Types of Cockroaches Found In India

29 MAY 2024

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German Cockroach (Blattella germanica)

Description: Small, light brown with two dark stripes on their thorax. Habitat: Common in homes, kitchens, bathrooms, and restaurants. Characteristics: Highly reproductive and difficult to control. .

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American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana)

Description: Large, reddish-brown with a yellowish margin on the thorax. Habitat: Prefers warm, moist environments like sewers, basements, and drains. Characteristics: Can fly short distances, known for size and resilience. .

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Oriental Cockroach (Blatta orientalis)

Description: Shiny, dark brown to black, more rounded body. Habitat: Cooler, damp areas like basements, crawl spaces, and drains. Characteristics: Often called "water bugs" due to their habitat preferences.

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Brown-banded Cockroach (Supella longipalpa)

Description: Small, light brown with distinctive banding across their wings. Habitat: Warmer, drier environments like furniture, electronics, and ceilings. Characteristics: Found in homes and commercial buildings, less dependent on moisture. .

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Smokybrown Cockroach (Periplaneta fuliginosa)

Description: Large, uniformly dark brown to black with a glossy appearance. Habitat: Warm, humid outdoor environments but can enter homes. Characteristics: Often found in attics, greenhouses, and around roofs.

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Australian Cockroach (Periplaneta australasiae)

Description: Similar to the American cockroach but with distinct yellow markings on the thorax and wings. Habitat: Warm, tropical climates, common in greenhouses and gardens. Characteristics: Fast-moving and capable of flight. Understanding the specific species of cockroaches present can help in implementing effective control measures, as different species may require different strategies for management. .

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The total number of cockroach species is 4000. The number is, according to a survey conducted by insect experts. Only 40 species find their names as pests. Others – they are beneficial in natural habitats.