The Non-Native Field Cockroach Was First Discovered In Arizona Where It Remains Abundant On Irrigated Residential Yards
Despite Arizona’s extremely dry climate where natural water sources are relatively hard to come by for insects, a surprisingly large number of water-loving cockroach species are abundant in the state. According to researchers with the University of Arizona, the most commonly encountered cockroach species found in homes in the state include German, American, Oriental, and brown-banded cockroaches. Two additional cockroach species, Turkestan and Surinam cockroaches, have become common in households in certain areas of Arizona.
The Surinam cockroach is a major pest of greenhouses throughout the state, but this species only invades homes on rare occasions, as they prefer to remain outdoors. The Turkestan cockroach, on the other hand, has become a common household pest in Phoenix and Tucson since it was introduced into Arizona back in 1982. Although this species prefers to maintain an outdoor habitat, they invade homes in large numbers during the month of June when their population numbers reach peak levels. This species is also notable for its annoying habit of flying around porch lights and around indoor lights during the summer months. The field cockroach is another little known, but common roach pest species in Arizona where it inhabits irrigated lawns, sometimes in massive numbers during the summer.
The field cockroach is likely native to southeast Asia, and it was first discovered in the US back when numerous specimens were recovered in Arizona back in 1933. These roaches have also been found faraway from their preferred moisture rich environment in arid desert areas, indicating that this adaptive species may be spreading to all eco-regions in Arizona. The field cockroach generally prefers to remain outdoors where it feeds on decaying plant matter in residential and urban areas, but during particularly dry periods, these roaches seek moisture within homes and buildings in significant numbers. Field cockroach infestations in homes can sometimes be eradicated by removing decaying lawn matter and other food sources surrounding foundations.
Do you find that lawn clippings and other forms of decaying plant matter in your yard may contribute to occasional pest issues?
