German Cockroach

Blatella germanica

German cockroach

German cockroach adult (Gary Alpert, Harvard University, Bugwood.org)

german cockroach

German cockroach adults and nymphs (Ryan Davis, Utah State University Extension)

German cockroach

German cockroach egg case (Gary Alpert, Harvard University, Bugwood.org)

Identification

  • light brown with two dark strips right behind the head
  • small: 1/2 - 5/8 inch long

Nesting Habits

  • prefer warm, moist areas near food preparation and/or storage (primary kitchen-infesting roach in Utah)
  • found near sinks, appliances, furnaces, etc.

Diet

  • highly varied and diverse

Significance

  • may carry disease
  • can cause allergic reactions or asthma symptoms

IPM Recommendations

  • Educate occupants of building or room(s) of their role in eliminating roaches.
  • Inspect incoming shipments of food or products for roaches or egg sacs.
  • Improve sanitation (deep clean infested areas).
  • Inspect and monitor all areas where food is prepared, stored, or eaten, and where moisture and heat are present.
  • Use cockroach traps to determine infestation level, harborage location, movement and control success.
  • Store food in pest-proof containers.
  • Vacuum (with a HEPA filter) existing roaches and egg cases.
  • Use roach baits and/or boric acid dust.
  • Dispose of trash regularly to remove food and shelter sources.
  • Do not store items in cardboard boxes long-term.
  • Repair leaks and plumbing malfunctions.

Additional Resources:

Cockroaches fact sheet

IPM for Cockroaches: Integrated Pest Management in Sensitive Environments (University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension)