The Cockroach: Unwanted Inhabitants and Why You Shouldn’t Crush Them
Posted September 22, 2023 by: Admin
Cockroaches are one of the oldest pests living on the planet. In fact, they have been on Earth for nearly 300 million years, and whether we like it or not, their existence is intertwined with ours. Cockroaches, regardless of the species, display astonishing resistance to poisons.
In particular, their egg cases (oothèques) can withstand insecticide sprays, making it incredibly challenging to completely eradicate them. The sight of a cockroach instinctively triggers disgust in humans, but crushing them is the one mistake you should never make, under any circumstances.
The Cockroach: An Insect That Eats Everything
The cockroach, also known as a roach or cockerel, is an omnivorous insect that feeds on virtually anything. All kinds of food, especially sweet substances and starches, attract cockroaches. After contaminating an area, cockroaches leave behind a strong, unpleasant odor detectable by the human nose.
These hideous insects feed on hair, skin, excrement, saliva, paper, fabric, and even the corpses of their fellow cockroaches. Finding food is not a challenge for them unless a dwelling is as clean as a whistle. Cockroaches live in small family groups and are highly resilient. In the event of a nuclear explosion, these insects will outlive us.
Cockroaches: A Plague on Humanity
Cockroaches are the most dangerous pests for humans. In kitchens, these insects contaminate countertops, appliances, stovetops, and any exposed food through a secretion that comes from their mouths and their feces.
Everything that comes from cockroaches can cause undesirable reactions in humans. Their moltings, saliva, and excrement can lead to:
- Hepatitis
- Tuberculosis
- Parasitic diseases
- Fungal infections
- Gastroenteritis
- Dysentery
- Typhoid fever
- Salmonellosis
In some families, cockroaches have a psychological impact on parents and children. The sight of cockroaches can cause stress and phobias in children. It’s essential to remember that cockroaches are associated with poor hygiene. Dwellings with questionable cleanliness almost always have a cockroach problem.
In apartment buildings, colonies can quickly spread to neighboring units. To avoid these issues, it is crucial to eliminate cockroaches in our homes, but certainly not by crushing them underfoot.
