All About German Roaches

German Roaches Identification Guide

Physical Characteristics

Roaches vary in size and color, but most species share common traits. They have flat, oval-shaped bodies, long antennae, and six spiny legs. Most species are brown or reddish-brown. German roaches are smaller, about half the size of a person’s thumb, with two distinct brown stripes on their backs. American and Oriental roaches, sometimes called “water bugs,” are much larger, often reaching up to 2 inches in length.

Common Species

• German Cockroach (Blattella germanica) - Small, light brown, found indoors.

• American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana) - Large, reddish-brown, found in basements and crawl spaces.

• Oriental Cockroach (Blatta orientalis) - Dark brown to black, prefers damp areas.

German Roaches Behavior and Biology

Roaches are highly adaptable and thrive in a variety of environments. They reproduce quickly, with German roaches producing multiple egg cases (oothecae) in their short lifespan. These pests are nocturnal, preferring to stay hidden in dark, warm spaces during the day and foraging for food at night. Roaches are scavengers and will eat anything from crumbs to paper and glue.

How We Treat for German Roaches

Oriental and American Roaches (“Waterbugs”)

• Inspection: We check basements, crawl spaces, and moisture-prone areas for activity.

• Treatment: Combination of repellent and non-repellent insecticides applied to cracks, crevices, baseboards, and entry points.

• Moisture Control: Recommendations for dehumidifiers, fixing leaks, and sealing gaps to cut off water sources.

• Prevention: Regular maintenance treatments to keep populations under control.

German Roaches

• Pre-Treatment: Customer must clear cabinets and move clutter away from walls.

• Inspection: Focus on kitchens, bathrooms, and heavily infested areas.

• Treatment: Non-repellent insecticides and growth regulators applied to cracks and crevices.

• Monitoring: Bait stations and glue boards placed to track infestation levels.

• Follow-ups: Scheduled treatments to ensure complete elimination over time.