German Cockroach (Blattella germanica)

German cockroaches have sticky pads on the feet can climb smooth surfaces easily. Once established the insect is often difficult to eradicate due to it hiding in inaccessible places. It prefers warm, moist environments, especially heating systems in large buildings, bakeries etc.

Identification:
Adult size 13-16mm in length. Light brown in colour with two dark almost parallel longitudinal stripes on their pronotal shield.

Biology:
The ootheca (egg case), containing 35-40 eggs, is carried by the female until it is within one to two days of hatching. Small 1st instar nymphs emerge from the ootheca and easily infest tiny cracks and crevices in the immediate area. A female may produce four to six cases during her lifetime, each containing 30 to 40 eggs. Eggs hatch in 28 to 30 days, and nymphs develop in 40 to 125 days.

Control:
Effective treatment depends upon the selection and thorough application of a suitable insecticide gel bait. Many insects and egg cases are well hidden; therefore, the insecticide must be placed at and around their harbourages and maintained over the developmental period of the particular species. To control an infestation the insecticide should ideally persist until all egg cases have hatched but continued immigration may demand routine treatments. A high standard of hygiene is important in the control of cockroaches and involves the following components: Deny access to food and water Deny access to harbourages in buildings or equipment. Practice improved hygiene Monitoring of incoming materials including packaging and laundry.

Products to control German Cockroach: