Pest Library

Characteristics

The Asian cockroach looks just like the German cockroach, but there is also some differences between them. For instance, the Asian cockroach’s wings are longer and narrower than the German cockroach. It is about 5/8 inch long and has a lighter brown color than the German cockroach. This cockroach also has two dark stripes behind their head that is similar to the German cockroach. The Asian cockroach is commonly found outdoors, and is known as a strong flier. The German cockroach on the other hand, prefers to stay indoors and is unable to fly.

Habitat

In their natural habitat, these roaches live in grassy moist areas, such as in gardens, leaf litter and under shrubs. They mostly become the predominant cockroach when they are mixed with other cockroach species. Although they are commonly found outdoors, these cockroaches can also go indoors, especially if they find some sources of light that will attract them.

Behavior

The Asian cockroachloves to fly, which is why it is commonly found outdoors. It can fly great distances away from its habitat, especially if it sees illumination. This cockroach can also stay indoors and may settle inside. These roaches may be seen in doorways and windows at night. Homeowners may find them, especially during dusk. Since they are attracted to the light, they may try to get inside a house just to get near the source of illumination. They may be seen on light surfaces, such as on lamp shades, lighted walls, or even on computer and television screens. Most of those who see these cockroaches might assume that they are going to attack them, but the truth is, they are just following the light.

Food

The Asian cockroach feeds on honeydew, flowers, seeds, and in agricultural crops like cabbage, roses, lettuce, strawberries, and the likes.

Life Cycle

This cockroach may easily be seen during the early spring and summer when the adult population becomes bigger. The nymph life cycle will begin when the female adult produces an egg capsule that contains 35 to 44 nymphs. Once the eggs are hatched and the nymphs come out, they will need 67 days to finally reach their third cycle, which is adulthood. Adult females will have at least 100 days to live while the male will just have 49 days. Through the lifetime of the female adult cockroach, she can produce four capsules or oothecas.

Other Information and Tips

While there have not been any reports that the Asian cockroaches have made damages to commercial crops because of the regular insecticide treatment done with them, but these cockroaches can still become a pest, especially when they are found indoors. These roaches are great flyers and insecticides may not work much with them. Placing baits can be more effective. If there are a large infestation seen, better place more baits in the most common locations where these roaches stay.

Photo by Agricultural Research Service, via Wikimedia Commons