Cockroaches have roamed the earth for millions of years, and their resilience and adaptability have allowed them to thrive in nearly every environment across the globe. Today, there are more than 3,500 different species of cockroach in the world. But what do cockroaches look like? Are they all the same? While various species do share many of the same characteristics, there are things that are different from one roach to another. Learn what a roach looks like and how you can use key characteristics to identify them in your home.

Bunch of cockroaches together

Key characteristics of cockroaches

Cockroaches are one of the most common household pests you may encounter. Despite the vast number of species, several key physical characteristics can tell us what a cockroach looks like. All cockroaches have a distinctive flat, oval-shaped body that allows them to squeeze into very small spaces – a trait that aids in their survival in various environments. They are equipped with six long, spiny legs that not only contribute to their notorious speed and agility but also enable them to climb across different surfaces easily.

Another defining feature that can tell us what roaches look like is their long antennae, which they use extensively for navigation and detecting food sources in their surroundings. In terms of their ability to fly, it varies among different species. While most cockroaches have a pair of wings, not all are adept at flying. Some species, like the American cockroach, can use their wings to fly short distances or glide, whereas others, such as the German cockroach, use their wings to slow their descent.

Cockroach on sink

Male vs. female roaches

The differences between male and female cockroaches are not always immediately obvious to the untrained eye. A few traits can help tell us what male cockroaches look like, such as their longer, more slender bodies and the presence of longer wings that extend beyond their body length. Females, on the other hand, tend to have broader, more rounded bodies and shorter wings that do not surpass their abdomen's end. Additionally, in some species, the shape and size of the abdomen can help tell us what each roach looks like; males often have a more tapered abdomen, whereas females present a more rounded one.

Eggs and nymphs

Cockroach eggs are typically encapsulated in a structure known as an ootheca, which is a hard, protective case that the female lays or attaches to a safe surface. The ootheca's color and size may vary depending on the species, but they are generally dark brown and can contain anywhere from a few to over 50 eggs. The eggs inside are neatly packed and remain in the ootheca until they are ready to hatch.

When the eggs hatch, they release nymphs, which are essentially baby cockroaches. These nymphs are usually white or pale in color immediately after emerging but quickly darken to a brown or black shade as their exoskeleton hardens. These baby cockroaches look like adult cockroaches but are smaller, lack wings, and undergo several molts, shedding their exoskeleton as they grow larger.

Identifying common types of roaches

While there are about 69 types of cockroaches commonly found by pest control specialists, the four most common species in the United States are the American, brown-banded, German, and Oriental cockroaches. Here’s what these cockroaches look like:

American

The American cockroach is a reddish-brown colored species of cockroach that can grow up to one and a half inches or more in length. They prefer warm, damp environments and are often found in dark places such as basements, sewers, and drainage systems. Although they are named "American" cockroaches, they are found worldwide due to global trade and their adaptability. They are more prevalent in the southern US states due to the warmer climate but can survive indoors in cooler areas.

American cockroach on white background

Brown-banded

The Brown-banded cockroaches are small, measuring about half of an inch in length, with a light brown color and two lighter bands across their wings and abdomen. They prefer warmer, drier locations and can be found in various parts of a building or home, not just kitchens and bathrooms. They are prevalent in the warmer regions of the United States but are found worldwide.

Cockroach image upclose

German

The German cockroach is a common and persistent pest that can be identified by its small size, light brown or tan color, and two dark stripes running from head to wings. They prefer warm, humid environments close to food and water sources, making kitchens and bathrooms ideal habitats. They are found worldwide and can be found wherever there are human habitations, from apartments and homes to restaurants and hotels.

Cockroach from the side

Oriental

The Oriental cockroach, also known as the "water bug," is a larger species of cockroach that prefers cool and moist environments. They are distinguishable by their dark brown to almost black color, glossy body, and the lack of fully developed wings in females. They are commonly found in basements, drains, and other damp locations.

Oriental Cockroach

Cockroach control with Terminix

With all types of roaches, seeing one may mean that there are many more hiding out of sight. Cockroach identification is important, and it is best to work with a pest management professional to check for the source of an infestation and help you arrive at a treatment solution. Get started with cockroach control today!