German Roach
(Blatella germanica)
Appearance
German roaches are brown to dark brown in color. They have two distinct parallel bands running the length of their pronotum. The sexes can be distinguished by the more slender body of the male.
Size
Adults are approximately ½-inch in length.
Behavior
German roaches are the most widespread of all cockroaches in the United States. They complete their lifecycle in approximately 100 days, and they breed continuously (with many overlapping generations present at any one time). Under ideal conditions, it has been estimated that one female German roach can be the cause of a population explosion of over 1 million more German roaches.
Habitat
German roaches are commonly found in and around apartments, homes, supermarkets, and restaurants. They prefer areas near food, moisture, and warmth. The major factor limiting German cockroaches survival appears to be cold temperatures. Studies have shown that German cockroaches are unable to colonize and survive in homes without central heating in northern climates. However, in the warmer temperatures of South Florida this roach flourishes.
Interesting Facts
German roaches often litter food or food products with their feces and defensive secretions. They also physically transport and often harbor pathogenic organisms, and in some cases may cause severe allergic reactions. In addition, some scientists suggest that German cockroach infestations may cause human psychological stress and that the stigma associated with infestations alters human behavior.
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!
