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COCKROACH

Cockroaches are insects of the order Blattodea, which also includes termites. About 30 cockroach species out of 4,600 are associated with human habitats. About five species are well known as pests.

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DESCRIPTION

Cockroaches are flat, oval insects, typically measuring ½-inch to 2 inches long. In some species, the head is concealed from above by the large pronotum, a plate-like structure that also covers part of the thorax. Cockroaches have long, hair-like antennae and chewing mouth parts. Their flat body structure makes them ideally suited to harbour within tight cracks and crevices. Most adult males have wings and can fly; females often have short wings or none at all and are unable to fly. Nymphs are similar to adults, except for their smaller size and absence of wings. Eggs are enclosed in a leathery looking egg capsule called an ootheca.

COCKROACH LIFE CYCLE

Cockroaches undergo gradual metamorphosis, passing through three life stages:

Egg
Nymph
Adult.

Nymphs are similar in appearance to adults but smaller. Freshly moulted cockroaches are white, assuming their typical coloration within a few hours as their cuticle hardens. The life cycle from egg to adult is dependent upon environmental conditions and the specific cockroach species.

COCKROACH KEY HARBORAGE SITES

Cracks and crevices
Wall voids
Near food and water sources

Kitchens and bathrooms
Inside cupboards and cabinets
Around motor housings in appliances

In and around clutter (stacked boxes, cartons, cardboard, etc.)
Toilet

COCKROACH ANATOMY

COCKROACH COMMON SPECIES WITH SCIENTIFIC NAMES

American cockroach

(Periplaneta Americana)

German cockroach

(Blattella Germanica)

Oriental cockroach

(Blatta Orientalis)

Brown-banded cockroach

(Supella Longipalpa)

COCKROACH THREATS & DISEASES

Cockroaches are known to carry human pathogens, such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can result in human diseases, such as food poisoning or diarrhea. Occasionally, they will destroy fabric and paper products. In large numbers, cockroaches secrete a substance that can result in stains on surfaces they contact and produce disagreeable odours. Finally, products of cockroach infestations, including saliva, faeces and cast skins, are a source of allergens and can irritate allergies and asthma in people, especially children.