Bug Identifier
American cockroach (likely)
Community identification

American cockroach (likely)

Periplaneta americana

Order & Family
Blattodea; Blattidae
Size
Adults typically measure 28–44 mm (1.1–1.7 in) long.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Warm, humid environments such as sewers, basements, drains, boiler rooms, and buildings. It may also live outdoors in leaf litter and mulch in warm climates.

Diet & Feeding

An omnivorous scavenger feeding on food scraps, organic waste, glue, paper, and other materials. It can survive on very limited food and water.

Behavior Patterns

Mostly nocturnal, fast-running, and capable of climbing and short-distance gliding or flying. Females produce egg cases, and nymphs develop through several molts.

Risks & Benefits

It can contaminate food and surfaces and mechanically spread bacteria, fungi, and allergens that may aggravate asthma. It contributes modestly to decomposition outdoors but is generally considered a major household pest.