Where Does Cockroaches Get Their Name?
WouterCockroaches have over 4,000 species and are classified within the insect order Blattodea. Their ectognathous mouthparts differentiate them from other arthropods. Their names are often mispronounced or confused with the Latin word blatta, which means “cockroach.” Although they are not winged insects, their flattened oval bodies, thread-like antennae, and leathery integument help them move around.
Cockroaches are classified into three families. The first is the Blattidae, which contains household cockroaches. The second family, the Tryonicidae, contains cockroaches that emit a foul odor. Blattidae consists of three genera: Blattidae, Blattodea, and Blattodea. Blattodea includes the American cockroach (Periplaneta americana), the German cockroach (Blattalagermanica), and the Asian cockroach (Pycnoscelussurinamensis).
Cockroaches are related to other insects and arthropods, but they are distantly related to crustaceans. In fact, pancrustacean phylogeny supports the notion that they are sister-groups of Hexa. Despite their close resemblance to other animals, cockroaches have evolved to serve human needs.
The American cockroach shares a similar appearance with its European cousin, except that it is smaller. The male has larger wings. These cockroaches are often found hiding in furniture and other items, and are capable of living for five to six months. They consume starchy foods and have a preference for nylon stockings.
Some cockroaches make a loud noise to attract potential mates. One species, the Madagascar hissing cockroach, is so named because of its distinctive sound. It makes a loud hissing noise when forced to exhale. Another species, the Cuban cockroach, is pale green and has yellow stripes on its sides.
