Pest Library

Characteristics

The adult German cockroaches are tan to light brown in color. They have two dark parallel stripes that run behind their head to their wings. They are 1/2 inch to 5/8 inch long, have six legs, an oval shape, and have two antennas. Although these cockroaches have wings but they do not use their wings to fly. Nymphs have the same characteristics like the adult just that they are smaller and with no wings.

Habitat

These cockroaches can easily be found in places where humans live and may have a difficult time surviving without us. They do not like the cold weather and may have a difficult time breeding in places where the cold temperatures rise. These pests can be found in damp locations, such as garbage cans, sewers, commercial and residential kitchens, and bathrooms. Their survival and population are attributed to the accessibility of their food, water and their chosen harborage.

Behavior

Just like any other types of cockroaches, their long survival has been attributed to their great skill in scavenging, and their preference to find moist structures. They are nocturnal so you may not be able to see them during the day. However, instances where you find cockroaches during the day may indicate an infestation since they may already be overcrowded in their harborage, which may force them to stay out of their comfort zone.

Another known behavior of these roaches is that they secrete an odorous compound that can even affect the food that they made contact with. These odorous compound can also indicate an infestation, especially when the smell becomes obvious, which could indicate that their population are growing.

Food

These roaches can eat anything they think they can consume, from sweets, meats, gravies, breads to the glue of book bindings, toothpaste, and soap. This insect can survive without food for a month and can live without moisture for two weeks.

Life Cycle

The German cockroach goes to three metamorphosis stages, first as an egg, then a nymph, and at last as an adult. A female cockroach just needs to mate once, and then she can produce a capsule or an ootheca filled with 30 to 48 eggs. During her lifetime, this female can create four to eight egg capsules, which makes them difficult to control because they can create an infestation. Nymphs commonly hatch while the capsule is still being carried by the female. After the eggs become nymphs, they will need at least 60 days, depending on the availability of food and water, and then they will become an adult.

Other Information and Tips

Cockroaches have been known as a disgusting creature because of how they defile food, and the way they live their lives. They are also known for creating outbreaks, illnesses, and allergic reactions as they can easily carry germs through their legs and bodies. With so many bad issues regarding cockroaches, it is just important to get rid of them before an infestation starts.

Eliminating them completely in a home can be difficult since these creatures are always attracted to the food, water and moisture homes provide plus the German cockroach are known for their ability to reproduce quickly than any other type of roaches. However, there are ways to control and stop these pests from entering homes.

Here are just some of them:
• Keep your kitchen clean and dry
• Always have the bathroom as clean and dry as possible
• Do not leave any dishes unwashed on the sink
• Vacuum the floors every day
• Empty and clean pet food bowls every day
• Take the trash out every day
• Food should always be in tightly sealed containers