About 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.
How to Identify American Cockroach
American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana) belongs to the order Blattodea, family Blattidae. Adults typically measure 35-53 mm.
American Cockroach Habitat
American Cockroach is found in gardens habitats, particularly across Worldwide. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
American Cockroach Diet and Feeding
American Cockroach has an omnivorous diet, feeding on both plant and animal matter. This dietary flexibility allows it to exploit a wide range of food sources in its environment.
Where Is American Cockroach Found?
American Cockroach can be found in Worldwide, where it inhabits gardens environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where American Cockroach can be found
Is American Cockroach Dangerous?
American Cockroach is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
American Cockroach Role in Nature
American Cockroach plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like American Cockroach are a vital food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife, and contribute to the overall health and balance of their environment.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About American Cockroach
What does American Cockroach look like?
The American Cockroach typically measures 35-53 mm.
Where is American Cockroach found?
The American Cockroach is found in Worldwide and typically inhabits gardens environments.
What does American Cockroach eat?
The American Cockroach has an omnivorous diet, feeding on both plant and animal matter.
Is American Cockroach dangerous to humans?
The American Cockroach is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about American Cockroach?
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.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/american-cockroach
MLA:
"American Cockroach." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/american-cockroach.