Are Dubia Roaches Worth It | Australia Feeder Guide
Dubia roaches are quickly becoming one of the most popular feeder insects in Australia, but many reptile keepers still ask the same question — are they actually worth it?
This guide breaks down the real value of dubia roaches, including cost, care, nutrition, and long-term practicality. For a full overview of feeder insects, see our complete guide to feeder insects in Australia.
Quick answer: For most reptile keepers, dubia roaches are worth it due to their high nutrition, low maintenance, and long lifespan compared to other feeders.
Nutritional Value
One of the biggest advantages of dubia roaches is their nutritional profile.
- High protein content
- More balanced calcium to phosphorus ratio
- Good moisture content
- Low Fat content
This makes them suitable as a staple feeder for many reptiles, including bearded dragons, geckos, monitors, and even a great treat for poultry and many bird species.
For some extra info, see: Why Dubia Roaches Are the Best Feeder Insect
Cost vs Long-Term Value
Dubia roaches are often more expensive upfront compared to crickets or woodies, but this doesn’t tell the full story.
- They have lower mortality rates - meaning less waste
- Long lifespan allows buying in bulk and storing longer
- Hardier in transport
- Grow much larger - meaning less are needed
Over time, many keepers find dubia roaches more cost-effective despite the higher initial price.
It's also worth noting Dubia roaches breed slower then both crickets and woodies. Meaning they require more labour, power and space to produce, then crickets and woodies. Naturally leading to higher costs on the production side.
The larger sizes of dubia also cost more to ship due to the higher weight and larger volume per x quantity of roaches.
For more direct comparisons, see: Feeder Insect Cost Comparison Australia
Ease of Care
Dubia roaches are one of the easiest feeder insects to maintain.
- Low smell when kept clean
- Minimal noise compared to crickets
- Less prone to sudden die-offs
- Can't climb smooth surfaces and don't jump
They ideally like stable warmth but otherwise need very little maintenance.
For more in-depth info, see: Dubia Roach Care Guide
Longevity and Storage
Unlike crickets, dubia roaches can live for months when kept correctly.
- larger sizes can still live months
- Nymphs grow steadily over time
- Can be stored in bulk without high losses
This makes them ideal for reptile keepers who prefer fewer, larger insect stock-ups.
Potential Downsides
While dubia roaches offer many benefits, they may not be ideal for everyone.
Some reptiles may prefer more active feeders like crickets. Though they definitely stand out as a better, easier option then woodies.
For a comparison to crickets, see: Dubia Roaches vs Crickets Which Is Better
Final Verdict
For most reptile keepers in Australia, dubia roaches are absolutely worth it.
Their combination of nutrition, longevity, and ease of care makes them one of the most reliable feeder insects available.
While a varied diet is still optimal, they are an excellent foundation for a balanced reptile diet.
Here at Reptifauna, we don't currently produce woodies or Crickets, but we do ship Dubia Roaches Australia wide. You can find more information below:
