Cockroaches are an excellent source of protein, with dry body mass containing up to 70% crude protein. In addition to their nutritional value, they play a vital role in processing organic waste and livestock manure, converting these materials into high-quality organic fertilizer that improves the ecological environment. Another valuable species, Poria, is also widely used as an industrial raw material. It can be used to extract various enzymes and active substances from Chinese wolfberry, which are then applied in pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, and environmental protection industries.
The internal structure of cockroaches is organized according to body segments, but they lack a skeletal system. Instead, their bodies are covered by a thin, pigmented chitin layer. They have bristles on their bodies, and their beak is typically slender and cylindrical, with a slightly pointed head and tail. The size and shape of the beak vary significantly depending on the species.
Aquatic cockroach walls are generally free of pigments and appear opaque, often pale white or gray, sometimes pink or reddish due to the presence of hemoglobin in their capillaries. For instance, members of the Corniidae family may contain oily granular substances in their epidermis, resulting in different body colors.
Breeding and management involve selecting suitable species such as *E. aureus*, *E. militaris*, and *E. sinensis*. Among them, *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 significant improvements in growth and reproduction after domestication. These breeds can reproduce up to 2000–3000 times annually under optimal conditions. They are easy to raise but require regular purification and rejuvenation during breeding. They can be directly introduced into adult quails, and uncultured quail cultures can also be transported to new farms.
Feed preparation is crucial for increasing yield and productivity. The quality and quantity of feed directly affect reproduction and growth. For example, feeding clams with cow and sheep dung results in several times more cockroaches compared to using roughage and straw. Cockroaches primarily consume decomposed organic matter that is non-toxic, has a pH between 6 and 7, and low salinity. Suitable feeds include livestock manure, agricultural byproducts, distiller’s grains, sugar residue, sawdust, household waste, animal organs, weeds, fallen leaves, and spent mushroom substrate.
Although they eat decaying organic matter, cockroaches show some selectivity. Under natural conditions, they prefer materials rich in calcium and protein, such as litter. Many species are sensitive to sweet, sour, and savory tastes, so adding rotting fruits, vegetables, poultry organs, and water from washing animals can increase their appetite.
Feed must be carefully balanced to ensure proper nutrition for rapid growth and reproduction. A common mix includes 60% feces (human, pig, sheep, rabbit, cattle, horse, chicken) and 40% vegetable waste, sludge, straw, and leaves, all fermented and composted. Unfermented feed can cause fermentation, leading to high temperatures and harmful gases like ammonia and methane, which can kill the cockroaches.
Feed preparation involves basic and supplementary feeds. Basic feed is essential for long-term habitation, while supplementary feed enhances nutrition. All materials should be processed—cut into small pieces for faster decomposition. Organic waste must be screened to remove inorganic debris before crushing.
For efficient fermentation, the feed pile should maintain proper ventilation, moisture (60–80%), nutrients, temperature (15–37°C), and pH. The stacking method involves alternating layers of forage and manure, watering until moisture is achieved, and turning the pile regularly. After two months, the feed is fully decomposed and ready for use.
Nutrient composition is critical for optimal cockroach growth. Different feeds provide varying levels of protein and fat, affecting growth and reproduction. Using mixed feeds ensures better results than single-feed diets.
Young cockroaches are delicate and require special care. They need soft, nutritious feed and a clean, moist environment. Temperature should be maintained between 20–35°C, and they must be protected from predators like ants, spiders, and rats.
Incubation involves collecting manure and leftover feed in containers. The ideal hatching temperature is around 20°C, with hatchlings moved to 25–33°C for development. Escape can occur if conditions are poor, so maintaining proper temperature, humidity, and feed supply is essential.
Natural enemies include birds, snakes, frogs, rats, and ants. Disease prevention focuses on controlling parasites like nematodes and ensuring good hygiene.
Wintering is important for continuous breeding. Quails can be moved to sheds to maintain temperature and humidity. Harvesting involves placing feed in cages and collecting cockroaches after a week. Separation can be done using light or water flooding.
Farming methods include pot, box, and basket systems. These allow easy management, especially for small-scale operations. For larger farms, multi-layer breeding beds maximize space and efficiency. Proper facilities, including ventilation, temperature control, and monitoring tools, are essential for successful cockroach farming.
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