Latin name: Blattodea (order – includes multiple pest species)
Cockroaches are one of the most common urban pests in Australia and are found in homes, commercial buildings, hospitality venues, and landscaped environments nationwide. Several species are well adapted to warm, humid conditions and have become persistent pests in both indoor and outdoor settings.
Cockroaches are scavenging insects that feed on organic matter, food scraps, grease, paper, and decaying plant material. Their ability to survive on minimal resources and hide in small cracks makes them particularly difficult to control once established.
Common pest species in Australia include the German cockroach (Blattella germanica), American cockroach (Periplaneta americana), Australian cockroach (Periplaneta australasiae), and Oriental cockroach (Blatta orientalis).
Cockroaches are most active during warmer months. In Western Australia, increased temperatures and humidity—especially in spring and summer—create ideal conditions for cockroach activity and rapid population growth.
Lifecycle
The cockroach lifecycle consists of egg, nymph, and adult stages and can take several weeks to many months depending on species and environmental conditions.
- Eggs are contained in an egg case (ootheca) carried by or deposited by the female
- Nymphs hatch from the egg case and resemble smaller, wingless adults
- Nymphs moult multiple times as they grow
- Adults emerge with fully developed wings (in most species) and begin reproducing
Under favourable conditions, cockroaches reproduce rapidly and multiple generations can occur each year, leading to large infestations if not managed early.
Identification
- Size varies by species, typically 12–40 mm long
- Flattened, oval-shaped body
- Colour ranges from light brown to dark reddish-brown or black
- Long antennae and fast-moving legs
- Most species have wings, though not all are strong fliers
- Nocturnal – usually seen at night or when disturbed
Cockroaches are excellent at hiding and often remain unnoticed until populations are well established.
Damage
Cockroaches are primarily a health and hygiene pest rather than a plant pest.
- Contaminate food and surfaces with bacteria, including Salmonella and E. coli
- Leave droppings, smear marks, and shed skins
- Produce a strong, unpleasant odour in heavy infestations
- Trigger allergies and asthma, particularly in children and sensitive individuals
- Damage paper goods, packaging, fabrics, and insulation materials
Infestations can escalate quickly if food sources, moisture, and harbourage are not addressed.
SOLUTIONS
Systemic: Azamax Organic Insecticide
