American Cockroach

The American cockroach is the largest species of cockroach routinely found in homes, and often considered a pest. In certain regions of the U.S. it is colloquially known as the waterbug, though it is not a true waterbug since it is not aquatic, nor a Hemipteran. It is also known as the ship cockroach, kakerlac, and Bombay canary. It is often misidentified as a palmetto bug. Scientific Name: Periplaneta americana Range: Worldwide — originated in tropical Africa Size: 35—53 mm — largest common cockroach in human dwellings Status: Pest ID Notes: Reddish-brown with pale yellow band around edge of pronotum. Long antennae. Can fly short distances. Behavior / Notes: Despite name, not native to the Americas. Lives 1–2 years. Can hold breath 40 minutes; survive without head ~1 week.