Cockroaches

Latin/scientific name | Blatta orientalis - Blattella germanica

Description

Cockroaches are large insects which range in size from 10 - 23 mm in length, they have long whip like antennae and two pairs of wings. The two most commonly found species in the British Isles are:

The Oriental Cockroach (Blatta orientalis)

The German Cockroach (Blattella germanica)

They can be distinguished by their size and colour, the Oriental Cockroach being larger and darker brown in colour. The Oriental Cockroach unlike the German variety is unable to climb smooth vertical surfaces.

Distribution

Cockroaches can be found in premises where food is stored or handled. They are nocturnal insects and will spend most of the day hiding in cracks and around drains and service ducting. Infestations may be introduced into premises in laundry and food deliveries.

Significance

Cockroaches carry food poisoning germs on their bodies and are responsible for the spread of dysentery and gastroenteritis. They will feed on almost anything including faecal matter and food for human consumption. Contamination will occur when the insect comes into contact with food or work surfaces or through faecal contamination of foodstuffs.

Life Cycle

The female cockroach produces up to eight purse-like egg cases at monthly intervals. The egg cases are thick walled and are 6-12 mm in length and may contain up to 30 eggs. The nymphs of the German Cockroach emerge from their eggs in 2-4 weeks and those of the Oriental Cockroach in 6-12 weeks. The nymphs are similar in appearance to the adult but smaller. As the nymph develops and grows it moults. This usually occurs 5-10 times during its development which may take up to two years to complete until the insect reaches maturity. The life cycle is complete in a further four months for Oriental Cockroaches and nine months for the German Cockroach.

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