Field cockroach, Blattella vaga
(Blattodea: Blattellidae)

The adult field cockroach is about 3/8 to 1/2 inch (8.5-11.5 m) long. Its color ranges from light brown to tan with an olive green tint. The pronotum has two dark longitudinal stripes as also seen on the German and Asian cockroaches. However, the field cockroach has a broad, dark brown to black band on the face between the eyes.

The female produces an average of five eggs cases (oothecae) in a lifetime. The first three contain 28 eggs each, with later oothecae containing far less. Early instar nymphs are yellowish-cream in color. Later instars appear darker in color but are still lighter than German cockroach nymphs. Developmental time from egg to adult is about 70 days with nymphs going through five to seven molts. Adults live about 100 to 150 days.

This species lives outdoors and feeds on decaying vegetation. It often comes into structures seeking moisture during dry periods and populations may be found in irrigated garden or vegetable areas. Originally native to south Asia, it is now found across the southwestern U.S. to Louisiana.

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Adult field cockroach, Blattella vaga.
(Photographer: J.L. Castner, University of Florida)

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Adult field cockroaches, Blattella vaga; female with
ootheca (left) and male (right).
(Photographer: J.L. Castner, University of Florida)

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