Types of Household Cockroaches
You might find it interesting that there are over 4,500 recognized species of cockroaches in the world, and specifically in Iran, around 300 different species have been identified.
However, you don’t need to identify all 300 types to effectively eliminate them.
In this article, we will explain all the kitchen cockroaches you need to identify, complete with images.
Cabinet Cockroach Identification
- Scientific Name: Blattella germanica
- Common Name: German cockroach or cabinet cockroach
- Species: This cockroach is one of the most common and populous household cockroaches, particularly found in kitchens and damp areas.
Appearance and Identification
- Size: Approximately 1.5 to 2 centimeters in length.
- Color: Light brown or yellowish-brown, with two dark, narrow stripes on its back.
- Shape: Oval and flat body with long, slender legs. It has wings, but most cockroaches do not fly and prefer to run on the ground.
**Identifying the Presence of Cabinet Cockroaches**
- **Visible Signs:** Noticing cockroaches at night, especially in damp areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
- **Droppings:** The presence of small black droppings resembling pepper grains.
- **Eggs:** The eggs of these cockroaches can be found in brown capsules, which may be located in hidden spots such as under sinks or in wall cracks.
**Dangers of Cabinet Cockroaches**
- **Disease Transmission:** Cabinet cockroaches can carry various bacteria and diseases, including gastrointestinal illnesses.
- **Allergies:** The droppings and bodies of cockroaches can trigger allergies and sensitivities in individuals.
- **Food Damage:** Cockroaches can damage food and contaminate it.
**Methods to Eradicate Cabinet Cockroaches**
- **Regular Cleaning:** Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in living spaces, particularly in the kitchen, can help reduce cockroach populations.
- **Sealing Cracks:** Identifying and sealing gaps and entry points into the home can prevent cockroaches from entering.
- **Using Sticky Traps:** Specialized traps can assist in identifying and reducing cockroach populations.
- **Pesticide Spraying:** In cases of severe infestations, using specific cockroach pesticides can be effective. It is crucial to use the appropriate chemicals and follow instructions carefully.
- **Cockroach Baits:** Using baits that attract cockroaches can be effective. These baits typically contain specific toxins that gradually reduce the cockroach population.
**Preventing the Return of Cockroaches**
- **Ongoing Inspections:** Regularly checking damp and hidden areas in the home for early detection of cockroaches.
- **Maintaining Hygiene:** Preventing the accumulation of waste and moisture in indoor environments.
Cabinet cockroaches are a common pest in homes that can pose health risks. Being aware of how to identify, the dangers they pose, and methods for control and prevention can help you maintain a healthier living environment.
Identifying Sewer Cockroaches
Scientific Name: Periplaneta americana
Common Name: American cockroach or sewer cockroach
Species: This type of cockroach is one of the largest and most prevalent in urban environments.
Appearance and Identification
Size: This cockroach can reach about 3 to 4 centimeters in length.
Color: Dark brown to reddish-brown, with wings located at the back.
Shape: Oval and flat body with long, slender legs. Its wings are strong and well-developed, allowing it to fly.
Identifying the Presence of Sewer Cockroaches
Visible Signs: Observing cockroaches, especially in damp and dark areas like basements, sewers, and kitchens.
Droppings: The droppings of these cockroaches are larger than those of other cockroaches and resemble oval-shaped black grains.
Eggs: Sewer cockroach eggs are found in brown, hard capsules and are usually located in hidden spots.
Dangers of Sewer Cockroaches
Disease Transmission: Sewer cockroaches can carry bacteria, viruses, and various diseases that can harm human health.
Allergies: The droppings and bodies of cockroaches can cause allergic reactions in individuals.
Food Damage: These cockroaches can damage food and kitchen equipment, leading to contamination.
Methods to Eradicate Sewer Cockroaches
Environmental Hygiene: Keeping living spaces clean and preventing waste and moisture accumulation in damp areas.
Sealing Cracks: Identifying and sealing gaps and entry points into the home to prevent cockroach entry.
Sticky Traps: Using specialized traps can help identify and reduce cockroach populations.
Pesticide Spraying: In severe cases, using specific cockroach pesticides can be effective. Appropriate chemicals should be used while following guidelines.
*Cockroach Baits: Using baits that attract cockroaches can be effective. These baits usually contain specific toxins that gradually reduce the cockroach population. Purchasing long-lasting cockroach baits for use in kitchens, boiler rooms, home heaters, laundry rooms, bathrooms, and any areas where cockroaches may pass is advisable.
Preventing the Return of Cockroaches
Ongoing Inspections: Regularly checking damp and hidden areas in the home for early detection of cockroaches.
Maintaining Hygiene: Preventing the accumulation of waste and moisture in indoor environments, especially near sewage pipes.
Sewer cockroaches are a common pest in homes and urban areas that can pose health risks. Understanding how to identify, the dangers they present, and methods for control and prevention can help you create a healthier environment for yourself and your family.
Winged Beetle: Understanding the Winged Beetle
- Scientific Name: Pyrrhocoris apterous
- Common Name: Winged Beetle
- Species: Winged beetles are recognized as a type of beetle that possesses strong, developed wings and is capable of flight.
Appearance and Identification of Winged Cockroaches
- Size: Winged cockroaches can reach lengths of about 3 to 4 centimeters.
- Color: They are usually dark brown to reddish-brown with a shiny body.
- Shape: They have an oval and flat body, with long and thin legs. Their wings completely cover the body and are suitable for flying.
How to Identify the Presence of Winged Cockroaches
- Visible Signs: Observing cockroaches, especially at night and in damp places such as basements, sewers, and kitchens.
- Droppings: The droppings of these cockroaches are larger than those of other cockroaches and resemble oval-shaped black grains.
- Eggs: The eggs of winged cockroaches are found in brown, hard capsules and are usually located in hidden areas.
Dangers of Winged Cockroaches
- Disease Transmission: Winged cockroaches can carry bacteria, viruses, and various diseases that can harm human health.
- Allergies: Their droppings and carcasses can cause sensitivities and allergies in individuals.
- Food Contamination: These cockroaches can damage food and contaminate it.
Methods for Eliminating Winged Cockroaches
- Environmental Hygiene: Keeping your living environment clean and preventing the accumulation of garbage and moisture in damp areas.
- Sealing Gaps: Identifying and sealing gaps and entry points in the home to prevent cockroach entry.
- Sticky Traps: Using special traps can help identify and reduce cockroach populations.
- Spraying: In severe cases, using specific insecticides for cockroaches can be effective. It is important to use appropriate pesticides following the instructions.
- Cockroach Baits: Utilizing baits that attract cockroaches can be effective. These baits typically contain specific toxins that gradually reduce the cockroach population.
Preventing Cockroach Reinfestation
- Regular Inspections: Regularly checking damp and hidden areas in the home for early detection of cockroaches.
- Maintaining Cleanliness: Preventing the accumulation of garbage and moisture in indoor environments, especially near sewage pipes.
Winged cockroaches are a common pest that can pose health risks. Understanding how to identify them, their dangers, and methods for control and prevention can help you create a healthier environment for yourself and your family.
White Cockroach Identification
- Scientific Name: Blattella vaga
- Common Name: White Cockroach or Paper Cockroach
- Habitat: This type of cockroach is typically found in damp and dark environments and appears to thrive indoors.
Appearance and Identification of the White Cockroach
- Size: White cockroaches are usually small, measuring about 1.5 to 2 centimeters in length.
- Color: Their bodies range from white to cream, and in some cases, they may have dark stripes on their backs.
- Shape: They have an oval and flat body with long legs. Their wings are generally well-developed, but many white cockroaches do not fly.
How to Identify the Presence of White Cockroaches
- Visual Signs: Spotting cockroaches, especially in damp areas such as basements and storage rooms.
- Droppings: The droppings of these cockroaches appear as small, white or light-colored pellets.
- Eggs: White cockroach eggs are typically found in hidden, moist places like under sinks or in wall crevices.
Dangers of White Cockroaches
- Disease Transmission: White cockroaches can carry bacteria and various diseases that can harm human health.
- Allergies: The droppings and bodies of cockroaches can trigger allergies and sensitivities in individuals.
- Food Damage: These cockroaches can damage food and kitchen equipment, contaminating them in the process.
Methods for Eradicating White Cockroaches
- Environmental Hygiene: Keeping your living space clean and preventing the accumulation of waste and moisture in damp areas.
- Sealing Cracks: Identifying and sealing entry points and gaps in your home to prevent cockroach ingress.
- Sticky Traps: Using specialized traps can help identify and reduce the cockroach population.
- Spraying Insecticides: If the problem is severe, using specific insecticides for cockroaches can be effective. Ensure to use appropriate products and follow the instructions carefully.
- Cockroach Baits: Employing baits that attract cockroaches can be effective. These baits usually contain specific toxins that gradually reduce the cockroach population.
Preventing the Return of Cockroaches
- Regular Inspections: Routinely checking damp and hidden areas in your home for early detection of cockroaches.
- Maintaining Cleanliness: Preventing waste accumulation and moisture in indoor environments, especially near sewage pipes.
White cockroaches are a common pest that can pose health risks. Being aware of how to identify them, their dangers, and methods for control and prevention can help you create a healthier environment for yourself and your family.
Cockroach Identification
- Scientific Name: Blatta orientalis
- Common Name: Cockroach or Eastern Cockroach
- Species: This type of cockroach is one of the common species found in humid environments, especially in bathrooms and restrooms.
Appearance and Identification of the Cockroach
- Size: Cockroaches typically reach a length of about 2 to 4 centimeters.
- Color: Their bodies are dark, usually brownish-black.
- Shape: They have an oval and flat body with long, strong legs. These cockroaches also have wings, but they usually do not fly and prefer to run on the ground instead.
How to Identify the Presence of Cockroaches
- Visual Signs: Spotting cockroaches, especially at night, in damp areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
- Droppings: Cockroach droppings appear as small, brown granules.
- Eggs: Cockroach eggs are found in hard, brown capsules and are typically located in hidden, moist places.
Dangers of Cockroaches
- Disease Transmission: Cockroaches can carry bacteria, viruses, and various diseases that can harm human health.
- Allergies: Cockroach droppings and bodies can trigger allergies and sensitivities in individuals.
- Food Contamination: These cockroaches can damage and contaminate food supplies.
Methods for Eradicating Cockroaches
- Environmental Hygiene: Keeping living spaces clean and preventing the accumulation of waste and moisture in damp areas.
- Sealing Cracks: Identifying and sealing entry points and gaps in your home to prevent cockroach entry.
- Sticky Traps: Using specialized traps can help identify and reduce cockroach populations.
- Spraying Insecticides: If the infestation is severe, using specific insecticides can be effective. Always use appropriate products and follow the instructions carefully.
- Baits: Using baits that attract cockroaches can be effective. These baits typically contain specific insecticides that gradually reduce the cockroach population.
Preventing the Return of Cockroaches
- Regular Inspections: Frequently checking damp and hidden areas in your home for early detection of cockroaches.
- Maintaining Cleanliness: Preventing waste accumulation and moisture in indoor environments, especially near sewage pipes.
Cockroaches are a common pest that can pose health risks to individuals. Being aware of how to identify them, the dangers they present, and the methods for control and prevention will help you create a healthier environment for yourself and your family.
Reasons for the Increase of Cockroaches in the House
1. Humidity and Moist Conditions
Cockroaches love warm and humid environments. Areas like the bathroom, kitchen, and basement, which have high moisture levels, can be ideal places for cockroaches to live and lay eggs.
2. Food and Waste
Food leftovers, open trash, and dirty dishes can provide appealing food sources for cockroaches. Even small bits of food can attract them.
3. Lack of Cleanliness and Hygiene
Irregular cleaning and poor hygiene can contribute to the buildup of dirt and food, creating favorable conditions for cockroach growth.
4. Cracks and Gaps
Cracks and gaps in walls, doors, and windows can allow cockroaches to enter your home. These spots can serve as entry points for cockroaches.
5. Infestation from Other Buildings
If there are cockroaches in neighboring buildings, they can find their way into your home through sewer pipes or shared spaces.
6. Rapid Breeding
Cockroaches can reproduce quickly. A single female cockroach can lay up to 40 eggs at once, and these eggs can rapidly turn into adult cockroaches.
7. Weather Conditions:
During certain seasons like spring and summer, weather conditions can lead to an increase in cockroach populations, as they provide more suitable temperature and humidity for them.
To prevent an increase in cockroaches in your home, it's essential to pay attention to cleanliness and hygiene, block entry points, and reduce unfavorable conditions for their habitation.
How to Get Rid of Cockroaches
1. Cleanliness of the Environment
- Regular Cleaning: Daily and weekly cleaning, especially in the kitchen and damp areas, can help reduce food sources for cockroaches.
- Trash Collection: Place trash in sturdy bags and take it out regularly.
2. Seal Cracks and Gaps:
- Repairs and Blockages: Check for any cracks and gaps in walls, doors, and windows, and seal them with appropriate materials.
3. Use Sticky Traps:
- Special Traps: You can use sticky traps to identify and reduce the cockroach population. These traps stick to the cockroaches and trap them.
4. Pest Spraying:
- Cockroach Pesticides: If the problem is severe, you can use cockroach-specific pesticides. These should be used according to specified instructions.
- Professional Services: If needed, you can hire professional pest control services for spraying.
5. Use Cockroach Baits:
- Special Baits: Baits that attract cockroaches can be effective. These baits usually contain specific poisons that gradually reduce the cockroach population.
6. Use Natural Methods:
- Household Solutions: Some natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, or plant oils can be effective as natural solutions for repelling cockroaches.
- Diatomaceous Earth Powder: This powder can act as a natural pesticide and harm cockroaches.
7. Prevent Re-entry of Cockroaches:
- Ongoing Inspection: Regularly check damp and hidden areas, and take necessary actions if you spot cockroaches.
- Maintain Hygiene: Prevent the accumulation of trash and moisture in indoor environments, especially near sewer pipes.
Getting rid of cockroaches requires a combination of cleanliness, identification, and effective control. By following the methods above, you can effectively reduce the cockroach population and prevent their return.
Easy Ways to Get Rid of Cockroaches
Here are two simple methods you can use to easily eliminate cockroaches:
Using Taro Mar Crawling Insect Killer Sprays: you can Purchase Taro Mar sprays and use it in urgent situations to get rid of the cockroaches.
Using cockroach Killer powder: This product can also get rid of cockroaches effectively, quickly, and with long-lasting results. Make sure to keep it out of reach of your children after purchasing the cockroach powder.
Important Tips
- Safe usage: When using pesticides and baits, always follow safety guidelines and keep them away from children and pets.
- Proper distribution: Place the baits in areas where cockroaches have been seen, and regularly check them to ensure they are still effective.
Using effective baits can help reduce the cockroach population. Mixing different methods and maintaining environmental cleanliness will help you control cockroaches effectively.
Understanding the benefits of recognizing different types of kitchen cockroaches
1. Cost reduction
- Reducing medical expenses: Some cockroaches can cause gastrointestinal diseases and other health issues. Rapid and accurate identification of the type of cockroach can help prevent illnesses and reduce medical costs.
- Pest control costs: By correctly identifying the type of cockroach, you can avoid unnecessary expenses for inappropriate control methods. Choosing effective and targeted solutions can significantly reduce costs.
2. Impact on quality of life
Mental comfort: Having cockroaches in your home can lead to anxiety and a sense of insecurity. Knowing and managing them can bring more peace to you and your family.
Stress reduction: When you know what types of cockroaches you’re dealing with and how to tackle them, you’ll feel more in control of the situation, which helps lower stress.
3. Improved resource management
Identifying different cockroaches helps you manage your resources and time more efficiently. For example, instead of spending time on general fumigation, you can focus on specific areas where certain cockroaches are congregating.
4. Impact of different cockroaches on various household items
-Preserving home aesthetics: Some cockroaches can damage household items, especially wood-boring ones. By identifying them and taking appropriate measures, you can prevent damage to furniture and decor.
- Impact on property sales: If you plan to sell your house, the presence of cockroaches and the damage they cause can decrease the property's value. Being aware of this can help you address issues before selling.
6. Adaptation to environmental changes
Behavior analysis: Some cockroaches can respond to environmental changes. Recognizing these behaviors helps you take action based on climatic and sanitary changes.
Adapting to developments: By understanding the types of cockroaches and their behaviors, you can quickly respond to changes in their populations and take appropriate measures.
Overall, recognizing different types of cockroaches is not just about identifying problems and controlling them; it also leads to improved quality of life, reduced costs, and increased mental comfort. This awareness gives you the ability to act proactively.