American Cockroach - insect

3D Model

The American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) is among the largest and most resilient cockroach species. Despite its name, it originated in Africa and spread globally. It thrives in warm, humid environments and is commonly found in basements, sewers, and kitchens. Growing up to 53mm, it has a reddish-brown exoskeleton, long antennae, and fully developed wings, though it rarely flies. It is an omnivorous scavenger, feeding on decaying organic matter, starches, and even non-food items like paper. Highly adaptable, it can survive weeks without food and endure harsh conditions. Cockroaches play a role in decomposition but are also vectors for bacteria like Salmonella and allergens that can trigger asthma. Their rapid reproduction and resilience make them difficult pests to control. Despite their reputation, cockroaches are evolutionary marvels, existing for over 300 million years. Studying them has led to insights in robotics and medicine, proving their importance beyond their pest status.