Australian cockroach
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| Periplaneta australasiae Fabricius, 1775 |
The Australian cockroach (Periplaneta australasiae) is a large species of cockroach, winged, and growing to a length of 3.0cm - 3.5cm (approx 1 1/4"-1 3/8"). It is brown in colour. It is very similar in appearance to the American cockroach and may be mistaken for it easily. However, it is a bit smaller than the American cockroach, has a yellow margin on the thorax, and yellow streaks at its sides near the wing base.
Despite its name, the Australian cockroach originated in Asia. It is very common in the southern United States and in tropical climates, and can be found in many locations throughout the world due to its travels via shipping and commerce between locations. It can be found in Florida, California, and other coastal states.
The insect can travel quickly, often darting out of sight when someone enters a room, and can fit into small cracks and under doors despite its fairly large size. It is known to be very mobile, it also has wings which allow it to be quite a capable flier.
It prefers warmer climates and is not cold tolerant, however, it may be able to survive indoors in colder climates. It does well in moist conditions but also can tolerate dry conditions as long as water is available. It often lives around the perimeter of buildings, and it is one of the most common species outdoors in Florida. It appears to prefer eating plants more than its relatives do, but can feed on a wide array of organic (including decaying) matter. Like most cockroaches, it is a scavenger.
It may come indoors to look for food and even to live, however, in warm weather it may move outdoors and enter buildings looking for food.
