Scientific name: Periplaneta australasiae Family: Blattidae Order: Blattodea Risk level: High Category: Insect
? What is the Australian cockroach
Scientific name: Periplaneta australasiae
Family: Blattidae
Order: Blattodea
Risk level: High
Category: Insect
The Australian cockroach (Periplaneta australasiae) resembles the American cockroach in overall appearance and measures 23–35 mm. Its key identifying feature is the distinct yellow markings along the outer edges of its forewings. It prefers warm tropical areas and does not tolerate cold. It is commonly found in warehouses, greenhouses and indoor planting areas.
Life cycle of the Australian cockroach
Its life cycle is similar to that of the American cockroach. The ootheca contains 24 eggs, and nymphal development takes 6–12 months.
Distribution of the Australian cockroach
It is widespread in tropical and subtropical regions. In the Gulf, it is found in greenhouses, gardening centers, warehouses storing tropical goods and restaurants with indoor landscaping.
Health risks and related problems
It is a mechanical carrier of disease. It can also damage plants by directly feeding on leaves and roots.
Signs of an Australian cockroach infestation
Its yellow wing markings help identify it. Other signs include droppings in plant areas and oothecae in soil and among plant roots.
Where Australian cockroaches are found
They are found in warm warehouses and greenhouses, behind large plant pots, and in storage areas with high humidity.
Australian cockroach control methods
Inspect shipments of plants and tropical furniture. Treat warehouses and greenhouses with spray, and manage organic waste.
Australian cockroach control products
Deltamethrin for residual spraying, gel baits and insect growth regulators.
Requirements for controlling Australian cockroaches in food facilities
FSSC/BRCGS: include this pest in pest-control plans for goods warehouses and food-processing facilities.
A fact about the Australian cockroach
Despite its name, there is no evidence that this species originated in Australia. It too spread there aboard commercial ships from tropical Africa.
Frequently asked questions about the Australian cockroach
Q: How can I tell the Australian cockroach from the American cockroach?
A: The yellow markings along the wings are the main distinguishing feature. The Australian cockroach is slightly smaller and more closely associated with plants.
Q: Is it common in homes in the Gulf?
A: It is less common than the American cockroach and is found mainly in warehouses, greenhouses and gardening centers