What Is a German Cockroach?

The German cockroach is one of the most widespread insect pests in the world. It is a prolific breeder that can quickly infest homes and cause major health problems. The body fragments of dead cockroaches and their waste can become an airborne allergen, aggravating respiratory problems. The insects also harbor a wide range of harmful parasites which can be transmitted to humans.

  1. Description

    • The German cockroach grows to between 1/2 and 5/8 of an inch in length. It has a flattened, oval-shaped body with thin, spiny legs and two long antennae coming from its head. The insect's coloring is tan to light brown. It does possess wings, but is incapable of actual flight. Young cockroaches look like smaller versions of adults but have not yet developed wings. The way to recognize a German cockroach is to look for two darker-colored lines running from the head along the insect's back.

    Habitat and Range

    • It is an invasive species which originated in southeast Asia and has spread worldwide, with the exception of the areas with the coldest climates. It is a highly adaptable insect and thrives anywhere that is warm and humid. The cockroach can live in forests, caves and grasslands as well as in suburban homes. It is particularly suited to thriving in homes where year-round temperatures are usually constant and human activity provides a ready food supply.

    Diet and Predators

    • The German cockroach can eat a wide variety of organic and non-organic foods, including waste products. The insects especially favor sweets, starches, seeds and grains as well as glue, soap and toothpaste. The insects have a range of predators, including domestic dogs and cats, as well as other insects such as spiders and centipedes. The main killers of the insect are likely humans who exterminate them in large numbers when they infest homes.

    Life Cycle

    • The cockroaches breed constantly and promiscuously, although breeding slows down in cooler months. Females produce between 120 and 240 eggs per season and live for only around 200 days. The eggs are carried on the female's back for around six weeks before hatching. The eggs hatch out after 20 to 30 days and the nymphs reach adulthood after around 65 days on average. Male cockroaches only live between 100 and 150 days. The fast breeding cycle of these insects is why they can rapidly infest a home.