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Australian authorities have seized more than 100,000 live exotic cockroaches from a commercial breeder in Bathurst, New South Wales, marking the country’s largest-ever bust of illegal invertebrates. The haul, valued at up to $142,000, included Madagascar hissing cockroaches and dubia cockroaches, both of which are illegal to import, keep, breed, or sell in Australia due to biosecurity concerns, according to the Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water (DCCEEW).
Officials say the seized insects were likely destined for the pet trade, especially as reptile food. Dubia cockroaches are popular among reptile owners because of their size and nutritional value, but authorities warned these exotic species pose a significant threat to Australia’s unique ecosystem. The cockroaches have not undergone an environmental risk assessment, and their release could spread diseases and endanger native wildlife and agriculture.
A DCCEEW spokesperson said, "If you are found to possess, breed or trade exotic cockroaches such as dubia cockroaches and Madagascar hissing cockroaches, they will be seized and you could face penalties under federal law." No charges have yet been laid against the Bathurst breeder, but authorities stressed that investigations are ongoing and penalties can include significant fines.
The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development is handling the euthanasia and disposal of the seized cockroaches.
Authorities have urged reptile owners to use legal alternatives, such as crickets and native wood roaches, and have put pet businesses on notice.