Cockroach (likely German Cockroach or American Cockroach nymph)
Scientific Name: Blattella germanica (for German Cockroach) or Periplaneta americana (for American Cockroach), or other species
Order & Family: Blattodea, Blattidae or Ectobiidae
Size: (Adults) 1/2 to 2 inches (1.3 to 5 cm) depending on the species. The image appears to show a smaller nymph, likely around 1/8 to 1/2 inch (0.3 cm to 1.3 cm).
Natural Habitat
Warm, humid, dark environments. Commonly found indoors in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and commercial establishments, as well as outdoors in sewers and drains for some species.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous scavengers; feed on almost anything, including human food, decaying organic matter, glue, paper, and fabrics.
Behavior Patterns
Flies or crawls rapidly, especially when disturbed. Often attracted to lights at night. Females lay eggs in crevices and under loose bark.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Can carry and spread bacteria (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli), viruses, fungi, and parasitic worms. Their droppings and shed skin can trigger allergies and asthma in sensitive individuals. Can contaminate food and surfaces. Not known for benefits to humans beyond being a food source for some predators in the natural ecosystem.
Identified on: 8/31/2025