German cockroach facts you should know
Cockroaches are unpleasant and unwelcome guests, but understanding them is the first step to eliminating them effectively. If you suspect a German cockroach infestation in your home or business in the UAE, here are some key facts that will help you identify the issue and take the right steps.
1. German cockroaches have a distinctive appearance
These roaches may appear similar to other species at first glance. Light brown to tan in colour with six legs, long antennae, and a flat, oval-shaped body, adult German cockroaches typically grow to about 1.5 cm in length.
Their most defining feature? Two dark parallel stripes run down their backs. While harder to identify in the nymph stage, adults are fairly distinguishable. If you’re unsure which type of cockroach you’re dealing with, PROSHIELD’s expert technicians can help with identification and treatment.
2. They prefer dark, damp, and warm areas
German cockroaches are commonly found in:
- Kitchens (under sinks, behind appliances, inside cabinets)
- Bathrooms (around drains and plumbing)
- Storage rooms (among cardboard and paper items)
They thrive in high humidity, warmth, and near food and water sources. If you want to pest-proof your property, start by focusing on these key hotspots.
3. German cockroaches carry harmful diseases
These pests don’t just look unpleasant—they pose a serious health risk. German cockroaches are known to carry:
- Over 30 types of bacteria
- 7 human pathogens
- 6 varieties of parasites
They spread contaminants on surfaces and in food preparation areas, often after crawling through sewers, rubbish bins, and drains. Regular cleaning helps, but professional pest control ensures complete protection.
4. They can survive without their heads
Cockroaches breathe through small openings called spiracles along their body segments. This means they don’t need their heads to breathe and can survive for days after decapitation. Ultimately, they die from dehydration, not injury. This level of resilience is why DIY treatments often fail—expert intervention is necessary for reliable elimination.
5. German cockroaches reproduce rapidly
Each female produces a capsule (ootheca) containing 35 to 40 eggs. She carries it for about a month before dropping it just before hatching. Within weeks, a few cockroaches can turn into a full-blown infestation. If eggs are already present, over-the-counter sprays won’t solve the problem; you’ll need a professional solution to stop the life cycle.
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Think you may have German cockroaches in your home or workplace? Don’t wait for the infestation to worsen.
German cockroaches are persistent, fast-reproducing, and dangerous to your health. Getting rid of them requires targeted solutions and expert handling. At PROSHIELD, our municipality-approved technicians use safe, effective methods to eliminate infestations and prevent their return.
We provide:
- Detailed inspections
- Custom treatment plans
- Discreet and professional service
- Long-term protection for homes and businesses
Contact PROSHIELD today to schedule your pest control service and enjoy a cleaner, healthier environment.
