Are There Any Benefits to Cockroaches?
WouterCockroaches are a beneficial pest, and there are several benefits of their presence. Several studies have shown that cockroaches can fight off bacteria and viruses. Cockroaches can also provide food to other animals, including birds and small mammals. Without these insects, some species of birds and other mammals would not survive.
Cockroaches also help maintain soil nitrogen levels by feeding on decaying organic matter. As they feed, they also trap atmospheric nitrogen, which is released back into the soil. Nitrogen is a key building block of life and essential for the growth of plants. Cockroaches also help pollinate plants in some regions of the world. This is a win-win situation for cockroaches and our planet!
Cockroaches are a good source of food, and they are cheap to raise compared to livestock. Furthermore, they produce less greenhouse gas than livestock, and they require less space, food, and water. Despite their bad reputation, cockroaches have many benefits that humans should take advantage of.
Cockroaches can also aid in the recycling of food waste. The Chinese have even used cockroaches to cure diseases. In the late 16th century, they were included in the Compendium of Materia Medica, the most comprehensive book of traditional Chinese medicine. Cockroaches have detoxifying properties and can help to relieve fluid buildup. Cockroaches can also help with diseases such as sore throat, tonsillitis, and liver cirrhosis. However, there are some Chinese medicine experts who warn against the industry being unregulated and prone to misuse.
