Corydiidae

Definition

A family of cockroaches in the order Blattodea, formerly known as Polyphagidae, comprising approximately 40 genera divided into five subfamilies. Members are commonly called sand cockroaches and are typically associated with arid and sandy habitats, exhibiting adaptations for burrowing and desiccation resistance.

Etymology

Example

The desert cockroach Arenivaga investigata, a member of Corydiidae, is notable for its ability to absorb water vapor from unsaturated air using specialized hygroscopic structures on its mouthparts—a physiological adaptation to desert environments.

Synonyms

• Polyphagidae

Related Terms

• Blattodea
• Blattidae
• Blaberidae
• Arenivaga
• sand cockroach
• cryptocercid
• cockroach systematics

Usage Notes

The family was reclassified from Polyphagidae to Corydiidae based on phylogenetic studies; older literature uses the former name. The group is distinguished from other cockroach families by morphological and ecological traits associated with xeric habitats, though precise diagnostic characters require specialist identification. Not to be confused with the superficially similar Blattidae (common cockroaches) or Blaberidae (giant cockroaches).