Cockroach Nymph
Scientific Name: Various species in the order Blattodea (e.g., Blattella germanica, Periplaneta americana)
Order & Family: Order: Blattodea, Family: Blattoidea, Blattidae, or Ectobiidae (depending on species)
Size: Varies by species; generally, nymphs are much smaller than adults, ranging from a few millimeters (e.g., German cockroach nymph) to over a centimeter (e.g., American cockroach nymph).
Natural Habitat
Nymphs typically inhabit similar environments to adult cockroaches, often found indoors in warm, humid, and dark places such as kitchens, bathrooms, basements, wall voids, and behind appliances. They can also be found outdoors in leaf litter and under logs, depending on the species.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous scavengers. They feed on almost anything, including food scraps, crumbs, grease, decaying organic matter, starchy materials, sugary substances, pet food, and even non-food items like glue, paper, and soap.
Behavior Patterns
Cockroach nymphs undergo gradual metamorphosis, molting several times before reaching adulthood. They are primarily nocturnal, hiding during the day and emerging at night to feed. They are typically gregarious, living in groups, and are very skittish, scattering when disturbed. Their movement is fast, and they are adept at finding small cracks and crevices for shelter.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Cockroaches are considered pests. They can contaminate food and surfaces with bacteria (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli) and other pathogens picked up from sewage and decaying matter, leading to food poisoning and other illnesses. Their droppings, shed skins, and saliva can trigger allergies and asthma attacks, especially in children. In severe infestations, they can also cause an unpleasant odor. Benefits: In natural ecosystems, some species play a role as decomposers, breaking down organic material.
Identified on: 9/19/2025