German Cockroach

Scientific Name: Blattella germanica

Order & Family: Order: Blattodea, Family: Ectobiidae

Size: 1.1 to 1.6 cm (0.43 to 0.63 in) in length

German Cockroach

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, specifically warm, humid areas with access to food and water such as kitchens, bathrooms, and dishwashers.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous scavenger; feeds on a wide variety of human food, organic matter, soap, glue, and toothpaste.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and highly reproductive; they congregate in dark crevices and are often found near appliances that generate heat and moisture. They undergo hemimetabolous metamorphosis (egg, nymph, adult).

Risks & Benefits

Significant indoor pest. Risks include the spread of pathogens (Salmonella, E. coli), contamination of food, and triggers for asthma and allergies due to their droppings and shed skins. No significant benefits to humans.

Identified on: 2/13/2026