring adequate ventilation, moisture (60–80%), temperature (15–37°C), and balanced pH levels. The feed pile should be turned regularly to ensure uniform decomposition and prevent overheating or under-fermentation.
Young cockroaches hatch from cocoons and are delicate, requiring soft, nutrient-rich feed and careful environmental control. Temperature should be maintained between 20–35°C, and water should be misted rather than splashed. Protection from natural predators such as ants, spiders, and rats is also important.
For incubation, collected manure and leftover feed can be placed in containers and hatched at around 20°C. After hatching, the young are moved to warmer environments (25–33°C) with fresh feed. Escape risks are minimized when conditions like temperature, humidity, and feed availability are well managed.
Natural enemies such as birds, snakes, frogs, and rats pose threats, while disease prevention involves monitoring for parasites like nematodes and managing hygiene. Wintering is essential for maintaining populations, often involving indoor housing to regulate temperature and humidity.
Harvesting is done using fine mesh cages buried in troughs. At 20°C, cockroaches fill the cage in about a week. Separation can be achieved through light exposure or flooding.
Farming facilities include pots, boxes, and multi-layer beds. Boxes are easy to manage, with proper ventilation and drainage. Multi-level setups increase efficiency, especially in large-scale operations. Indoor farming requires good ventilation, temperature control, and lighting to prevent escape. Essential tools like thermometers, hygrometers, and sprayers help maintain ideal conditions.
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