In many people’s mind cockroach infestations are caused by filth; although, filth is a contributor to German, and Brown Banded cockroach infestations, other species like the American, Smoky Brown, and Oriental Cockroach sometimes called water bugs are caused by moisture and decaying wood.  Cock roaches pose a threat to human health by spreading allergens through their feces and body parts.

Cockroaches Commonly Found in Fort Worth

German Cockroaches [Blattella germanica] [Image]
German Cockroaches are usually the roaches that you find in your cabinets and pantry.  They can also spread disease and bacteria as they crawl through filth and onto eating and food surfaces.

• 1/2 to 5/8 inches long
• light brown to tan
• two parrellel stripes on head

American Cockroaches [Periplaneta American]
American Cockroaches: Commonly called “water bugs” these roaches are attracted to moist dark areas.  They prefer fermenting foods but will feed on other items as well.

• Adults are 1 to 1/2 inches long
• Reddish brown in color
• Fully winged
• Poor to moderate fliers

Smokey Brown Cockroaches [Periplaneta Fuliginosa] Prefer moist dark areas. Commonly found in tree holes, mulch beds, and plumbing areas. They typically feed on organic matter outside but once inside anything is fair game.

• Adults are 1 to 1/2 inches long
• Mahogany to black in color
• Fully winged
• Good Fliers

Oriental Cockroaches  [Blatta Orientalis] Commonly found under leaf litter or stones in yards these roaches also infest structures. They feed on decaying matter and prefer starchy foods.  

• 1 to 1 1/4 inch long
• Shiny black to dark brown
• Males have short wings 
• Have a strong odor