MASA Pest Control Services

COCKROACHES

COCKROACH STRUCTURE

Cockroaches have been around for over 300 million years, with fossil records showing that ancient cockroaches looked quite similar to the ones we see today—oval-shaped with long legs and antennae. Modern cockroaches still require warm, moist environments to thrive. Globally, there are about 3,500 species of cockroaches. While most live in the wild, particularly in tropical regions, some species, known as urban cockroaches, prefer the stable, humid conditions found in human homes and workplaces.

Effective pest control involves applying pesticides at the right place and time, targeting where the insects are most likely to be. Understanding the similarities and differences between species is key to managing them effectively. Sharing this knowledge with clients boosts their confidence in the expertise of pest control professionals. By studying the habits, pest control applicators can implement better strategies to combat cockroach infestations. Cockroaches are generally similar in shape and appearance, with size being the primary distinguishing feature. They are nocturnal creatures, staying hidden in darkness whenever possible. If seen in well-lit or open areas, it usually indicates a significant infestation. Cockroaches prefer tight spaces where their bodies can touch surfaces above and below them. As they grow, they seek larger hiding spaces (harborage) to fit their increasing size. Cockroaches have a habit to be selective about their living spaces, and their infestations often do not spread evenly across rooms.

Five most common species of cockroaches in urban areas, listed by frequency, are:

  • American cockroach
  • German cockroach
  • Oriental cockroach
  • Brown-banded cockroach

COCKROACH SPECIES

COCK SPE1

American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana)

COCK SPE2

German Cockroaches (Blatella germanica)

COCK SPE3

Oriental Cockroach (Blatta orientalis)

COCK SPE4

Brown Banded Cockroach (Supella longipalpa)

Characteristics American Cockroach German Cockroach Oriental Cockroach Brown-banded Cockroach
Scientific Name
Periplaneta americana
Blattella germanica
Blatta orientalis
Supella longipalpa
Size
Large, about 35-50 mm (1.4-2 inches)
Small, about 12-15 mm (0.5-0.6 inches)
Medium, about 20-25 mm (0.8-1 inch)
Small, about 10-14 mm (0.4-0.6 inches)
Color
Reddish-brown with a yellowish pattern on the back of the head
Light brown to tan with two dark stripes on the pronotum
Dark brown to almost black
Light brown to tan with distinct pale bands across the wings and abdomen
Habitat
Prefers warm, moist areas like basements, sewers, and kitchens
Found mostly in kitchens, bathrooms, and food prep areas
Cool, damp places like basements, drains, and sewers
Prefers warmer, drier areas like ceilings, furniture, and upper walls
Reproduction
Female produces about 150 eggs in her lifetime
Female produces 30-40 eggs per egg case, laying up to 6 cases
Female produces around 200 eggs in her lifetime
Female produces about 18 eggs per egg case, and up to 14 cases
Wings
Both males and females have fully developed wings and can fly
Wings are present, but rarely used for flying
Males have wings that cover most of the body; females have shorter wings, and neither can fly
Both males and females have wings and are capable of short flights
Activity
Nocturnal, but can be seen during the day when disturbed
Primarily nocturnal, seen during the day if infestation is severe
Mostly active at night, slow-moving, and sluggish
Highly active at night, prefers hiding in small cracks and crevices
Lifespan
About 1 year
100-200 days
About 6 months to 1 year
About 200 days
Distinctive Traits
One of the largest domestic cockroaches
Most common urban cockroach, quick and prolific breeders
Often referred to as “water bugs” due to preference for damp areas
Known for its ability to infest high-up, dry areas

REFERENCES:

  • Bell, W.J., Roth, L.M., & Nalepa, C.A. (2007). Cockroaches: Ecology, Behavior, and Natural History. Johns Hopkins University Press.
  • Vršanský, P. (2000). Mesozoic Cockroaches (Insecta: Blattaria): Evolution, Diversity, and Morphology. Geodiversitas.
  • Roth, L.M. (2003). The Cockroach: Its Biology, Ecology, and Control. World Health Organization.
  • Bennett, G.W., Owens, J.M., & Corrigan, R.M. (1997). Truman’s Scientific Guide to Pest Control Operations (6th ed.). Purdue University.
  • Rust, M.K., Owens, J.M., & Reierson, D.A. (1995). Understanding and Controlling the German Cockroach. Oxford University Press.
  • Schal, C., & Hamilton, R.L. (1990). Integrated Suppression of Synanthropic Cockroaches. Annual Review of Entomology.
  • Koehler, P.G., & Patterson, R.S. (1984). Biology and Control of Cockroaches. University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) Extension.
  • Appel, A.G., & Smith, L.M. (1996). Handbook of Pest Control (9th ed.). Mallis, A.

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