Maine is located in the Northeastern United States, well known for its jagged, rocky coastline and scenic waterways. It is also known for its seafood cuisine. The weather conditions here facilitate the breeding of cockroaches, and hence their existence is not rare in the state. The main species of cockroaches found here indoors is the German Cockroaches.
German Cockroach
Latin Name: Blattella germanica
Description
These cockroaches are a significant worry as they like indoor locations. These are small in size, ranging from 1/2 inch to 5/8 inch in length and medium yellowish-brown in color. German roaches can be distinguished from other cockroaches by two dark parallel stripes on the anterior, dorsal portion of the thorax.
Habitat
The preferred habitats by these cockroaches are Kitchens, bathrooms, and other locations that provide food, moisture, warmth, and shelter. These are most common in toilets, kitchen sinks, and commercial kitchen environments.
Lifecycle
The German cockroach breeds throughout the year and favors a humid environment. A life cycle takes about three months to complete. The German roach produces more eggs per capsule than other species, and its nymphs achieve their growth in a relatively shorter period. Female cockroaches carry their egg capsules until they are ready to hatch. The average incubation period is nearly 28 days, and the eggs in a single capsule are usually between 30 to 40. Females at room temperature may produce 4 to 5 capsules. The time for nymphs to mature to adults averages around 103 days. They progress through 6-7 instars in 60 days for males and 65 days for the females. The lifespan of these roaches is approximately 100 days.
The Other Species of Cockroaches found in Maine are:
1. American Cockroach
Latin Name: Periplaneta americana
Description
These cockroaches are giant up to 1.5 inches, have wings, and are reddish-brown with a lighter border over the head. These can fly short distances.
Habitat
They occur in the dark, damp, warm areas, often near steam pipes, in sewers, grease traps, wet basements, etc. They mostly happen to be in restaurants, grocery stores, bakeries, breweries, pet shops, and other establishments where food is prepared or stored.
Lifespan
They can survive for up to two years.
Brown- Banded Cockroach
Latin Name: Supella longipalpa
Description
It is one of the smallest of the invasive cockroaches, and the adult brown-banded cockroach may reach a length of 11 to 14.5 mm. Brown-banded cockroaches get their name from the two lighter bands they have across their dark brownish bodies.
Habitat
They are commonly found on ceilings, higher on walls, behind photo frames, and near motors of refrigerators and other electrical appliances. They also reside in electrical switches, closets, and furniture.
Lifespan
These roaches can survive anywhere from 130 to 315 days and generally have an average lifespan of 206 days.
Conclusion
Roaches can quickly infest at places that have poor sanitation or food leftovers. It is imperative to ensure proper cleanliness and a timely check at places that might harbor cockroaches.
