Structures of Cockroaches
WouterA cockroach’s head consists of a triangular structure, formed by the fusion of six segments. The head is equipped with a pair of compound eyes, which have a large central opening surrounded by a pair of membranous sockets. In addition, antennae protrude from the head, where they serve as sensory receptors. Other structures on the cockroach head include the hypopharynx, which acts like a tongue.
The cockroach’s genital pouch is comprised of two halves, each containing two gonopores and an accessory reproductive gland. The gonopores are surrounded by chitinous asymmetrical structures called oothecae. The hindgut contains an ileum, rectum, and colon. The cockroach’s nervous system consists of a frontal ganglion and a pair of spiracles that open and close from the abdominal segments two to six.
The thorax of a cockroach consists of three parts: the head and the thorax. The head is connected to the thorax via the prothorax and the mesothorax. These parts give rise to the first and second pairs of wings. The thorax also contains a long, coiled alimentary canal and anal cerci.
The legs of a cockroach are large and powerful. They extend outward from the thoracic segments, and are similar in structure from anterior to posterior. Cockroach legs also have strong spines. The tarsus consists of five articulate tarsomeres. Each tarsomere has a pair of tarsal claws at the tip and a pad-like arolium at the base.
