German Cockroach (likely a nymph)

Scientific Name: Blattella germanica

Order & Family: Order: Blattodea, Family: Ectobiidae

Size: Nymphs start very small (around 2-3 mm) and grow to adult size (11-15 mm or 1/2 to 5/8 inch).

German Cockroach (likely a nymph)

Natural Habitat

The German cockroach is a common indoor pest, preferring warm, humid environments close to food and water sources. They are frequently found in kitchens, bathrooms, restaurants, food processing plants, and other areas where food is prepared or stored.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous scavengers. They eat almost anything, including food crumbs, grease, decaying organic matter, starches, sugars, paper products, and even soap or glue.

Behavior Patterns

Cockroaches are primarily nocturnal and gregarious. They can run very quickly and are known for their resilience and ability to survive in various conditions. Females lay egg cases (oothecae) which contain multiple eggs.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: German cockroaches are significant pests that can transmit pathogens (bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa), contaminate food and surfaces, trigger allergies and asthma attacks, and create an unpleasant odor in heavily infested areas. Benefits: In natural ecosystems (not typically a role in urban indoor settings), some species of cockroaches contribute to decomposition processes.

Identified on: 8/28/2025