Why is a Cockroach Called a Cockroach?
Cockroaches breathe through a system of tubes known as tracheae. These tubes are similar to those leading to the lungs in humans. These tubes are attached to spiracles, which are small, valved openings on the body segments that exclude the head. When the CO2 levels in an insect rise, the spiracles open, allowing fresh oxygen to diffuse into the insect’s tracheae.
Cockroaches are classified according to their sex. Males have larger wings than females. The females are larger than males and are able to carry large clutches of eggs. A cockroach may have up to three generations per year.
Cockroaches have an important role in the food web. They scavenge for food and clean the environment. They also recycle organic litter. In addition, they feed on small mammals, birds, amphibians, and lizards. Their omnivorous nature makes them important members of the world’s biodiversity.
Female cockroaches are responsible for laying their eggs. The eggs are placed in a case called the ootheca. Female cockroaches lay up to 50 eggs in their lifetime. Their eggs are fertilized by the sperm of two sexes. Male cockroaches take care of their young after hatching. They scavenge food for their young. They also feed on bird feces, which is rich in nitrogen.
Cockroaches live in a warm, moist environment. In addition to their flattened oval bodies, they have long antennae and six legs covered with spines. They are not able to fly, so they need to feed in order to survive. A cockroach’s food is digested by releasing digestive enzymes. After this, the material is sent to the intestines where it can be absorbed by the body.