Madagascar hissing cockroaches have a surprising talent: they can adjust the size of their testicles based on their needs. These insects have two options to attract females: become fierce fighters with large horns or great breeders by developing bigger testicles.
Their famous hiss, used to either intimidate rivals or attract mates, changes depending on the situation. When fighting is necessary, males with large horns battle for access to females. But those who prefer to focus on reproduction develop larger testicles to produce more sperm, increasing their chances of fertilization.
This astonishing ability to choose between strength and fertility once again proves that cockroaches are true masters of adaptation. According to researchers, this energy investment between horns and testicles allows them to adapt to circumstances and maximize their reproductive success.
Source: National Geographic, Erika Engelhaupt, September 20, 2024.
