
Community identification
Cockroach nymph (likely brown-banded cockroach)
Supella longipalpa
- Order & Family
- Blattodea; Ectobiidae
- Size
- Nymphs are typically 3–10 mm long; adults reach about 10–14 mm.
Natural Habitat
Warm, dry indoor areas such as kitchens, cabinets, wall voids, and appliances; it may also occur in sheltered outdoor locations.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous scavengers feeding on crumbs, starches, grease, dead insects, glue, and organic debris.
Behavior Patterns
Primarily nocturnal, fast-moving, and secretive; nymphs pass through several molts before adulthood. Brown-banded cockroaches often hide higher on walls, ceilings, and inside furniture rather than concentrating only near drains.
Risks & Benefits
Can contaminate food and surfaces and contribute to allergic reactions or asthma through feces, shed skins, and saliva. They provide minor scavenging and food-web value but are generally considered household pests.