Brownbanded Roach
(Supella longipalpa)
Appearance
Brownbanded roaches are light brown to glossy dark brown in color. There are two pale, transverse stripes on the abdomen of the cockroach.
Size
Approximately 5/8-inch in length.
Behavior
Brownbanded cockroach females deposit egg capsules in clusters on furniture, draperies, wall decorations, shelving, and ceilings. The egg capsule contains 14 to 16 eggs, and a female produces 10 to 20 capsules in her lifetime. They feed on starchy materials, and will even eat non-food items such as nylon stockings. They are nocturnal, and while both cockroaches can jump, only males can fly.
Habitat
Brownbanded roaches prefer to hide in warm, dry areas. They can be found near the ceiling, behind wall decorations and loose wallpaper, in closets, beneath or inside of upholstered furniture, and in electrical appliances, such as refrigerator motor housings. They will be found in completely different areas of the home than the German cockroach.
Interesting Facts
Brownbanded cockroaches can foul food, damage wallpaper and books, eat glue from furniture, and produce an unpleasant odor. Some homeowners are allergic to these roaches also. They carry pathogens that can cause food poisoning, dysentery, and diarrhea.
Control
Do you live in South Florida and think that this pest may be invading your home? Hulett Environmental Services offers specialty pest control treatments designed to control and eliminate this pest!
