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What is a German Cockroach?

Emma Lloyd
Emma Lloyd

Despite its name, the German cockroach actually originates in Asia, and was also ubiquitous in Russia long before it made its way to the United States and other countries. This type of cockroach is a common household pest across the U.S. as well as most other countries in the Western world. The German cockroach is the most common pest species in apartments, houses, restaurants, and hotels alike.

The adult German cockroach is relatively small compared to other cockroach species, between 0.5 inches (1.25 cm) and 0.625 inches (1.6 cm). This species is tan or light brown, with distinctive dark-colored parallel line markings which extend from the head to the wings. They cannot fly, despite having a set of fully-developed wings.

Cockroach excrement is a highly allergenic substance which can cause symptoms, such as congestion and sneezing.
Cockroach excrement is a highly allergenic substance which can cause symptoms, such as congestion and sneezing.

German cockroaches prefer to live in a moist, warm environment, and as such tend to gravitate towards kitchens and bathrooms. These environments supply plenty of food as well as the preferred temperature and humidity. While this species prefers to dine on starches, sugar, and meat, they will feed off a wide variety of organic substances, including hair and shed skin cells.

The German cockroach is nocturnal and tends to emerge at night.
The German cockroach is nocturnal and tends to emerge at night.

Like other species, the German roach is nocturnal. During the day they hide in dark, warm, moist areas, and emerge at night to forage for sustenance. It is rare for German cockroaches to be seen during daylight hours. When roaches are spotted during the day, it usually means a heavy infestation is present, or the insects are subject to stressful living conditions such as lack of food.

The German cockroach is frequently dealt with by exterminators in the United States.
The German cockroach is frequently dealt with by exterminators in the United States.

The German cockroach secretes a substance with a characteristic odor, which can affect the taste of foods that the insects dine upon. Heavy infestations can cause an entire room to take on this oily, unpleasant smell. The roaches also carry disease-producing organisms which can cause gastroenteritis in humans. These organisms live on the bodies of the roaches and are deposited on any item the roach encounters, including food and cooking utensils. Cockroach excrement is a highly allergenic substance which can cause watery eyes, sneezing, nasal congestion, and asthma.

Cockroach excrement can cause asthma.
Cockroach excrement can cause asthma.

A number of strategies can be used to get rid of cockroaches. Effective German cockroach control requires first that a thorough survey is taken to determine where cockroaches are nesting, and where they exit and enter the nest location. Traps can then be placed in areas the roaches are known to frequent. For heavy infestations it’s usually most effective to have an exterminator deploy traps and chemical treatments. At the same time, it’s important to prevent further reinfestation by improving sanitation. Food should be stored in sealed, airtight containers, and surfaces should be kept clean.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a German Cockroach?

The German cockroach, scientifically known as Blattella germanica, is a small species of cockroach that is commonly found in human habitats. They are typically light brown to tan with two dark stripes on their back and can grow to about 13 to 16 mm in length. These pests are notorious for their rapid reproduction and resilience, making them a challenge to control once they infest an area.

How can you identify a German Cockroach infestation?

Signs of a German cockroach infestation include seeing the roaches themselves, often at night, finding their droppings that resemble black pepper or coffee grounds, and noticing a musty odor. Egg cases (oothecae) and shed skins may also be visible in areas like kitchens and bathrooms where they prefer to hide and breed.

What do German Cockroaches eat?

German cockroaches are omnivorous scavengers and will eat almost anything, including food scraps, soap, glue, and toothpaste. Their diet is not limited to food products; they can consume household items and even feed on each other if resources are scarce, demonstrating their adaptability and survival instincts.

Where are German Cockroaches commonly found?

German cockroaches prefer warm, humid environments close to food and water sources, which is why they are frequently found in residential and commercial kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. They can also hitchhike in luggage, furniture, and grocery items, spreading easily from one location to another.

Why are German Cockroaches considered pests?

German cockroaches are considered pests due to their ability to spread disease, contaminate food, and cause allergic reactions. They can carry pathogens on their bodies, which may lead to food poisoning and other illnesses. Their presence can also trigger asthma and allergies in sensitive individuals, especially children.

How can you prevent and control German Cockroach infestations?

Prevention and control of German cockroach infestations involve maintaining cleanliness, sealing entry points, reducing moisture, and proper food storage. Regular cleaning to remove food debris and spills, using airtight containers for food, and fixing leaks can deter cockroaches. If infestation occurs, baits, insecticides, and professional pest control services may be necessary for effective management.

Discussion Comments

dbuckley212

I knew of a cockroach infestation at a local bakery which caused a big ruckus in the community. These pests tend to gravitate toward such warm starchy climates, and can cause food product to become contaminated en masse if their numbers are not checked. It is quite disgusting to find a cockroach in purchased food, and can even lead to legal issues.

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    • Cockroach excrement is a highly allergenic substance which can cause symptoms, such as congestion and sneezing.
      By: CandyBox Images
      Cockroach excrement is a highly allergenic substance which can cause symptoms, such as congestion and sneezing.
    • The German cockroach is nocturnal and tends to emerge at night.
      By: Wild Geese
      The German cockroach is nocturnal and tends to emerge at night.
    • The German cockroach is frequently dealt with by exterminators in the United States.
      By: mertcan
      The German cockroach is frequently dealt with by exterminators in the United States.
    • Cockroach excrement can cause asthma.
      By: Ilike
      Cockroach excrement can cause asthma.