Ologies with Alie Ward Bonus Episode: COCKROACH MILK with Joshua Benoit and Sinead English
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Oct 20, 2025 In this intriguing discussion, Dr. Joshua Benoit, a biological sciences professor at the University of Cincinnati, and Dr. Sinead English delve into the fascinating world of cockroach milk. They share how this surprisingly nutritious substance is produced by the unique cockroach species Diploptera punctata, which gives live birth and nurses its young. The researchers explore the evolution of viviparity in insects, the composition and extraction of cockroach milk, and the potential for it to become a new food source—if only it could be tasted!
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Live Birth Evolved Often In Insects
- Viviparity (live birth) evolved multiple times in insects and is more common than many expect.
- Diploptera punctata and tsetse flies are key models to study insect pregnancy and lactation.
The Pacific Beetle Roach Is Unique
- Diploptera punctata is the only truly viviparous cockroach species known.
- It resembles a beetle and is found in tropical and subtropical regions like Fiji and Hawaii.
Pregnancy And Nursing Occur Together
- In these insects, pregnancy and milk production often occur simultaneously, unlike mammals.
- Cockroaches nurse embryos inside a brood sack that functions like a pseudoplacenta.