German Cockroaches

Scientific Name: Blattella germanica

Fun Fact: Cockroaches can live for weeks after having their head cut off

Lifespan: 1 – 2 years

Description

The German cockroach is a small species of cockroach, typically about ½” long. It varies from tan to almost black, and it has two dark, nearly parallel, streaks running from behind the head to the base of the wings. Even though the German cockroach has wings, it can barely fly, although it may glide when disturbed. Of the few species of cockroach that are domestic pests, it probably is the most widely troublesome example. It is very closely related to the Asian cockroach, and to the casual observer, they appear almost identical and may be mistaken for each other. However, the Asian cockroach is attracted to light and can fly like a moth, while the German cockroach can’t.

Behavior

The German cockroach will occasionally be seen during the day, especially if the population is crowded or has been disturbed. However, sightings are most often observed at night, when someone suddenly brings a light into a room deserted after dark, such as a kitchen where they have been scavenging. When excited or frightened, the species emits an unpleasant odor.

Reproduction

The German cockroach reproduces faster than any other residential cockroach. It grows from egg to breeding adult in roughly 50 – 60 days.. Female cockroaches are sometimes seen carrying egg cases on their abdomens. Once fertilized, a female German cockroach develops an ootheca in her abdomen. The abdomen swells as her eggs develop, until the translucent tip of the ootheca begins to protrude from the end of her abdomen, and by that time the eggs inside are fully sized, about 1/4 inch long with 16 segments.

Diet

German cockroaches are omnivorous scavengers. They are attracted particularly to meats, starches, sugars, and fatty foods. Where a shortage of foodstuff exists, they may eat household items such as soap, glue, and toothpaste. In famine conditions, they turn cannibalistic, chewing at each other’s wings and legs.

Pest Control

There are several reasons German cockroaches are so successful in infesting human structures:

• Lack of natural predators in human dwellings
• Ability to hide in cracks and crevices
• Resistance to chemical pesticides
• Short reproductive cycle