As pest control professionals serving Sarasota homeowners, we often field questions about the most prevalent cockroach species that creep and crawl through Florida homes. It is important for homeowners to understand how to spot the different types of roaches here in Florida, as well as, the dangers they pose, their destructive tendencies, and the best practices for prevention and removal. Doing so will empower homeowners to reclaim their space and peace of mind. Though major infestations often warrant calling in a professional pest control expert, hopefully we can provide a few fundamental roach-fighting tid bits to keep them out of your home.
The Most Common Cockroach Species in Florida
German Cockroaches (Blattella germanica)
German cockroaches are the most common species found in Florida homes. We recognize the German cockroach by its small size, light brown color, and two dark parallel stripes on its pronotum. These cockroaches prefer warm, humid environments and are commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms. They are known to spread diseases such as dysentery, typhoid fever and can even poison food.
American Cockroaches (Periplaneta americana)
American cockroaches are the largest cockroach species in Florida. They are reddish brown in color and around 1.5 to 2 inches in length. American cockroaches live in sewers, basements, and crawl spaces. They usually emerge at night in search of food and water. Their droppings and saliva contain allergens that can trigger allergic reactions and asthma attacks in humans.
Brownbanded Cockroaches (Supella longipalpa)
Brownbanded cockroaches are identified by the two light bands across their dark brown abdomen. They infest locations high up in buildings, such as in cabinets, behind picture frames, and in wall voids. Brownbanded cockroaches carry disease-causing pathogens and their droppings can contaminate food. These cockroaches are difficult to control due to their ability to hide in inaccessible areas.
Dangers of a Cockroach Infestation
There are numerous dangers cockroaches pose to homeowners and their families. Cockroaches are known to transmit diseases and bacteria such as Salmonella, dysentery and gastroenteritis. Their droppings and saliva contain allergens that can trigger asthma attacks, especially in children.
Disease Transmission
Cockroaches feed on rotten, decaying organic matter and human waste, then crawl over surfaces in homes. This allows them to pick up disease-causing organisms on their legs and bodies and transport them to food preparation areas, contaminating surfaces they contact. Proper sanitation and sealing up entry points is the best way to reduce these disease risks.
Structural Damage
While not as destructive as termites, large cockroach infestations can cause structural damage to buildings and property. Cockroaches secrete a substance that degrades certain building materials like wallpaper glue or book bindings. They may also chew through wiring, damaging electrical systems. Their droppings can also stain and damage surfaces. Controlling cockroach populations helps prevent lasting damage.
Psychological Impact
Lastly, it goes without saying that the presence of cockroaches in a home environment can obviously lead to anxiety, stress and insomnia for residents. Cockroach sightings or the thought of an unseen infestation leads to uneasiness and a sense of uncleanness in the home. Professional pest control treatment can help provide peace of mind and helps create a cockroach-free living space.
How Can Homeowners Prevent Infestations of the Different Cockroach Species?
We recommend homeowners take proactive measures to prevent cockroach infestations like practicing good home owner hygiene.
Check your home and seal up any cracks or crevices leading into the home.
Store food in airtight containers and clean up food waste and spills immediately.
Repair leaky pipes and ensure all entry points like doors, windows, pipes, and foundations are properly sealed.
Bait gel or boric acid powder can also be applied in areas where cockroaches travel as a preventative measure.
These steps, along with regular professional pest control treatments, will help homeowners avoid the dangers of a cockroach infestation.
If You Are Concerned About A Roach Problem, Call Super D Pest Control Fast!
On average, a single female cockroach lays about 220 eggs over the course of 14 weeks. In as little as three months, a home owner can have an infestation on their hands, just from one roach. Unfortunately, infestations of cockroaches are a reality in Florida's warm, humid climate. While methods like cleaning and exclusion can help deter roaches, major infestations often require professional pest control. If you think you might have a problem with roaches, call Super D Pest Control for a free estimate at (727) 433-5310 or click "Let's Chat" below to contact us on the web. By learning to identify common roaches and understanding their dangers, homeowners can better protect their families and properties.