Cockroaches are close relatives of termites. They are a highly successful group of animals whose origin extends back at least 300 million years.

While there are about 3,500 species of cockroaches worldwide, only about 10 species are found in our dwellings.

Cockroaches are mostly nocturnal creatures, hiding during the day and becoming active soon after dark, seeking food. Active cockroaches observed during daylight hours indicate an overpopulation. Cockroaches often live in environments that support diseases harmful to humans including sewers, grease traps and other sources of polluted water. The same cockroaches may contact various surfaces in kitchens and food processing and handling facilities. It is likely that cockroaches are responsible for the transmission of diseases – perhaps the most common being salmonella (food poisoning) This reason by itself justifies the need to control cockroaches on-premises.

Cockroaches leave chemical trails in their feces, as well as emit airborne pheromones for swarming and mating. These chemical trails transmit bacteria onto surfaces. Other cockroaches will follow these trails to discover sources of food and water, and also discover where other cockroaches are hiding. Thus, cockroaches can exhibit emergent behaviour, in which group or swarm behaviour emerges from a simple set of individual interactions.

Cockroach Species

  • Australian Cockroach
  • Brown Banded Cockroach
  • Smokey Brown Cockroach
  • Oriental Cockroach
  • German Cockroach
  • American Cockroach

HOUSEKEEPING TIP

It is important that there is no food or water left out overnight. Put lids on rubbish bins. Cockroaches can survive several months without food but will not last long without water.