This Panesthia is a somewhat difficult to rear roach because it will not eat dog food, fruits, vegetation, etc. The only food accepted is rotten wood and dead leaves, and they grow very slowly. The Forest roach has no ability to climb glass and, if given the chance, will stay buried all the time. The nymphs of this gorgeous species are very energetic and have four orange spots from birth to subadult. Although mainly a wood feeder this species feeds well on dry dog food and some fruits.
Females are live bearing and neither adults nor nymphs can climb completely smooth surfaces.
Most roaches with much color are half an inch or less. Orange head roaches also have some of the neater looking nymphs which are a deep maroon color and like to spend their lives, if possible, under the substrate. E.prosticus are among the more prolific of the pet roaches and with care will outgrow a large rearing container quickly. It is necessary to keep a bit of available protein on hand, such as dog food, to reduce wing biting. They are bad wing biters.