Roaches are a plague that’s become a common annoyance in modern society. Cockroaches and wood roaches are problematic because they are carriers of dangerous diseases. Roaches can also contaminate food, which is why they’re so detrimental to public health.
Undoubtedly, you would want to get rid of any cockroach infestation in your home as soon as possible. But distinguishing between a cockroach vs wood roach in your house can take time and effort.
Read on to learn the main distinctions between a cockroach vs wood roach.
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Anatomical Comparison: Cockroach Vs. Wood Roach
Although both cockroaches and wood roaches look similar, they differ drastically in many important anatomical characteristics. Starting with the head, the cockroach generally has a more circular-shaped pronotum. In contrast, the wood roach has a much narrower one.
Additionally, the cockroach has short antennae with three segments. The wood roach has long and slender antennae with four segments.
Moving to the thorax, the cockroach has a domed-shaped pronotum and a hardened exoskeleton. Meanwhile, the wood roach has a flat pronotum and a much softer exoskeleton.
Pest control is essential to prevent infestations of both cockroaches and wood roaches, which can cause significant damage and health hazards. Proper pest control Dallas can help identify and eliminate these insects from homes and other structures.
Behavioral Contrasts Within the Species
Cockroaches and wood roaches exhibit significant behavioral contrasts within the species. Generally, cockroaches are scavengers, while wood roaches are predatory.
Wood roaches are active during the day, while cockroaches often come out to feed at night. Wood roaches mainly feed on other insects and arthropods, while cockroaches are omnivorous and will eat nearly anything.
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Where Can You Find Each Roach?
A wood roach and cockroach’s lifespans differ much more than their looks. While they both have similar characteristics, there are distinct differences between them.
Cockroaches are commonly found in dark, damp spaces such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. On the other hand, wood roaches love wooded areas with plenty of moisture and access to deadwood.
They are usually found near stumps and decaying logs. Wood roaches also prefer to live outdoors, away from people and their dwellings. Additionally, wood roaches feed off of wood, which is not the case for cockroaches. Cockroaches feed off of human trash as well as organic materials, so you can usually find them in dirty areas of human dwellings.
Variations in Illness and Disease Spread By Each Roach
Cockroaches and wood roaches differ in the ways they spread illness and disease. While there is limited literature on how wood roaches spread disease, it is known that cockroaches can carry a host of microorganisms that can spread disease.
They carry the bacterium Salmonella, the virus that causes polio, and the parasite Giardia. Furthermore, they are capable of transferring allergens that can cause respiratory problems. In contrast, wood roaches cannot spread these illnesses, contaminate human food with feces, and shed body parts.
Learn How to Identify A Cockroach vs Wood Roach Today
Cockroaches and wood roaches are both widely misunderstood pests but differ in several ways. Knowing the differences between a cockroach vs wood roach can help you better understand all the types of roaches and how to prevent or get rid of them.
Take the time to identify the pests correctly you find in your home and the steps necessary to rid your home of any roach infestations. Call a pest control specialist if needed to help with bigger infestations.
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