Cockroach (likely German Cockroach or American Cockroach, though exact species is hard to determine from this image)
Scientific Name: Periplaneta americana (for American Cockroach) or Blattella germanica (for German Cockroach)
Order & Family: Order: Blattodea, Family: Blattidae (for American Cockroach) or Ectobiidae (for German Cockroach)
Size: Depending on the species: German Cockroach: 1/2 to 5/8 inch (1.3-1.6 cm); American Cockroach: 1.5 to 2.2 inches (3.5-5.5 cm). The specimen in the image appears to be on the smaller side, but without scale, it's hard to be definitive.
Natural Habitat
Cockroaches are commonly found in human dwellings, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and other areas where food, water, and harborage are available. They prefer warm, humid environments and can be found in cracks, crevices, under appliances, and within wall voids.
Diet & Feeding
Cockroaches are omnivores and scavengers. They eat almost anything, including food scraps, decaying organic matter, starches, sweets, grease, meat, paper, fabric, and even other insects.
Behavior Patterns
Cockroaches are primarily nocturnal and gregarious. They prefer to hide in dark, moist places during the day and come out at night to forage for food and water. They are known for their rapid reproduction rate and ability to adapt to various environments. If disturbed, they will scurry away quickly. Females lay egg cases (oothecae) containing multiple eggs.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Cockroaches can pose significant health risks. They are known to carry and spread bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasitic worms. They can contaminate food and surfaces, leading to diseases like salmonellosis, staphylococcus infections, and dysentery. Their droppings and shed skins can also trigger allergies and asthma attacks in sensitive individuals. Benefits: In nature, some species play a role as decomposers, breaking down organic matter. However, their presence in human environments is almost entirely a pest issue.
Identified on: 7/2/2025