German Cockroach

Scientific Name: Blattella germanica

Order & Family: Blattodea: Ectobiidae

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

German Cockroach

Natural Habitat

Primarily indoor environments such as kitchens, bathrooms, and commercial food facilities; prefers warm, humid areas near food and water.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous scavenger; eats a wide variety of human food, starches, sweets, grease, and even non-food items like glue or soap.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and highly reproductive; females carry egg cases (oothecae) until shortly before hatching. They are fast runners and tend to congregate in cracks and crevices.

Risks & Benefits

Significant urban pest; vector for various pathogens (E. coli, Salmonella), allergens, and asthma triggers. They provide no significant benefits to human environments and can lead to infestations if not controlled.

Identified on: 6/7/2026