American Cockroach

Hexapoda, Blattodea, Blatellidae

Description: Large rust-brown insect with a flattened body and long wings (adults) and antennae. Adult males and females look similar. Adults look very similar to Turkistan roaches, but American roaches are considerably larger. Immature stages are tan, and look very similar to immature Oriental roaches and immature Turkistan roaches.

Geographic Distribution: Throughout southern New Mexico. Introduced to North America from Asia.

Habitats: Mostly inside of houses and buildings. Outside, but near buildings in the summer. Usually associated with moisture such as plumbing.

Biology: Adults and immature stages occur year-round in buildings, but outdoors only during the summer months.

Health/pest Status: American roaches live in buildings and are considered house pests.