American Cockroach vs Ivory-headed Cockroach
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | American Cockroach | Ivory-headed Cockroach |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Periplaneta americana | Eublaberus posticus |
| Order | Blattodea | Blattodea |
| Family | Blattidae | Blaberidae |
| Size | 35-53 mm | 40-50mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Caves |
| Diet | Omnivores | Detritivores |
| Regions | Worldwide | South America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
American Cockroach
Despite its name, native to Africa. One of the largest common cockroaches. Can run at 5.4 km/h — proportionally, one of the fastest land insects. Can survive weeks without its head.
Did You Know?
A cockroach can live for a week without its head — it breathes through spiracles on its body and only dies because it cannot drink water.
Ivory-headed Cockroach
A large cockroach with a distinctive cream-colored pronotum contrasting with dark brown wings. It is a burrowing species that digs into soil and leaf litter. It is commonly used as a feeder insect.
Did You Know?
Its pale ivory head contrasting with the dark body makes it look like it is wearing a tiny helmet.