How to Tell Cockroaches and Waterbugs Apart
What is a waterbug?
Although many people refer to various cockroach species as waterbugs, the true water bug is an aquatic insect classified under the order Hemiptera. Water boatmen and water scorpions are true bugs that live in water. Their legs are used as paddles to move through water. Members of the Gerridae family, including water striders, pond skaters, and water spiders, are also water bugs. However, instead of using their legs as paddles, they make use of surface tension to stay afloat.
Do waterbugs bite and are they Dangerous?
True waterbugs may bite if they feel threatened. Although their bites are very painful, they're not fatal or dangerous for humans.
Oriental Cockroach vs. Waterbug
One common example of an insect that is referred to as a waterbug is actually the oriental cockroach (Blatta orientalis). Contrary to its name, the oriental cockroach is native to Africa. Oriental cockroaches (water bugs) are shiny and black or dark brown in color. Nymphs of this cockroach species are smaller. Adult males are smaller than females. Oriental cockroaches do not have full-sized wings, and they are unable to fly.
Where do oriental cockroaches live?
In warm weather, oriental cockroaches can be found outside in trash cans and sewers. In colder seasons, they migrate inside seeking warmth. They are most commonly located in basements and other damp areas at or below ground level. Oriental cockroaches have seasonal development cycles, with adults emerging in warm seasons.
Adult Male Oriental Cockroach
What do oriental cockroaches eat and drink?
Like most other cockroaches, the oriental cockroach can eat many foods it happens upon. It is especially fond of starchy foods and decaying plant and animal matter. Given enough water, oriental cockroaches can survive up to one month without food. However, they cannot survive more than two weeks without water.
Do cockroaches carry diseases?
Cockroaches are adaptable insects. Although they gather in warm, moist areas, they are not aquatic like true waterbugs. Cockroaches are scavengers who consume any organic food source available to them. These insects normally are nocturnal and hide in crevices during the day. Cockroaches are capable of spreading human disease and triggering allergies and asthma. Oriental cockroaches can spread contaminants which can cause diarrhea and food poisoning. They can be attracted to food sources inside homes and require a science-based solution tailored to each home to best control them. In order to get rid of a cockroach infestation, contact your local Orkin branch.
