Bug Identifier
German Cockroach Nymph
Community identification

German Cockroach Nymph

Blattella germanica

Order & Family
Blattodea, Ectobiidae
Size
Nymphs vary in size, but mature nymphs are typically 6-10 mm long. Adults grow to about 11-15 mm.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Warm, humid indoor environments, especially kitchens and bathrooms, but can be found throughout a building. They prefer cracks and crevices near food, water, and harborage.

Diet & Feeding

Opportunistic omnivores, feeding on nearly anything organic, including food scraps, crumbs, pet food, grease, soap, glue, and even toothpaste.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal; they hide during the day and forage for food and water at night. Nymphs molt several times before reaching adulthood. They are agile and can climb smooth surfaces. German cockroaches are known for rapid reproduction and can quickly infest an area.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include spreading pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites) that can cause food poisoning, dysentery, and other diseases. They can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms due to allergens in their feces, saliva, and shed skin. They are considered significant household pests with no known benefits to humans in an indoor environment.