Biology of Cockroaches
When it comes to the hardiest species on the planet, few animals can rival the cockroach. These insects are found everywhere, and there are literally thousands of species. Of these species, there are only 30 which are known to infest human buildings and thus considered pests. Still, this doesn’t mean much if you are one of the people whose home has been infested by thousands of one of the 30 species. In order to properly deal with a pest such as the cockroach, it is very important to have an understanding of their biology. Integrated pest control uses knowledge of pest to formulate a plan that will be of the most effect when dealing with an infestation or preventing one. By understanding the breeding habits, diet requirements, physical makeup, and habitat preferences of the cockroach, treatments can be targeted to address the problem without putting other species, including humans, at risk.
The physical appearance of cockroaches
For the most part cockroaches appear, when viewed from above, as flat and oblong insects with shiny black armor. This is a pretty general description, as of the 30 species of cockroach that are considered pests that we mentioned above there are many different size and color variations.
What all cockroaches do have in common is their respiratory system. Thy breathe through a tracheal system, which consists of several tubes attached to the spiracles on the exoskeleton - the system does not actually include the head (so cutting off the heads of cockroaches won’t kill them right away, there will be plenty of time to breed).
Cockroach life cycle
Cockroaches lay up to eight egg cases in one life time, which may last for up to two years. These egg cases contain about 40 eggs, and the mother cockroach will generally carry the egg case on her back until it hatches after a month or so. The number of eggs and matings will depend on conditions; with perfect conditions the female cockroach may have 300 or 400 offspring within a year. And of course, all of these offspring are capable of producing more offspring.
Cockroach diet
Anything. Seriously, anything. These guys can live off of the glue on the back of postage stamps.
Cockroach super human abilities
Cockroaches are incredibly tough to kill due to their many evolutionary adaptations. They are very smart insects, and their sensitive antennae can usually sense poison or baited food. As mentioned above, they can exist without their heads for a few days, and may not eat for up to a month. They can also go without breathing for up to 45 minutes, and can slow down their heart rates.
Cockroach habits
Cockroaches are nocturnal insets and will only be seen at night. Again, this is an adaptation the pests have made for survival; birds are their main predator and most birds are not active at night time. For the same reason, cockroaches prefer to stay away from open areas, making their homes in cracks in homes and scuttling along walls to food sources at night.
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