Why Are Cockroaches Always on Their Backs?

If you’ve ever wondered why cockroaches always lie on their backs, you aren’t the only one. Cockroaches have very long legs and a high center of gravity. This helps them manage their backs quite well when they’re young, but as they age, their muscles weaken and they find it difficult to right themselves.

Cockroaches are typically nocturnal, meaning they spend their time in tight, dark places. After dark, they come out to search for food. They can also move around, so it is important to keep track of where you’ve noticed cockroaches.

Cockroaches are known to feign death to survive. Scientists refer to this behavior as thanatosis. While cockroaches don’t easily drown, they can survive for up to 30 minutes underwater. Cockroaches can even survive decapitation, so it is important to be patient. Cockroaches don’t know they’re dead, but they will still respond to certain stimuli, such as a light or a vibration.

If you notice cockroaches on their backs, it is likely that the chemicals they consume are affecting their nervous system. These poisons work by inhibiting the enzyme cholinesterase. This enzyme breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This causes the cockroach to fall over, as the toxic chemicals cause the cockroach’s muscles to spasm.

When you notice cockroaches on their backs, you should also keep in mind that they may have been exposed to a toxin sprayed around the house. This poison is meant to kill disease vectors on the legs, but it also messes with the cockroach’s nervous system and internal circuitry.

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