Bug Identifier
German Cockroach
Community identification

German Cockroach

Blattella germanica

Order & Family
Order: Blattodea; Family: Ectobiidae
Size
1.1 to 1.6 cm (0.43 to 0.63 inches) long
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, particularly warm, damp areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous scavenger; eats almost anything including food scraps, grease, soap, glue, and leather.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and highly reproductive; females carry oothecae (egg cases) until just before hatching. They are known for hiding in narrow cracks and crevices during the day.

Risks & Benefits

Significant indoor pest and health risk; can transmit pathogens (like Salmonella and E. coli), contaminate food, and produce allergens that trigger asthma or allergic reactions. No ecosystem benefits in indoor settings.