Unlike us mammals and birds, who are endotherms (meaning we generate most of our own body heat internally through metabolic processes, like a personal furnace), roaches are ectotherms (sometimes colloquially called "cold-blooded"). This means their internal body temperature is largely dictated by their external environment.

When we talk about the health of our exotic pets – be they reptiles, amphibians, or even some arachnids and small mammals – the adage "you are what you eat" applies just as much to their prey as it does to them. Among feeder insects, the Discoid roach (Blaptica discoidalis) consistently earns high marks from herpetologists and dedicated hobbyists alike.

If you keep insectivorous pets (from bearded dragons to dart frogs) you've undoubtedly heard the term "gut-loading." It's the practice of feeding your feeder insects (crickets, roaches, mealworms, etc.) a highly nutritious diet shortly before offering them to your pet. You know you're supposed to do it, but have you ever paused to wonder about the science behind it?