Cockroaches or Waterbugs?
The oriental cockroach, also known as the waterbug, is a problematic pest that is common in the southern, mid-west and northwestern United States. They have some notable differences from the American cockroach.
Habitat
They have a tendency to travel at a slower pace than other species of roaches. They are referred to as waterbugs because of the fact that they prefer to stay in areas that are moist and dark. As with other roach species, they can usually be found on porches, in basements, drains, sewers and other areas where water tends to collect. As far as outdoor locations, they like to gather under mulch, under leaves and in various bushes.
Differences between Oriental and American cockroaches
- Size: Oriental – 2.5 cm to 3.0 cm American – 2.8cm to 4.3 cm
- Temperature of habitat: Oriental – 68 degrees to 84 degrees F American – Prefers heated buildings. Optimum 90 degrees F.
- Nymphal development time: Oriental – 6-12 months American – 4-15 months
- Life span: Oriental: 1-1 1/2 years American: 1-1 1/2 years
American Cockroach
Food supply
Oriental cockroaches, just like all of their other relatives, have the ability to survive by eating just about anything. It does not matter how rotten or decayed something is, cockroaches can turn it into a source of food. They eat filthy and disgusting things such as the leftover contents of tin cans that have been thrown away and organic matter that is decayed. If they are not able to find these sources of food, they have the ability to survive on only water for one month. If they do not have access to food or water, they can still live for as long as two weeks. These pests are the definition of scavengers. If you have ever wondered why scientists believe that many cockroach species have the ability to survive a nuclear war, this information should help you to understand.
Diseases spread by Oriental cockroaches
The ability to spread disease is one of the things that roaches are most famous for. This is primarily due to the fact that they spend a large percentage of their lives in unsanitary places such as garages, storage areas, bathrooms, kitchens, garbage disposals and sewers. They will then spread the bacteria they accumulate from these areas to utensils, dishes, surfaces where food is prepared and food supplies. They have the ability to contaminate much more food than they can consume. The bodies of waterbugs contain disease-producing organisms such as viruses, protozoa and bacteria. Diarrhea, dysentery and food poisoning are all diseases that this pests have been known to spread.
If you live in Henderson or Las Vegas and you are experiencing problems with cockroaches, you need to take action immediately and call a professional exterminator. These pests present a major health risk to you, your family and anyone else who enters your home. Contact your Las Vegas and Henderson exterminator today. Call Intrusion Pest Control today. 702-280-4549 or contact us
Source: NPMA