Why is Cockroach Called Cockroach?
The word “cockroach” comes from Spanish and is a common slang term. It is derived from the word “cucaracha,” which means “wood louse.” This word was originally used to describe the palmetto bug or sow bug. Later, Mexicans used it to describe the regular cockroach.
There are over 4,000 species of cockroaches, although most of these are harmless to humans. The word “cockroach” is a mispronunciation of the Spanish word “cucaracha,” a reference to the folk song “La Cucaracha.” The Latin word cockroach comes from a family of insects called Blattodea, meaning “shy insect.” It is the only insect in the Blattodea family to not lay eggs in a nest.
Cockroaches are ancient insects with a number of habits that help them survive. They feed off their own feces and vomit, and have a dioecious lifestyle, laying eggs outside of their bodies. Some even carry their eggs until they hatch. They are highly specialized creatures, with different cell types and a fat body that stores nutrients.
A cockroach’s wings can fold over its body for protection from predators. These wings are also helpful for hiding and escape.