Common cockroach species
American Cockroach
Periplaneta americana
Appearance: Reddish-brown
Size: 35-50mm
The females deposit their egg capsules for hatching which can contain anywhere from 13 to 16 new nymphs. They are commonly found where there is high moisture such as drains and garbage areas; Indoors they habituate dark, poorly ventilated, often cramped places such as storage, cabinets, under the sink. They can also be found in ships, buses, trucks, etc.
Brown-banded Cockroach
Supella longipalpa
Appearance: Yellowish-brown
Size: 10-15mm
Not to be confused with the German cockroach, this species has two light coloration bands, or stripes, across its wings. While they are reported to be found indoors, they can also be found in urban gardens.
German Cockroach
Blattella germanica
Appearance: Light brown
Size: 11.1 to 16mm
These are one of the most persistent domestic pests due to their high reproductive ability. Compared to the American cockroach, their egg capsules can contain as much as 40 eggs, which means they can produce as much as 100,000 nymphs in their lifetime! Their flat bodies enable them to hide easily in tiny cracks and piles of paper. They can also be found in dry to high-moisture areas such as wall voids, mounted fixtures, electrical fixtures or appliances, as well as refrigerators, stoves, sinks, cupboards, and other locations with favorable humidity levels.
Why do we need to control cockroaches?
Has been linked with fungi, worm diseases, molds, and even the paralytic polio virus
Carries and transfers various pathogens to anything they crawl on to
Causes a distinct unpleasant smell
Causes damage, health hazards, and ruin to reputation
Has been associated with diseases such as gastroenteritis, typhoid, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections, wound and skin infections, food poisoning, and asthma
Causes concerns within factories, hospitality, commercial establishments, and households
Damages paper, textiles, and packaging
Stains and contaminates food, materials, or any surface it touches
You can never get rid of cockroaches with "spray-spray lang"
Why are cockroaches so persistent and prevalent?
High reproductive capacity
Imagine a new generation breeding in your cupboards every 2 to 3 months! This is one reason why they quickly develop resistance to insecticides.
Cockroaches are nocturnal
Once you start seeing them everywhere, it means your home or building already has a high infestation level.
Resilient bodies
They can dodge sprays and easily hide with their flat bodies.
Cockroaches are survivors
They can easily survive with the available food and water resources.
Science-based professional cockroach control is key to sustainable results.
With their high-reproductive capacity, specific treatment procedures are necessary. Their ability to quickly develop resistance against insecticides requires proper programming or treatment methodologies to ensure effective and sustained cockroach management. Our Integrated Pest Management components address the specific and unique conditions of each environment and area, and can provide a better long-term solution than the use of chemical insecticides.
Sources
PCAP Training, 2020
Dr. I. Lit, Jr.
Urban Pest Control, A Practitioner's Guide
P. Dhang
Handbook of Pest Control
A. Mallis