Classification of Cockroaches

Cockroaches are generally considered to be pest insects by humans. They are common in most areas of human habitation and in warm regions around the world. They range in size from 0.1 to 2.3 inches and are flat, oval shaped and normally black or brown. Within the many species of cockroaches, most have wings but rarely fly. They have a flexible diet and are scavengers, feeding off dead and decaying plants and animals as well as live organisms. Most are omnivores.

  1. Evolution of Cockroaches

    • The earliest fossilized remains of cockroaches have been dated to the Carboniferous Period, about 354 to 295 million years ago. However, these had significantly different characteristics from modern cockroaches, which first appeared about 140 million years ago. Interestingly, modern research strongly suggests that termites evolved directly from cockroaches.

    American Cockroach and Smoky Brown Cockroach

    • One classification of cockroach within the general species is the American cockroach. It is reddish brown and about 1 1/2 inches long. Like most cockroaches, it has wings but rarely flies. The smoky brown cockroach is similar in appearance to the American cockroach but smaller and somewhat darker. Both species prefer organic matter, but they will eat almost anything when inside the home. This includes book bindings and the back of wall paper.

    Oriental Cockroach and German Cockroach

    • The oriental cockroach is black, shiny and about 1 1/4 inches long. It prefers to eat decayed organic material and has a particular preference for starchy foods. For this reason large numbers are often found in communities around garbage bins. The German cockroach is commonly found in condensed areas of human population, particularly in restaurants and hotels. They are usually just over a half inch long, medium brown and have two stripes behind their head.

    Brown Banded Cockroach and Woods Cockroach

    • Brown banded cockroaches are about the same size as the German cockroach but are light brown and have bands on their wings. Again, like other cockroaches, they will eat almost anything but show a preference for foods. One difference with this species is that it requires less moisture, so it can often be found in furniture and on walls and ceilings. Woods cockroaches are similar to American cockroaches but are slightly smaller and chestnut brown. Although their diet and other characteristics are broadly similar to most species, one difference is that they like the light.