Cockroaches
American Cockroach
Most commonly known as “the sewer cockroach”
Characteristics: Reddish-brown with a yellow or very light brown border.
Largest species of common cockroaches found in Arizona
Both male and female American cockroaches have wings, but seldom fly.
They reside in dark, moist areas in basements, crawl spaces, floor drains, and sewers.
Feed on paper products, starches, sweets, clothing, and decaying organic matter; but can survive without food for up to 3 months.
German Cockroach
Characteristics: Dark reddish-brown 1/2-5/8 inch long distinguished by 2 dark stripes on the head.
Most common cockroach found in homes, apartments, restaurants, and hotels.
Attracted to fermented foods and beverages; if they have water, they can live without food for approximately 1 month.
German cockroach is the most persistent and difficult species to manage.
Brown- Banded Cockroach
Characteristics: Brownish-red and grow to be ½ inch long, distinguished by 2 light horizontal bands across its back.
Found in homes, hotels, restaurants; on high walls, behind picture frames, furniture, and in light fixtures.
Prefer to feed on starchy materials, but will eat mostly anything.
Both males and females have wings; the male will fly if disturbed.
They are frequently transported in furniture and will spread very rapidly.
Oriental Cockroach
Characteristics: 3/4 – 1 ¼ inches long; nearly black, greasy looking body
Oriental roaches are found all over the U.S.
Oriental roaches can be found in buildings; damp basements and ground level storage
Feed on filth: garbage and decaying organic matter
Turkistan
Characteristics: Often confused with the oriental cockroach
Males grow 1/2 – 7/8 inches long, are brownish-yellow and have wings
Females grow 3/4 – 1 inches long, dark brown to black bodies
Is found mostly in semi-desert areas, but may also live in moist areas. Can dwell inside or outside of homes and buildings.
Turkistans are common in sewer systems
