German Cockroach (nymph)

Natural Habitat

Highly adaptable, but commonly found in warm, humid, and dark environments, particularly indoors. They prefer kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and areas near food and water sources. They often hide in cracks, crevices, behind appliances, and inside walls.

Diet & Feeding

Opportunistic omnivores, feeding on almost anything organic, including human food, pet food, grease, crumbs, glue, soap, and even other cockroaches when resources are scarce. They prefer starchy and sugary foods.

Behavior Patterns

Cockroaches are primarily nocturnal and gregarious. They hide in dark, sheltered places during the day and forage for food at night. They are known for their rapid reproduction rate and can infest homes quickly. They often leave behind fecal droppings (frequently mistaken for coffee grounds or black pepper) and shed skins.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: German cockroaches are significant pests. They can spread various pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasitic worms) that cause diseases like salmonellosis, dysentery, E. coli infection, and food poisoning by contaminating food preparation surfaces and food. Their droppings and shed skins can trigger allergic reactions and exacerbate asthma, especially in children. Benefits: Minimal direct benefits to humans, though they can be a food source for other insects and animals in natural ecosystems.

Identified on: 7/2/2025