Order: Blattodea

Family: Blattellidae

The German cockroach is found worldwide and is probably the most common of all cockroaches. Despite its common name, the German cockroach is thought to be of North African origin.

Description: Adult German cockroaches range in size from 1/2-5/8 of an inch long. They are quite recognizable because they have two dark stripes down their light-brown body.

Biology: Female German cockroaches deposit their ootheca (egg capsule) in a protected site just before hatching. This ootheca will contain approximately 30-40 eggs. Developmental time from egg to adult is about three months. Once the adult stage has been reached, the German cockroach will live approximately six months depending on environmental conditions. A very interesting aspect about the German cockroach is that they have the ability to reproduce parthenogenically. This means they can reproduce from an unfertilized ovum.

Habits: The German cockroach can be introduced into structures by paper products, paper packaging, or second-hand appliances. They prefer warm, moist surroundings often harboring in kitchens and bathrooms. However, anyplace where there is a food source (crumbs in a couch or under the refrigerator) and a protected environment, offers this pest excellent harborage.