COCKROACHES

Cockroaches can be major pests in restaurants, hospitals, warehouses, offices and buildings with food-handling areas. The cockroach prefers a warm, humid, dark environment and is usually found in tropical or other mild climates. Only a few species have become pests. The insect damages more material than it consumes and emits a disagreeable odour. The diet of the roach, which includes both plant and animal products, ranges from food, paper, clothing, and books to dead insects, especially bedbugs.

The most common type of cockroach is the German cockroach. These pests are dark brown or black in color, and have two stripes running down their backs. German cockroaches are typically about 1/2 to 5/8 an inch long, making them one of the smaller cockroach species. Another type of cockroach is the Asian Cockroach. As their name suggests, Asian Cockroaches are originally from Asia, but have now spread to other parts of the world. They are very similar in appearance to German Cockroaches, but are slightly larger, measuring about 3/4 to 1 inch long. One of the largest types of cockroach is the American Cockroach. These roaches can grow up to 2 inches in length, and are a reddish-brown color. American Cockroaches also have a wingspan that can reach up to 4 inches! Finally, there is the Australian Cockroach. This species is one of the few that is able to fly, and they measure between 1 and 1 1/2 inches in length. Australian Cockroaches are dark brown or reddish-brown in color, with yellow markings on their heads and bodies.