ROACHES AND FLEAS 353 
Roaches 
At least four species of roaches are common in the United States: 
the American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana Linn.), the Oriental 
Cockroach (Blatta orientalis Linn.), the Australian Roach (Periplaneta 
australasie Fab.), and the German Roach, or ‘“‘ Croton Bug” (Blatella 
germanica Linn.). 
All are more or less domesticated, eat any kind of food product, and 
leave behind them a disgusting odor. 
In some species both males and females are winged, while in others 
the female has only short remnants of wings. All are alike in having 
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Fic. 556. — The German Roach, or ‘‘ Croton Bug. 
Original. 
Slightly enlarged. 
flat, thin bodies, and strong, biting jaws. The young look much like the 
adults, but are of course much smaller. From one to three years are 
required for their development. 
A number of prepared poisons are on the market for the destruction 
of roaches, and some of these are fairly effective. Various traps are 
employed. Large numbers may be killed by setting out two shallow 
dishes, one containing flour and plaster of Paris mixed together, and 
2a 
