Cockroaches are some of the most adaptable and widespread insects on the planet, with thousands of species found in diverse habitats ranging from tropical rainforests to desert sands. While only a few are considered pests in homes, many others live quietly in nature, playing important roles in decomposition and the food chain.
In this guide, you’ll find a list of 36 unique cockroach species from around the world—some notorious pests, others exotic and even kept as pets. Each species has its own distinct look, habitat, and behavior, showcasing the surprising diversity within the cockroach world.
1. American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana)
The American cockroach is one of the largest and most commonly found cockroach species in homes and commercial buildings. Despite its name, it is originally from Africa but is now widespread across the globe. It thrives in warm, moist environments and is a major household pest due to its size and speed.
Identification
- Color: Reddish-brown with a yellowish band behind the head
- Size: 1.5 to 2 inches (38 to 50 mm)
- Wings: Fully developed, capable of gliding
- Antennae: Long and thin, often longer than the body
- Body: Flattened and oval with spiny legs
Habitat and Distribution
American cockroaches are commonly found in sewers, basements, boiler rooms, crawl spaces, and any place with high humidity and warmth. They are especially prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, including southern parts of the U.S., Asia, and Africa.
Behavior and Diet
They are scavengers and nocturnal, feeding on a wide range of organic material including crumbs, decaying matter, and even soap or paper. They avoid light and scatter quickly when disturbed, making infestations hard to detect early.
Life Cycle and Reproduction
Females produce oothecae (egg cases) that contain around 14–16 eggs each. A female can produce dozens of egg cases in her lifetime. Under favorable conditions, the nymphs mature into adults in about 6 to 12 months, and adults can live up to 1.5 years.
2. German Cockroach (Blattella germanica)
The German cockroach is one of the most common indoor cockroach pests worldwide. It is small, fast-reproducing, and often found in kitchens and bathrooms where food and moisture are present.
Identification
- Color: Light brown to tan with two dark parallel stripes on the pronotum
- Size: 0.5 to 0.6 inches (13 to 16 mm)
- Wings: Present but rarely used for flight
- Antennae: Long, thin, and highly sensitive
- Body: Slender and quick-moving
Habitat and Distribution
Commonly found in residential homes, restaurants, grocery stores, and anywhere with warmth, moisture, and food. Global in distribution but especially problematic in densely populated urban areas.
Behavior and Diet
German cockroaches are nocturnal scavengers, feeding on food crumbs, grease, toothpaste, and even book bindings. They prefer tight, hidden spaces and are notorious for rapid infestations.
3. Oriental Cockroach (Blatta orientalis)
The Oriental cockroach, also called the “black beetle,” is a large, shiny species often found in cool, damp areas. It moves slower than other species but is highly resilient and can survive in harsh conditions.
Identification
- Color: Dark brown to nearly black
- Size: 1 to 1.25 inches (25 to 32 mm)
- Wings: Males have short wings; females are wingless
- Antennae: Long and thin
- Body: Glossy and robust
Habitat and Distribution
Prefers basements, crawl spaces, drains, and under sinks. It thrives in cool, damp environments and is common across Europe, Asia, and North America.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on decaying organic matter, garbage, and starchy foods. Often found near drains, sewers, or wet floor areas. Less likely to infest higher floors compared to other species.
4. Brown-Banded Cockroach (Supella longipalpa)
The Brown-Banded cockroach is a small indoor species known for the light brown bands across its wings and abdomen. Unlike many cockroaches, it prefers dry, warm areas and is often found in higher locations like ceilings and cabinets.
Identification
- Color: Light brown with two pale bands across wings and abdomen
- Size: 0.5 inches (about 13 mm)
- Wings: Fully developed; males can fly, females rarely do
- Antennae: Long and thin
- Body: Flat and fast-moving
Habitat and Distribution
Found in apartments, offices, and homes, especially in electronic appliances, ceilings, wall hangings, and upper cabinets. Common across North America, Asia, and tropical regions.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on glue, book bindings, wallpaper paste, food crumbs, and other starchy materials. Active at night and capable of spreading rapidly in indoor environments.
5. Smokybrown Cockroach (Periplaneta fuliginosa)
The Smokybrown cockroach is a large, uniformly dark-colored cockroach that is strong, fast, and attracted to light. It is mainly an outdoor species, but will enter homes in search of food and moisture.
Identification
- Color: Uniformly dark brown to mahogany
- Size: 1.25 to 1.5 inches (32 to 38 mm)
- Wings: Long, extend past the body; strong fliers
- Antennae: Very long, sometimes longer than body
- Body: Smooth and shiny
Habitat and Distribution
Common in southern U.S., Southeast Asia, and Australia, typically found in garages, attics, crawl spaces, outdoor sheds, gutters, and under mulch or woodpiles.
Behavior and Diet
Omnivorous, feeding on plant matter, food scraps, feces, and decaying organic materials. Often seen near outdoor lights and known to invade homes during warm, humid weather.
6. Australian Cockroach (Periplaneta australasiae)
The Australian cockroach closely resembles the American cockroach but is slightly smaller and more colorful, with distinctive yellow markings near the wings. Despite the name, it is found worldwide in warm climates.
Identification
- Color: Reddish-brown with yellow edges on the thorax and wings
- Size: 1.2 to 1.4 inches (30 to 35 mm)
- Wings: Fully developed; capable of flight
- Antennae: Long and curved
- Body: Flat and oval-shaped
Habitat and Distribution
Found in Australia, Southeast Asia, southern U.S., Africa, and other tropical or subtropical areas. Common in greenhouses, garden beds, woodpiles, and warm indoor spaces.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on plant matter, food waste, cardboard, and even pet food. Frequently enters buildings during cooler months in search of heat and moisture.
7. Surinam Cockroach (Pycnoscelus surinamensis)
The Surinam cockroach is a burrowing species known for its smooth, shiny body and unusual all-female reproduction through parthenogenesis. It is mostly found outdoors in soil-rich environments.
Identification
- Color: Dark brown to black body with pale edges on the wings
- Size: 0.75 to 1 inch (19 to 25 mm)
- Wings: Present but not used for flight
- Antennae: Straight and slender
- Body: Glossy, compact, and rounded
Habitat and Distribution
Native to Asia, now widespread in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, especially in Florida, the Caribbean, and parts of Africa. Found in potted plants, soil, compost, and under stones or debris.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on decaying leaves, mulch, roots, and organic soil material. Often considered a nuisance in greenhouses and indoor plant environments.
8. Turkestan Cockroach (Blatta lateralis)
The Turkestan cockroach is a fast-moving, invasive species that has become increasingly common in the southwestern United States. It often replaces the oriental cockroach in outdoor environments and is frequently found in basements and entry points of buildings.
Identification
- Color: Males – reddish-brown with pale yellow edges; Females – dark brown to black
- Size: Males: 0.75 to 1 inch (19 to 25 mm); Females slightly shorter and broader
- Wings: Males have long wings and can fly; females have short, non-functional wings
- Antennae: Long and straight
- Body: Flat, with clear difference between male and female appearance
Habitat and Distribution
Originally from Central Asia, now widespread in Middle East, India, and U.S. Southwest. Common in cracks, under debris, manholes, utility boxes, and foundation gaps.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on garbage, plant debris, and household scraps. Males are more mobile and attracted to lights, often entering buildings during summer evenings.
9. Asian Cockroach (Blattella asahinai)
The Asian cockroach is nearly identical in appearance to the German cockroach but differs significantly in behavior—it is outdoor-dwelling and attracted to light. First discovered in Florida, it has since spread throughout the southeastern U.S.
Identification
- Color: Light brown with two dark stripes behind the head
- Size: About 0.5 inches (13 mm)
- Wings: Fully developed; strong fliers
- Antennae: Long and slender
- Body: Slender and agile
Habitat and Distribution
Found in southern United States, particularly Florida, Georgia, and Texas, as well as parts of Asia and tropical zones. Lives in leaf litter, mulch, flower beds, and grassy areas.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on decaying organic matter, seeds, and small insects. Frequently enters homes through open doors or windows at night due to its attraction to artificial lights.
10. Pennsylvania Wood Cockroach (Parcoblatta pensylvanica)
The Pennsylvania Wood cockroach is a native North American species that prefers outdoor wooded environments. Unlike many cockroach pests, it does not infest homes but may accidentally wander indoors, especially during mating season.
Identification
- Color: Chestnut brown with pale yellow margins on the wings (males)
- Size: Males: 0.75 to 1 inch (19 to 25 mm); Females shorter with underdeveloped wings
- Wings: Males fully winged and strong fliers; females have small wing pads
- Antennae: Long and feather-like
- Body: Flattened with a matte texture
Habitat and Distribution
Found throughout the eastern and central United States, especially in wooded areas, under bark, woodpiles, and tree stumps.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on decaying wood, leaves, and plant matter. Males are attracted to lights at night and often enter homes in the spring and summer months during mating swarms.
11. Cuban Cockroach (Panchlora nivea)
The Cuban cockroach, also known as the green banana cockroach, is a bright green, leaf-like species that lives outdoors and is occasionally kept as a pet due to its harmless nature and attractive appearance.
Identification
- Color: Pale green with translucent wings
- Size: 0.5 to 1 inch (13 to 25 mm)
- Wings: Fully developed; strong, active fliers
- Antennae: Long and thin
- Body: Slender and leaf-shaped
Habitat and Distribution
Native to Cuba and the Caribbean, now common in Florida, Texas, and other subtropical regions. Found in gardens, palm trees, leaf litter, and decaying wood.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on rotting fruit, decaying vegetation, and other plant-based debris. Nocturnal and attracted to lights, but does not infest homes or structures.
12. Florida Woods Cockroach (Eurycotis floridana)
The Florida Woods cockroach, also called the stinking cockroach, is a large, slow-moving species known for releasing a strong, foul odor when threatened. It is mostly found outdoors in humid, wooded areas and rarely enters homes.
Identification
- Color: Dark reddish-brown to nearly black
- Size: 1.5 to 2 inches (38 to 50 mm)
- Wings: Very short and non-functional
- Antennae: Long and thick
- Body: Broad, rounded, and heavily built
Habitat and Distribution
Native to Florida and the southeastern United States, especially in swamps, under logs, palmetto leaves, and woodpiles.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on decaying plant material and organic debris. Emits a pungent odor from abdominal glands as a defense mechanism. Primarily active at night and not considered a home-invading pest.
13. Madagascar Hissing Cockroach (Gromphadorhina portentosa)
The Madagascar Hissing cockroach is one of the most famous cockroach species due to its ability to produce a distinctive hissing sound. Native to Madagascar, it is commonly used in educational exhibits and the exotic pet trade.
Identification
- Color: Dark brown to black with a glossy body
- Size: 2 to 4 inches (50 to 100 mm)
- Wings: Absent; does not fly
- Antennae: Thick and short
- Body: Heavy and segmented with a bumpy texture
Habitat and Distribution
Native to forests and leaf litter areas in Madagascar, where it hides under logs and detritus. In captivity, it’s found worldwide.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on rotting leaves, fruits, and other plant material. Makes a hissing sound by forcing air through spiracles on its abdomen, usually when alarmed, mating, or during territorial disputes.
14. Death’s Head Cockroach (Blaberus craniifer)
The Death’s Head cockroach is named for the skull-like pattern on its pronotum. It’s a large, tropical species that is not considered a pest and is often kept as a pet or used in insect displays due to its calm nature and striking appearance.
Identification
- Color: Dark brown to black body with pale tan wings
- Size: 2 to 2.5 inches (50 to 64 mm)
- Wings: Fully developed; capable of gliding
- Pronotum: Features a distinct pale “death’s head” marking
- Body: Broad and flat
Habitat and Distribution
Native to Central America and the Caribbean, particularly Jamaica, Cuba, and surrounding regions. Typically found in leaf litter, hollow logs, and decaying wood in tropical forests.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on decomposing organic matter, fruits, and dead insects. Known for being docile and slow-moving, with minimal odor or aggression. It prefers humid environments and is often reared in captivity.
15. Green Banana Cockroach (Panchlora nivea)
The Green Banana cockroach is a bright green flying cockroach that resembles a leaf and is harmless to humans. It’s often confused with the Cuban cockroach due to their similar appearance and behavior.
Identification
- Color: Lime green with clear, veined wings
- Size: 0.75 to 1 inch (19 to 25 mm)
- Wings: Fully developed; excellent fliers
- Antennae: Long and fine
- Body: Narrow, leaf-like silhouette
Habitat and Distribution
Common in Cuba, the Caribbean, and parts of South and Central America, and has been introduced to Florida and Texas. Often found in banana plants, gardens, and leaf litter.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on overripe fruit, compost, and decaying leaves. Attracted to lights at night but does not infest homes. Frequently seen in tropical climates near fruit trees and flowering plants.
16. Sand Cockroach (Arenivaga investigata)
The Sand cockroach is a burrowing species adapted to desert environments, rarely seen above ground. It is known for its round body, digging ability, and unique lifestyle beneath the surface of sandy soil.
Identification
- Color: Pale tan to light brown
- Size: 0.5 to 1 inch (13 to 25 mm)
- Wings: Males are winged; females are wingless
- Body: Rounded and compact
- Antennae: Shorter than most roaches
Habitat and Distribution
Native to desert regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, especially in sandy soils, dunes, and arid landscapes.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on organic particles in the sand, including decaying plant roots and microorganisms. It is nocturnal and subterranean, rarely coming to the surface unless disturbed.
17. Cuban Mayari Cockroach (Pycnoscelus surinamensis – Mayari strain)
The Cuban Mayari cockroach is a local variation of the Surinam cockroach, found primarily in Cuba and nearby Caribbean islands. It is adapted for burrowing and is entirely female-reproducing through parthenogenesis.
Identification
- Color: Dark brown body with lighter wing margins
- Size: 0.75 to 1 inch (19 to 25 mm)
- Wings: Present; flightless
- Body: Oval-shaped and glossy
- Antennae: Medium-length and fine
Habitat and Distribution
Localized mainly in Cuba, but similar to the general Pycnoscelus group. Found in moist soil, garden beds, potted plants, and decaying mulch.
Behavior and Diet
Burrows into loose, moist soil and feeds on organic debris, decaying vegetation, and mulch. Common in tropical agricultural zones and often transported with plant material.
18. Lobster Cockroach (Nauphoeta cinerea)
The Lobster cockroach, also known as the Speckled roach, is a fast-moving species often used as feeder insects for reptiles. Its name comes from the dark, speckled pattern on its back, which resembles a lobster shell.
Identification
- Color: Grayish-tan with darker speckles
- Size: 0.75 to 1 inch (19 to 25 mm)
- Wings: Fully developed; males may glide
- Body: Oval and flat with a shiny exoskeleton
- Antennae: Long and sensitive
Habitat and Distribution
Native to Africa, now bred and distributed globally, especially in the pet and feeder insect trade. Found in leaf litter, storage areas, and controlled enclosures.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on dry food scraps, decaying material, and grains. Known for being non-aggressive, fast-moving, and easy to breed, making them a popular choice for feeding reptiles and amphibians.
19. Giant Burrowing Cockroach (Macropanesthia rhinoceros)
The Giant Burrowing cockroach, also called the Rhinoceros cockroach, is one of the heaviest cockroaches in the world. Native to Australia, it lives entirely underground and is a favorite in insect collections due to its massive size and gentle nature.
Identification
- Color: Dark brown, smooth and shiny
- Size: Up to 3.3 inches (85 mm) and over 1 ounce (30g)
- Wings: Absent; flightless
- Body: Heavy, broad, and curved
- Antennae: Short and thick
Habitat and Distribution
Found in Queensland, Australia, especially in eucalyptus forests, where it burrows deep into sandy soils. Lives in permanent burrows and rarely comes to the surface.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on dried eucalyptus leaves and decaying plant matter. It is slow-moving and non-aggressive, and can live up to 10 years, making it one of the longest-living roach species.
20. Red-Headed Cockroach (Periplaneta brunnea)
The Red-Headed cockroach, sometimes called the Brown cockroach, is often mistaken for the American cockroach due to its similar size. It is primarily found outdoors and is known for its reddish head and thorax.
Identification
- Color: Reddish-brown with a distinct red or chestnut-colored head
- Size: 1.5 to 2 inches (38 to 50 mm)
- Wings: Fully developed and extend past the abdomen
- Body: Flat, oval, and glossy
- Antennae: Long and thin
Habitat and Distribution
Native to Central and South America, now present in southern United States, especially Florida and Gulf Coast regions. Found in woodpiles, mulch beds, tree bark, and under loose siding.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on decaying leaves, wood, and organic waste. Prefers warm, moist environments and may enter homes in search of food or shelter.
21. Pale-Bordered Field Cockroach (Pseudomops septentrionalis)
The Pale-Bordered Field cockroach is a small, active outdoor species known for the light margins along its body and wings. It is not considered a household pest and spends its life outdoors in grassy or wooded areas.
Identification
- Color: Dark brown to black with pale edges along wings and thorax
- Size: 0.5 to 0.75 inches (13 to 19 mm)
- Wings: Present and functional
- Body: Slender and fast-moving
- Antennae: Long and threadlike
Habitat and Distribution
Found in North and Central America, especially in fields, gardens, and forest floors. Prefers moist leaf litter, under rocks, and soil-rich ground layers.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on decaying plant matter and small bits of organic debris. Rarely enters buildings and is considered beneficial in natural decomposition processes.
22. Spotted Mediterranean Cockroach (Ectobius vittiventris)
The Spotted Mediterranean cockroach is a small, outdoor-dwelling species known for its light brown color and faint spots. Unlike many pest species, it prefers living outside and is considered harmless to humans.
Identification
- Color: Pale tan to light brown with faint dark spots on wings
- Size: 0.4 to 0.6 inches (10 to 15 mm)
- Wings: Fully developed; capable of short flight
- Body: Slender and lightweight
- Antennae: Long and flexible
Habitat and Distribution
Native to the Mediterranean region, now found in parts of central and western Europe, especially in gardens, meadows, and forest edges.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on dead leaves, grass clippings, and decomposing plants. It is active during warm evenings and often flies toward lights, but it does not breed or infest indoor environments.
23. Tawny Cockroach (Ectobius pallidus)
The Tawny cockroach is a non-pest European species, recognized for its pale tan to yellowish color and presence in grassy and woodland areas. It’s often mistaken for pest roaches but is completely harmless indoors.
Identification
- Color: Tawny, pale brown, or straw-colored
- Size: 0.4 to 0.6 inches (10 to 15 mm)
- Wings: Fully developed and used for gliding
- Body: Soft-bodied and oval
- Antennae: Long and slender
Habitat and Distribution
Native to Europe, especially common in Britain, France, and Germany. Found in hedgerows, meadows, compost heaps, and near fallen leaves and vegetation.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on organic plant debris and decaying material. It lives entirely outdoors and is not attracted to indoor environments, making it ecologically beneficial and non-invasive.
24. Amazon Cockroach (Blaberus parabolicus)
The Amazon cockroach is a large, tropical species native to South America, known for its smooth, oval body and gentle nature. It is often kept in insect collections or as a feeder species due to its size and slow movement.
Identification
- Color: Light brown to tan with darker central markings
- Size: 2 to 2.5 inches (50 to 64 mm)
- Wings: Fully developed; capable of gliding
- Body: Broad, smooth, and oval
- Antennae: Long and thick
Habitat and Distribution
Native to the Amazon rainforest and other humid areas of northern South America, found in leaf litter, decaying logs, and forest floors.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on rotting plant material, fruits, and decomposing organic matter. It is non-aggressive, quiet, and easy to handle, making it popular among cockroach keepers.
25. Indian Sand Cockroach (Polyphaga aegyptiaca)
The Indian Sand cockroach is a burrowing desert species adapted to dry, arid regions. It is relatively uncommon in homes and is primarily found beneath the surface of sandy soils.
Identification
- Color: Light tan to brown
- Size: 0.75 to 1 inch (19 to 25 mm)
- Wings: Males have wings; females are wingless
- Body: Cylindrical, adapted for burrowing
- Antennae: Shorter than typical roaches
Habitat and Distribution
Found in India, Egypt, and parts of North Africa and the Middle East, particularly in deserts, dunes, and sandy grasslands.
Behavior and Diet
Burrows underground and feeds on organic particles in the sand, including decaying roots, fungi, and plant debris. It is nocturnal and reclusive, rarely seen on the surface.
26. Glossy Cockroach (Lucihormetica subcincta)
The Glossy cockroach is a striking, large species known for its shiny, reflective body and subtle banding. It’s a member of the glowspot cockroach group, although this particular species doesn’t glow. It is popular in cockroach collections and as a display species.
Identification
- Color: Shiny dark brown to black with lighter margins
- Size: 1.5 to 2 inches (38 to 50 mm)
- Wings: Present but not functional
- Body: Smooth, domed, and glossy
- Antennae: Medium-length, slightly curved
Habitat and Distribution
Native to South America, particularly in Colombia and surrounding regions. Typically found in leaf litter, forest floors, and decaying wood in humid tropical habitats.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on rotting wood, fruit, and plant matter. Slow-moving, non-aggressive, and often kept for education or ornamental purposes due to its shiny exoskeleton.
27. Harlequin Cockroach (Neostylopyga rhombifolia)
The Harlequin cockroach is easily recognized by its bold, colorful pattern of spots and stripes. It is an ornamental species and sometimes escapes into urban environments but is not a major household pest.
Identification
- Color: Reddish-brown with yellow or orange markings
- Size: 0.75 to 1 inch (19 to 25 mm)
- Wings: Fully developed; capable of short flights
- Body: Oval and patterned like a harlequin costume
- Antennae: Long and highly mobile
Habitat and Distribution
Found in India, Southeast Asia, and parts of Africa, and introduced to Hawaii, southern U.S., and tropical islands. Found near buildings, leaf litter, and refuse piles.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on decaying food, crumbs, and plant waste. Attracted to warm, moist areas, but does not usually reproduce indoors in cooler climates.
28. Orange-Headed Cockroach (Eublaberus posticus)
The Orange-Headed cockroach is a large, tropical species often used in the pet trade as feeder insects due to their size, hardiness, and cleanliness. It is named for its bright orange or reddish head, contrasting with its darker body.
Identification
- Color: Orange to reddish head with a dark brown to black body
- Size: 1.5 to 2 inches (38 to 50 mm)
- Wings: Present but not used for flying
- Body: Thick, oval, and glossy
- Antennae: Medium-length and curved
Habitat and Distribution
Native to Central and South America, especially in rainforests and humid lowland regions. Typically found in leaf litter, compost piles, and under logs.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on fruits, vegetables, decaying leaves, and organic waste. Known for being clean, odorless, and non-aggressive, making it ideal for captivity and controlled breeding.
29. Domed Cockroach (Blaberus discoidalis)
The Domed cockroach, also known as the Discoid cockroach, is a wide-bodied, dome-shaped species commonly used as a feeder insect. It is often mistaken for the death’s head roach due to their similar appearance.
Identification
- Color: Light brown with a darker central shield pattern
- Size: 1.5 to 2 inches (38 to 50 mm)
- Wings: Fully developed; glides but doesn’t fly well
- Body: Wide and domed
- Antennae: Long and thin
Habitat and Distribution
Native to Central America and northern South America, now bred in captivity across the globe. Found in humid leaf litter, compost, and rotting wood.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on rotting fruit, vegetables, and leaf matter. Non-aggressive and ideal for handling or feeding to reptiles, as they do not climb smooth surfaces or infest homes.
30. Blaberus giganteus
The Blaberus giganteus, also known as the Giant Cave cockroach or Giant Central American cockroach, is one of the largest cockroach species in the world. It is known for its broad wings, impressive size, and passive behavior.
Identification
- Color: Light brown to tan with a dark central marking
- Size: 3 to 4 inches (76 to 100 mm)
- Wings: Fully developed; can glide short distances
- Body: Flat, oval, and very large
- Antennae: Long and tapering
Habitat and Distribution
Native to Central and South America, especially in tropical forests and caves. Found in rotting logs, leaf litter, and underground spaces with high humidity.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on decaying organic matter, fallen fruit, and dead insects. Known for being docile, slow-moving, and quiet, making it popular in educational and exotic pet environments.
31. Panchlora nivea
Also known as the Green Banana cockroach, Panchlora nivea is a small, bright green species that lives in warm, humid climates. Though previously listed under a common name, it is worth noting again here by its scientific name.
Identification
- Color: Bright green with transparent wings
- Size: 0.75 to 1 inch (19 to 25 mm)
- Wings: Long and slender, cover the body completely
- Body: Slim and leaf-like
- Antennae: Long and threadlike
Habitat and Distribution
Native to Cuba, Central America, and northern South America, now also found in southern U.S. states. Inhabits tropical gardens, fruit trees, and banana plants.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on rotting fruits, vegetables, and leaf litter. Harmless and non-invasive; frequently found around compost piles and lights at night.
32. Eublaberus posticus (Orange-Spotted Cockroach)
Often referred to interchangeably with the Orange-Headed cockroach, Eublaberus posticus is sometimes specifically noted as the Orange-Spotted cockroach due to the faint orange markings on the wings and abdomen. It is a large, burrowing species used in breeding colonies and as reptile feeders.
Identification
- Color: Reddish-orange highlights with dark brown to black wings
- Size: 1.5 to 2 inches (38 to 50 mm)
- Wings: Present but rarely used for flying
- Body: Oval and glossy with visible orange spots
- Antennae: Moderately long and responsive
Habitat and Distribution
Native to Central America and the northern parts of South America, commonly found in forest leaf litter, compost piles, and under rotting logs.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on organic debris, decaying leaves, fruits, and fungi. Burrowing and non-climbing, making it ideal for containment in captive breeding setups.
33. Therea petiveriana (Domino Cockroach)
The Domino cockroach, named for its distinctive white spots on a black body, is a striking ground-dwelling species often kept as a display insect due to its bold pattern and calm nature.
Identification
- Color: Jet black with large white circular spots (like dominoes)
- Size: 0.75 to 1 inch (19 to 25 mm)
- Wings: Present but non-functional
- Body: Flattened and rounded
- Antennae: Long and curved
Habitat and Distribution
Native to India, particularly in dry forests, leaf litter, and scrublands. Prefers warm and semi-arid conditions with access to hiding spaces.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on dry leaves, bark, decaying wood, and other plant matter. Slow-moving and often freezes when disturbed, relying on camouflage and stillness for defense.
34. Elliptorhina chopardi (Chopard’s Hissing Cockroach)
Elliptorhina chopardi is a large, wingless cockroach native to Madagascar and a close relative of the Madagascar Hissing Cockroach. It is known for its ability to produce a loud hissing sound, used for communication and defense.
Identification
- Color: Dark brown to black with a matte texture
- Size: 2 to 3 inches (50 to 76 mm)
- Wings: Absent in both sexes
- Body: Thick, armored, and segmented
- Antennae: Thick and slightly curved
Habitat and Distribution
Native to Madagascar, typically found in leaf litter, under logs, and in humid forest environments.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on rotting wood, fruit, and leaf litter. It hisses by expelling air through abdominal spiracles, often during mating, handling, or when threatened. Popular in the pet trade and educational displays.
35. Gyna lurida (Pale Speckled Cockroach)
The Pale Speckled cockroach, or Gyna lurida, is a small, beautifully patterned roach with speckled wings. It is a fast-moving, climbing species that is often raised in captivity for feeding or display.
Identification
- Color: Pale tan to gray with dark speckles and mottling
- Size: 0.75 to 1 inch (19 to 25 mm)
- Wings: Fully developed; good fliers
- Body: Slim and delicate
- Antennae: Long and fine
Habitat and Distribution
Native to Africa, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. Inhabits leaf litter, bark crevices, and rotting logs.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on fruits, vegetables, and plant debris. Known for its quick movements and flight capability, often requiring secure enclosures in captivity.
36. Blaptica dubia (Dubia Cockroach)
The Dubia cockroach is one of the most popular species in the reptile feeder industry due to its high nutritional value, inability to climb smooth surfaces, and calm behavior. It is easy to breed and maintain, making it ideal for captive colonies.
Identification
- Color: Dark brown to black with lighter brown wings (males)
- Size: 1.5 to 2 inches (38 to 50 mm)
- Wings: Males have long wings (do not fly); females have small wing stubs
- Body: Oval, soft, and slightly flattened
- Antennae: Long and straight
Habitat and Distribution
Native to Central and South America, particularly in Brazil, Argentina, and Guyana. In captivity, they are found worldwide as feeder insects.
Behavior and Diet
Feeds on fruits, grains, vegetables, and protein sources. Non-climbing and non-flying, they are quiet, odorless, and ideal for breeding, making them one of the most widely used cockroaches in the exotic pet industry.
