Australian authorities have seized more than 100,000 illegal exotic cockroaches from a breeder in New South Wales in what officials describe as the country’s largest illegal invertebrate bust. The haul, valued at around AU$200,000, included Madagascar hissing cockroaches and dubia cockroaches, species banned from import, breeding, and sale in Australia. Authorities warn that exotic insects can spread disease and pose risks to native wildlife and agriculture. The cockroaches, often used as food for pet reptiles, will be destroyed. Officials have also warned pet owners and businesses that possessing or trading such species could lead to legal penalties.
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