GENERAL

This cockroach species measures about 1 3/8 to 2 1/8 inches (34-54 mm) long as an adult. It is reddish-brown with light markings behind the head on the pronotum. Both sexes are almost identical in appearance, but in the male the abdomen is slightly narrower. The wings of the adult male typically extend beyond the abdomen, while those of the female do not. The male American cockroach has two short stylets to the inside of the cerci. The cerci are the larger of the paired structures at the tip of the abdomen. Females, unlike the males, lack stylets on the tip of the abdomen. The flat structures on the end of the female abdomen are used to hold the developing egg case (ootheca). Both sexes are poor to average fliers. The American cockroach resembles and is often confused with the brown banded cockroach.

The egg case (ootheca) contains 14 to 16 eggs and a female will produce nine to ten such cases during her lifetime. Nymphs molt 10 to 13 times and an individual may live well over a year.

This cockroach is originally from Africa and is worldwide in distribution. It is commonly found in sewers, food preparation areas and basements. They are more common in commercial buildings than in residences. This American cockroach is often called a "palmetto bug."

Cockroaches are considered general feeders—just about anything organic can become their next meal. They are primarily active at night, often seen scattering as you turn on a kitchen light. They are especially fond of any food crumbs that are left behind, so good basic housekeeping is one real deterrent.

1. Antenna- long, hairlike
2. Eyes- 2
3. Head- facing downward
4. Legs- 6
5. Wings- covered, can fly
6. Pronotum- outer light ring
7. Petiole- none
8. Abdomen- covered by wings
9. Color- light to dark brown
10. Other- prefers excess moisture

Life Cycle:

The female lays an egg case, containing about 15 eggs, near a food source.They also need to be left in a warm, damp environment. One egg case can be produced every week. The eggs hatch in 32-58 days, and then go through up to thirteen instars. The life cycle is an average of 600 days, with most adults living well over a year. Some have lived for almost four years!