Description: These cockroaches are very common in the United Kingdom. Usually dark reddish brown in colour and very shiny, the adults are about 17 to 30mm long and the immature cockroaches (nymphs) resemble adults except that they are wingless.

Biology: Unlike other pest cockroaches, Oriental's cannot climb up smooth surfaces. Oriental cockroaches generally live in moist areas, but can survive in dry areas if they have access to water. They tend to prefer cooler temperatures and thus are common in basements, boiler houses and walkways adjacent to buildings. The oriental cockroach breeds well in unventilated crawl spaces or basements where humidity is high. Adult cockroaches can live up to one year, during which females produce an average of 150 young. They feed on any organic matter, including human waste, soap, candles, paper etc. The oriental cockroach is known to carry some pathogenic bacteria, although direct evidence for transmitting disease to humans is scarce.

Control: Inspection at night, flushing with aerosol insecticidal sprays and the use of sticky traps are particularly useful in determining the size of the infestation. The use of insecticidal gels and well targeted use of residual insecticides where appropriate is recommended.