Bug Identifier
American cockroach (likely)
Community identification

American cockroach (likely)

Periplaneta americana

Order & Family
Blattodea, Blattidae
Size
Adults are typically 30–50 mm long, including the wings.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Warm, humid places such as drains, sewers, basements, kitchens, and vehicle interiors. It often shelters in dark cracks and emerges at night.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous scavenger that feeds on food scraps, starches, grease, paper, decaying organic matter, and occasionally other insects.

Behavior Patterns

Mostly nocturnal, fast-running, and negatively phototactic, hiding when exposed to light. Females produce purse-shaped egg cases, and adults can live for many months.

Risks & Benefits

Can contaminate food and surfaces and carry allergens and microbes mechanically, potentially aggravating asthma. It contributes modestly to decomposition, but is generally considered a household pest.