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) in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Primarily indoor pests, found in warm, humid environments close to food and water sources. Common in kitchens, bathrooms, restaurants, food processing plants, and residential buildings.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous scavengers; they will eat almost anything, including food crumbs, grease, decaying matter, soap, glue, and even other cockroaches when food is scarce.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal; active at night, foraging for food and water. They are known for their rapid reproduction rate, with females producing several egg cases (oothecae) in their lifetime. They are very adept at hiding in small cracks and crevices. They are highly social insects that live in communal groups.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include carrying and spreading bacteria (e.g., E. coli, Salmonella), allergens that can trigger asthma attacks, and contaminating food surfaces. They are not known to provide significant benefits to humans or the ecosystem in their typical habitats.