German Cockroach
Blattella germanica
- Order & Family
- Order: Blattodea; Family: Ectobiidae
- Size
- 1.1 to 1.6 cm (0.43 to 0.63 in)
Natural Habitat
The German cockroach is a highly adaptable domestic pest, commonly found living in close association with humans in warm, humid areas such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Diet & Feeding
They are omnivorous scavengers that will eat almost anything, including food scraps, grease, starch, glue, and even soap.
Behavior Patterns
A nocturnal species that is highly active at night, German cockroaches are known for their rapid reproduction. Females carry their egg cases (oothecae) until just before hatching. They are very fast runners but rarely fly.
Risks & Benefits
They represent a significant health risk to humans as they can carry and spread various pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli. Their droppings and shed skins are also known triggers for asthma and allergies in sensitive individuals.