Blattodea: Cockroaches

(from the Latin: blatta = cockroach)

Cockroaches are flattened insects with 2 pairs of wings, chewing Florida Woods Cockroachmouthparts, and incomplete Cockroachmetamorphosis. Cockroaches, like crickets and grasshoppers, have thickened front wings called "tegmina." Cockroaches are fast runners, and their flat shape allows them to fit under rocks, logs, and other tight places. They are omnivores, feeding on virtually anything organic. Several species are pests, including German and American cockroaches, which commonly infest buildings. Other species, such as the wood roach, rarely enter homes are are important scavengers.

Click here for photos of common cockroaches.