Dubia roaches are a very popular feeder insect for owners of all kinds of reptiles. They have a lot of benefits, from their nutritional value to how easy they are to keep in colonies.
But for reptile lovers in Florida, it’s not that easy. Florida has outlawed dubia roaches statewide. But why? And what options does that leave you with?
In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about the dubia roach debacle. We’ll also offer some alternatives so you can get your reptile pets everything they need.
Dubia roaches are fast becoming one of the most popular feeder insects for reptile, amphibian, and invertebrate keepers. Their high protein content, easy care requirements and docile nature make them an excellent staple feeder. However, due to concerns over invasive species, dubia roaches are illegal in certain parts of the United States. Read on for a complete state-by-state guide to dubia legality.
Why Are Dubias Restricted?
The main reason dubia roaches are banned in some states is fear over their potential to become an invasive species. Native to Central and South America, these prolific breeders could establish themselves and disrupt local ecosystems if they escaped captivity. This could harm native insect populations, agriculture, and human health. States with warm, humid climates are especially at risk.
While dubia roaches pose little threat indoors, officials worry about accidental releases establishing wild populations. Restrictions aim to prevent this, though they complicate dubia ownership for reptile enthusiasts.
Where Are Dubias Currently Illegal?
As of 2023, dubia roaches are illegal in these states:
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Florida Dubias are banned statewide Florida’s climate is ideal for them to flourish if released
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Hawaii: Also prohibits dubias over invasive species concerns. Hawaii’s isolation makes it very vulnerable.
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Georgia: Shares Florida’s warm, humid climate. Roach colonies could thrive if established.
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Alabama: Has similar ecology and regulations to Florida and Georgia.
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Louisiana: Another Gulf state banning dubias to protect local species.
Note: Laws can change, so verify your state’s regulations before obtaining dubias. Most bans carry penalties like fines for violations.
Are Permits Available?
For reptile keepers in restricted states, permits to own dubia roaches are generally unavailable. The bans are designed to completely prevent dubias from entering these ecologically sensitive areas.
However, a few limited exceptions exist. For example, zoos or research facilities may qualify for special permits, but these are not feasible for personal reptile collections. Always check with your state Department of Agriculture for specifics.
Recommended Alternatives
Luckily, dubia roaches are not the only nutritious feeder option out there. Consider these excellent dubia alternatives:
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Discoid Roaches: Nearly identical care and nutrition to dubias. Can’t climb smooth surfaces. Legal in all states.
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Lateralis/Turkistan Roaches: Quick growing and prolific. Contains more protein than dubias.
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Black Soldier Fly Larvae: High in calcium and easy to raise. Great for outdoor enclosures.
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Hornworms: Soft-bodied and packed with moisture. Come in small and large sizes.
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Silkworms: Extremely high in protein and calcium. Slower-moving than some feeders.
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Mealworms/Superworms: Classic feeders that are easy to buy in bulk. Best as supplements, not staples.
With a little creativity, keepers in any state can find nutritious, legal options for their beloved pets. Prioritize variety for a balanced diet.
Responsible Ownership
Even in states where legal, all keepers must prevent dubia escapes. Use secure, smooth-sided enclosures with tight lids. Never release roaches or discard enclosures outside. Freezing is the most humane culling method.
Carefully following regulations protects native species while letting hobbyists provide proper reptile care. With some adjustments, banned states can offer alternatives that are just as nutritious.
FAQ on Dubia Roach Legality
Can I own dubias if I get a permit?
Unfortunately, permits are not available for personal use in most restricted states. Only zoos or researchers may qualify.
What are the penalties for illegal dubias?
Penalties vary by state but often include confiscation, fines of $500 or more, and even criminal charges in some cases.
Are dubias dangerous if released?
They are not venomous or aggressive, but could disrupt ecosystems and agriculture if they established wild populations.
Can dubias survive outside in most of the US?
No, they require very warm (80°F+), humid conditions to thrive. They likely couldn’t survive outdoors in most states.
Do other roaches make good alternatives?
Yes, discoid, Turkistan, and lateralis roaches share many benefits. Always research state laws before obtaining any species.
How often do dubia laws change?
Occasionally, but major changes are uncommon. Still, verify regulations annually and before transporting dubias across state lines.
Can I order dubias online if they’re illegal in my state?
No, it is illegal to ship dubias to states where they are prohibited. Sellers will verify your location to comply with laws.
What if a few dubias escape from my enclosure?
Isolate and eliminate any escapees immediately. Monitor for additional escapes and make adjustments to prevent recurrences.
Can zoos or universities keep dubias in banned states?
Yes, with special permits. But these are restrictive and do not allow most individuals to own dubias in these states.
Are there exceptions for educational use?
Rarely. Most states offer no exemptions except for accredited zoos and research facilities. Check specific regulations.
The Bottom Line
While dubia roach restrictions aim to protect native ecosystems, responsible keepers should have no issues providing proper reptile care. With planning and an understanding of state laws, pet owners can offer nutritious, legal feeder options.
Always prioritize cage security, humane culling practices, and proper disposal. Following regulations shows respect for nature while letting hobbyists enjoy their pets. With the right information and alternatives, dubia bans don’t have to limit your ability to care for reptiles and amphibians.
What Are Some Alternatives For Dubia Roaches?
In short, dubias:
- Are nutritious for reptiles
- Are really bad at climbing
- Have a long maturation period
- Don’t need much to survive
This makes them ideal if you’re going to have a dubia colony. Particularly, because they mature slowly, they’re great if you have reptiles of multiple sizes. When you go to pick out a few roaches to feed your pets, you’ll always have the right size feeder.
So what can we find that checks the same boxes?
Most similar to the dubia, discoid roaches check all of the same boxes. First, let’s check out their nutritional facts.
- Moisture: 66%
- Protein: 20%
- Fat: 7%
- Fiber: 3%
- Ash: 1%
- Calcium to Phosphorus Ratio: 1:3
Comparing to dubia, discoid roaches have almost the exact same nutritional value. They’re both high in protein and low in fat, making them a good everyday feeder for lizards like bearded dragons.
Discoid roaches have one major benefit over dubias – they do not cause respiratory problems like dubias. The frass from the dubias will become immediately airborne, and can cause allergies. Discoids do not have the same issue, and generally do not cause allergenic reactions.
Both dubia and discoid roaches could benefit from added fiber and calcium, but this can be solved through gut loading and/or dusting. Overall, discoid roaches are very healthy.
Furthermore, discoids are just as easy to keep and breed in captivity as dubia roaches. They can’t climb walls, and though they have wings, they don’t fly. They also mature in a similar timeframe as dubia roaches. Best of all, discoid roaches are legal in all 50 states!
Dubia Roaches in Florida – No Dice!
So what exactly is the deal with dubia roaches in Florida? The state has punished anyone buying or selling dubia in the state harshly in the past [https://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2011/01/30/Florida-man-busted-over-roaches/33571296403938/ ], with hefty fines and even jail time. What gives?
Dubia roaches are incredibly easy to keep in captivity. Their inability to climb walls and general laziness makes it very easy to keep them in one place. And most places in the US, if they were to escape, the climate would almost definitely kill them.
But not in Florida. Florida’s climate is almost perfect for roaches to survive and reproduce. This has worried state officials for a while. Because, if by some accident, a colony of dubia roaches were allowed to escape into the environment, it could be disastrous.
Here’s why. Dubia roaches, like most insects, are capable of reproducing very quickly. If released into an environment where they could reproduce, they would quickly spread and become invasive.
While it’s not clear what effects that might have in the long term, invasive species are never good. They often disrupt food chains, become crop pests, and in some cases, spread disease. Because we can’t predict what would happen if wild dubia roaches began spreading across Florida, the smart move is to prevent it from happening.
Hence, it’s illegal to bring dubia roaches into the state. But where does that leave you, the reptile owner in need of easy feeder insects? Let’s talk about some alternatives to dubia.