Scientific Name

Supella longipalpa

 

Habitat

Brown-banded cockroaches are found in homes, apartments, hotels, and hospitals. They are less frequently found in stores restaurants and kitchens. They are frequently transported in furniture and will spread rapidly through an entire building. Brown-banded cockroaches are generally found on ceilings, high on walls, behind picture frames, and near motors of refrigerators and other appliances. They are also found in light switches, closets and furniture. They do not require as much moisture as the German cockroach which explains why they normally are found in rooms other than the kitchen or bathroom. These cockroaches dislike light and are not normally seen during the day.

 

Life Cycle

The life cycle of the brown-banded cockroach takes an average of 161 days. The males have a shorter development period than the female. The egg capsule is yellowish or reddish/brown in color and is 3/16 inch (5 mm) in length. The female carries the egg capsule for 24 to 36 hours and then attaches it to some object. Egg capsules may be glued to desks, tables and other furniture, and even in bedding. This habit of hiding capsules in furniture probably accounts for its spread. The maximum number of eggs to be found in a capsule was 18. The flattened virgin female develops an enormously enlarged abdomen when she becomes gravid. The average incubation period is 69.7 days. The females produce a greater number of capsules during the summer.

 

Description

Approximately 5/8 of an inch long with yellowish-brown banding on the wings.

 

Control

Please contact your local county extension office for current information.