Fun Facts About Cockroaches

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cockroach near drain

There are many phobias, but the katsaridaphobia is one many people have…The Fear of Cockroaches. The roach is one of the most feared pests that terrorize homes and businesses. This fear is not unfounded because this pest carries germs and bacteria and not only can infest your home, but can trigger allergies and asthma. So, because we share the world with this very scary pest, lets learn some Fun Facts about Cockroaches.

How old are Cockroaches?

Well, to put it into perspective, the cockroaches are older than dinosaurs. Recent studies estimate that they have been around as early as 359 million years ago.

What is the most common species of Cockroach?

There are over 4000 species of cockroaches that creepy crawl the earth, but you will be happy to know that on 70 can be found in the United States. Of those 70, the most common are the American, Australasian, Brown-Banded, German, Oriental and smoky brown. But, the German Cockroach is the most common. The German Roach grows to adulthood in 123 days this is why there are so many of them. Also, if you really fear them, consider moving to Antarctica because it is the only place on earth where they do not reside. 

Do Roaches fly?

Yep! It is more of a glide, but once the wings come out, you will believe. But, do not worry, not all roaches have wings and fly, only some like the American roach.

How big can a Roach get?

The size of a roach definitely impacts how scary it is. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the longest cockroach is the Megaloblatta longipennis which is found in Central and South America. It can grow up to 3.8 inches long with an 8 inch wingspan. Just remember a ruler is 12 inches so the roach will look like a bird flying.

Why do Cockroaches die on their backs?

Basically, a roach is pretty top heavy. When a roach is dying, its high center of gravity pulls its back towards the floor and its rounded back and weakened muscles prevent it from righting itself. So, it dies on its back. 

How long can a Roach live without food or water?

Unfortunately, you will not be able to siege a roach. They can live several weeks without food and a week without water. The larger ones can go even longer.

What do Roaches eat?

A roach can eat just about anything. They enjoy human food quite a lot, but if that is not on the menu, dead insects, paper, cloth, wood, hair, and even poop will do. This is why you hear the joke that if the world ends, the roach will still survive. Did we mention they are cannibals?

Can a Roach survive a nuclear explosion?

Studies have shown that the roach can tolerate high levels of radiation. They can withstand a lot, but they cannot survive a nuclear explosion. Scientists believe they can withstand more than a human because the roach has a slower cell cycle and only molt once a week which has protected them.

How long can a Roach hold its breath?

A roach can hold its breath for 40 minutes. This means, when you flush the toilet, it will most likely survive the ride and come out alive on the other end.

How fast can a Cockroach run?

They can run up to three miles in an hour which means they can spread germs really quickly.

How long can a Roach live without its head?

Yes, a roach can live without its head. Depending on the species, they can live between a week and a month without it. The roach’s nervous system and organs are not centralized so they do not need it to survive. However, the roach will eventually die of dehydration and starvation.

Are Cockroaches edible?

Yes. People throughout the world enjoy them as a nice snack. In China, roaches are deep fried and sold on sticks. Tribes throughout the world will eat them live or cooked. However, local doctors warn against eating them especially alive because they do carry germs and other things that could be dangerous if consumed, especially alive.

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