Quick answer
Cockroaches are flattened, fast-moving insects known for their toughness and ability to thrive in many environments. Most of the thousands of species live in the wild, but a few have become common household pests. They are omnivores that eat almost anything and can survive for weeks without food.
Key takeaway
Cockroaches are flattened, fast-moving insects known for their toughness and ability to thrive in many environments. Most of the thousands of species live in the wild, but a few have become common household pests. They are omnivores that eat almost anything and can survive for weeks without food.
Cockroach overview
Cockroach (Blattodea) is a insect listed here as Least Concern. Typical weight about 0.0008 kg; lifespan around Several months to about a year.
Cockroach ecology
Diet: Omnivore (almost anything organic). Habitat: Forests, burrows, and human buildings worldwide. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Cockroachs and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild cockroachs are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Least Concern. See the full Cockroach profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Built for survival
Cockroaches have flat, flexible bodies that let them squeeze into tiny cracks, and they can move very quickly to escape danger. They are highly adaptable, tolerating a wide range of conditions and going for weeks without food. These traits have made them successful for hundreds of millions of years.
Diet and behavior
As omnivores, cockroaches eat almost anything organic, including plants, crumbs, grease, paper, and decaying matter. Most species are active at night and prefer dark, warm, humid hiding places. They are social to a degree and often gather in groups, guided by chemical scent trails.
Sources
Cockroach FAQs
What are key facts about cockroachs?
Cockroaches are flattened, fast-moving insects known for their toughness and ability to thrive in many environments. Most of the thousands of species live in the wild, but a few have become common household pests. They are omnivores that eat almost anything and can survive for weeks without food.
What is the scientific name of the cockroach?
Blattodea — used in research and conservation listings for cockroachs.
What do cockroachs eat?
Cockroachs eat almost anything organic, with seasonal and regional variation in Forests, burrows, and human buildings worldwide.
Where do cockroachs live?
They are associated with Forests, burrows, and human buildings worldwide. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of cockroachs?
Listed in our guides as Least Concern. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.