Cockroaches are known for spreading disease and are associated with various health risks. Exposure to this insect could put one at risk of Dysentery, Salmonella and Gastro-enteritis. In Trinidad & Tobago there are three main types of cockroaches; American cockroach, German cockroach and the Brown Banded cockroach.
American Cockroach "Periplaneta americana"
The American cockroach is among the largest pest cockroaches that invades homes and commercial properties. Can grow up to 40mm long, identifiable by shining red-brown colour.
Common Facts
Lifecycle
- 16 eggs in an ootheca (egg case) hatches in one to two months.
- 6 to 12 months for full adult development.
Habitat
- Can be found on trees.
- Dwell in dark, humid conditions and undisturbed areas: kitchens, bathrooms, basements of residential and commercial properties.
German Cockroach "Blatella germanica"
German cockroaches are identifiable by two dark stripes on their pronotum. Adults can grow up to 15mm in length.
Common Facts
Lifecycle
- 35 – 40 eggs in an ootheca (egg case) hatches in one month.
- 6 weeks to 6 months for full adult development.
- 3 – 4 generations yearly.
Habitat
- Commonly found indoors.
- Dwell in wet, humid conditions: kitchens, bathrooms in residential and commercial properties.
- Eats almost anything.
Brown Banded Cockroach "Supella longipalpa"
One of the smallest species of pest cockroaches. They can grow up to 15mm in length and are identifiable by yellow-brown stripes across their abdomen.
Common Facts
Habitat
- Active at night.
- Dwell in warm, humid conditions; heated buildings, ceilings, attics.
- Feed on materials with high starch content.
