All About Cockroaches All About Cockroaches Cockroaches have been present on the earth for more than 400 million years. Like termites, some roach species can digest wood.
Many species inhabit ant, wasp, termite colony nests, caves, animal burrows, and even mines.
Because cockroaches contaminate food with their excrement and secrete an unpleasant odor which can permeate the indoor environment, these insects are considered by most homeowners and entomologists to be one of the worst household pests. Many individuals develop allergies to these insects. Allergens present in the feces of the German cockroach can become airborne along with normal house dust. The allergens can then be inhaled from the air or ingested when in contact with food. Cockroaches evolved as scavengers of decaying plant materials, hence they will readily feed on carbohydrates, but they will also feed on a variety of other foods, including paints, wallpaper pastes, and book bindings.