Princisia vanwaerebecki is one of the most striking and sought‑after Madagascan hissing cockroaches, known for its bold contrast patterning and impressive size. Often referred to as the Tiger Hisser, this species displays rich black and chestnut banding across the abdomen, giving it a more dramatic appearance than the classic Gromphadorhina hissers. Males develop prominent horns on the pronotum and are more inclined to hiss and posture, while females are smoother, broader, and more reserved.
Behaviourally, Princisia is confident but not aggressive. They are excellent climbers, highly interactive, and display the characteristic hissing behaviour through modified spiracles—used for communication, bluffing, and territorial displays. Colonies grow steadily rather than explosively, making them manageable and rewarding for both display and breeding. Their slow, deliberate movements and impressive size make them a favourite for educational setups and naturalistic enclosures.
In captivity, they thrive in warm, moderately humid environments with plenty of vertical structure and secure hiding spaces. Their combination of striking appearance, calm temperament, and straightforward care requirements makes Princisia vanwaerebecki an excellent choice for keepers who enjoy the personality and presence of the larger Madagascan hissers.
Giant Black Tiger Hissing Cockroach (Princisia vanwaerebecki)
Size: Adult
Status: Captive Bred
Range: Madagascar
Temperature 25-28 C Humidity 60-70% Diet Fruit, Veg, Calcium Source, Beetle Jelly,
Decaying wood and leaf litter
Enclosure Semi Arboreal. Like lot of hiding places and
deep leaf litter substrate. Can be kept on
egg crates or wood.
30x30x30 cm would suit a small group of up to 10

