Cockroaches are among the most common insects, along with one of the oldest species known to mankind. Based on fossil evidence, cockroaches are known to have been present on Earth for over 300 million years. Interestingly, some biologists consider insects, such as cockroaches to be one of the most successful groups of animals ever to inhabit this planet. One of the primary reasons behind the success of the cockroach is their adaptability. After all, they have been able to survive many changing environments over millions of years.
Additionally, there are approximately 3,500 species of cockroaches worldwide – about 55 species are found in the United States. Their presence in nearly every part of the world and a wide range of habitats demonstrates that cockroaches are truly an outstanding success story in nature. Unfortunately, many of the same outstanding biological characteristics which make them so successful, also make them one of the most difficult pests to manage. Cockroaches, especially the German cockroach, are the most commonly encountered and important household insect pests in much of the U.S.