Cockroaches

Definition

Insects of the order Blattodea (formerly Blattaria), characterized by dorsoventrally flattened bodies, long filamentous antennae, leathery forewings (tegmina), and chewing mouthparts. Most of the approximately 4,600 described species are detritivores or omnivores in tropical and subtropical habitats; roughly 30 species have become cosmopolitan pests associated with human structures. Cockroaches exhibit pheromone-based aggregation, oothecal egg cases, and considerable radiation tolerance. Recent phylogenetic work places termites (Isoptera) nested within Blattodea, rendering the order paraphyletic unless termites are included.

Etymology

From Spanish cucaracha, of uncertain origin

Example

The German cockroach (Blattella germanica) and the American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) are the most common domestic pests, thriving in warm, humid microhabitats and developing resistance to multiple insecticide classes.

Synonyms

• Blattodea (order, inclusive of termites)
• Blattaria (order, exclusive of termites)

Related Terms

• Blattodea
• Blattaria
• termite
• orthopteroid
• Detritivore
• Synanthropic
• Ootheca
• tegmen
• gregarious behavior
• insecticide resistance

Usage Notes

The common name applies to the entire order, not merely pest species. Specialist usage increasingly treats 'Blattodea' as inclusive of termites; 'Blattaria' persists for cockroaches alone. 'Cockroach' is preferred over 'roach' in formal writing to avoid ambiguity with fish (Leuciscus rutilus) and other usages.