Pest Gallery
German Cockroach: Blattella germanica
german cockroachThe German cockroach is the most common cockroach species in houses, apartments, restaurants, hotels, and other institutions throughout the United States. Adults are pale to medium brown and about ½ to 5/8 – inch long. German cockroaches can be distinguished from other roaches by the two dark stripes on the pronotum.
The female carries her egg capsule protruding from the rear of her abdomen until the eggs are ready to hatch. Adult females will usually produce from 4-8 egg capsules in their lifetime. Each capsule contains 30-48 eggs. It usually takes 28 days from the time of initial formation of the egg capsule until it hatches.
The German cockroach is a general feeder, but is particularly attracted to fermented foods and beverage resides. If water is present, adults can live about a month without food.
The German cockroach is a relatively active species, moving around readily within structures. They travel from one location to another and can pass through very small openings. They are also regularly carried from place to place in such things as bagged potatoes and onions, beverage cartons, grocery bags, food carts, and other food packaging.
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