Oriental Cockroach

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Blatta orientalis: /ˈblat.ta oː.ri.enˈtaː.lis/

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Summary

The Oriental cockroach (Blatta orientalis) is a large, flightless cockroach that thrives in damp, cool environments, primarily found in human habitations as a pest. It reproduces by laying egg cases and has a year-long life cycle from nymph to adult.

Physical Characteristics

Adults measure 18-29 mm (0.71–1.14 in) for males and 20-27 mm (0.79–1.06 in) for females. Males have long brown wings covering three quarters of their body length; females have non-functional wings that are brachypterous. Both are dark brown or black with a glossy body.

Identification Tips

Males have long wings and a narrower body, while females are shorter, wider, and appear wingless at first glance. Females can be mistaken for the Florida woods cockroach due to their appearance.

Habitat

Prefers dark, moist areas such as decaying organic matter, sewers, basements, and drains. Typically found in cool, damp environments and seldom on higher floors of buildings.

Distribution

Originally endemic to the Crimean Peninsula and the region around the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea; currently it has a cosmopolitan distribution, found in various continents including North America and Europe.

Diet

Omnivorous, preferring starchy or sugary foods. Often associated with garbage or decaying organic matter, indoors or outdoors.

Life Cycle

Females lay one egg case (ootheca) every month, with up to 18 in a lifetime. On average, 14 nymphs hatch from each egg case after about two months. Nymphs undergo 7-10 molts before reaching adulthood, which takes about 12 months.

Reproduction

Females lay rectangular, brown, egg cases that contain 16-18 eggs. Oothecae are laid in sheltered areas and hatch on their own after approximately 42 to 81 days depending on temperature.

Ecosystem Role

As a decomposer, the Oriental cockroach plays a role in breaking down organic matter; however, it is considered a pest in human habitats.

Economic Impact

Major household pests associated with unsanitary conditions, potentially causing contamination and spreading diseases.

Health Concerns

Known to transfer bacteria and viruses, potentially leading to foodborne illnesses such as dysentery, E. coli, and Salmonella.

Similar Taxa

• Florida woods cockroach

Misconceptions

Often confused with other cockroach species and called 'water bugs' due to their habitat preferences.

Tags

• Blatta orientalis
• Oriental Cockroach
• pest control
• household pests
• cockroach biology