Cockroaches: Identification, Biology, and Control - Essay Example

Understanding the life cycle and favorite habitat of cockroaches is key to getting rid of them.  German cockroaches go through three distinct phases in their life cycle, namely, egg, nymph, and adult (Piper and Antonelli).  Cockroaches molt about 12-15 times during the nymph stage of their development.  German cockroaches are especially difficult to get rid of because they reproduce quickly, having about four full generations in one year.  They also have a habit of protecting their egg sacks better than other cockroaches.  This leads to lower mortality rates for newly hatched cockroaches. 

            Cockroaches are rarely studied for their beauty or cuddly nature.  Most research that features cockroaches soon has suggestions on how to get rid of them if they are in your house.  Many different solutions are commercially available.  The most effective appears to be poisoned bait that can be applied to areas of infestation.  This coupled with boric acid powder applied to cracks and hiding places will often be effective.  This is especially true if the cockroaches are deprived of hiding areas, food, and water.  Prevention of reproduction by depriving the insects of food and water is key to eliminating these insects from your home.