What Family Do Cockroaches Belong To?
WouterCockroaches are members of the Blattodea order, which contains seven families, including Blattidae. They are cryptobiotic, meaning they have no specialized parts, such as wings. Termites have been thought of as separate families, but they are actually eusocial and are in the same order as cockroaches.
Cockroaches lay their eggs in a protective egg case called an ootheca. This case contains anywhere from 16 to fifty eggs. Some species lay up to four oothecae at a time. In most cases, the roaches drop the ootheca as soon as it forms, but some species carry the egg case until it hatches.
Cockroaches are common in the home and can cause many problems. Their odor and feces are unpleasant and they can spread bacteria and disease organisms. Their diet is made up of plant and animal matter. They also feed on human and animal waste, glue, hair, and fabrics. Cockroaches can contaminate food and can transmit disease organisms through their saliva.
Cockroaches are part of the Blattodea order of insects. There are over 4,000 species of cockroaches, and most do not interact with humans. Cockroaches are also known as cucarachas, which is the Spanish name for cockroaches. Despite their unappealing reputation, cockroaches are actually beneficial insects in a variety of ecosystems. Cockroaches typically prefer warm, sheltered areas to breed and live.
