How Do Cockroach Reproduce?
WouterThere are two ways that cockroaches reproduce: through asexual reproduction and sexual reproduction. During sexual reproduction, male cockroaches produce chemicals that attract female cockroaches to reproduce. Female cockroaches then continue to lay eggs, creating a new generation.
The female cockroach produces 200-300 eggs throughout her life. When food is scarce, cockroaches may engage in cannibalism. In such cases, stronger roaches feed on the weaker. This can pose problems for pest control professionals. It is not known whether female cockroaches lay eggs automatically, but the eggs will stop developing if the mother dies.
Both sexes produce pheromones that attract partners. Cockroaches also engage in courtship rituals. Females of the American cockroach will raise their wings and expand their genital chambers. Male cockroaches will approach and back into the female cockroach’s ootheca, depositing sperm in her genitals.
Female roaches lay eggs inside a protective protein capsule called an ootheca. The roaches then deposit their sperm into the female and fertilize her eggs. Most species of cockroaches are oviparous, meaning that they lay eggs. The egg capsule contains enough water for the baby roaches to survive until hatching. Once the eggs hatch, the baby roaches can forage for food and water.
Cockroaches are omnivorous, and their preferred food sources are carbohydrates, meat, and starches. They can also feed on leather, books, and other objects. If food is scarce, they may bite humans and animals. This is not a big concern if there are other food sources.
