Palmetto Bug vs Cockroach

More than 4500 different species of cockroaches have been discovered, but the term “palmetto bug” is one that’s often used to refer to them. But, of course, not all these pests are palmetto bugs. In this blogpost, we will tackle more about the differences and similarities of these two creepy creatures and how to get rid of them.

What is Palmetto Bugs

A palmetto bug is a type of insect that can be found in North America. The insects are called palmetto bugs because they like to make their homes in the crooks of palm trees. Palmetto bugs are typically nocturnal insects and prefer to eat fruit. The name of the palmetto bug is also commonly used to refer to a cockroach. Palmetto bugs are sometimes called water bugs because they can be found in standing water. 

They can typically be found around the exterior of homes, near sinks and dishwashers. Palmetto bugs are considered to be household pests because they can contaminate food with their feces and saliva as they walk on it. They also leave an unpleasant odor and can be carriers of disease. Palmetto bugs are one of the leading household pests in Florida.

Palmetto bugs are common household pests that can grow up to 2 inches long, depending on the age of these insects. Their color typically varies between red and brown with age, making it easy for you to see them crawling across tabletops or scurrying underneath your feet while searching out food sources.

Palmetto bugs have six legs and antennae. A series of small spikes on each leg allows them to feel with their feet. At the same time, curved ends also provide an additional sensitivity in identifying obstacles or surroundings around you. Palmetto bug’s wings may look fragile, but they’re quite strong; this creature can take flight across short distances while still using up most of its energy reserves within just seconds before landing again once completed soaring overhead.

Why are Some Cockroaches Called Palmetto Bugs?

In the southern United States, cockroaches are sometimes called palmetto bugs. This term is also used to refer to any other American cockroach species. The term derives from their shiny, reddish-brown coloration to that of a palm tree leaf.

As stated, there are about 4,500 species of cockroach worldwide and many others that have not been described. About 30 species are associated with human habitats. The rest generally live outdoors or in the soil. Species of this insect feed on a wide variety of plant and animal products; some can even digest cellulose. Most pest species feed on human food, while others live off vegetation and decaying organic matter. The most common type encountered are the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana, and the German cockroach, Blattella germanica.

Difference Between Palmetto Bugs VS. Cockroaches

There is no difference between a palmetto bug and a cockroach. Palmetto bug is simply a regional term used to refer to specific types of cockroaches. Therefore, when people refer to palmetto bugs, they are talking about one or several of the following species of cockroach:

American (Periplaneta americana)

This is the most common type of cockroach in Florida homes. They prefer warm and humid environments and are usually found indoors where there is moisture present. They are also called water bugs due to their attraction to water sources.

Oriental (Blatta orientalis)

They prefer cooler temperatures and are most commonly found in basements or crawl spaces. You’ll often find them in woodpiles, piles of yard debris, under garden mulch, and any place that provides some darkness.

Brown-Banded (Supella longipalpa)

The brown-banded cockroach, Supella longipalpa is a small roach species that measures about 10 to 14 mm in length. It has two light-colored bands across its wings and abdomen, which may appear broken or irregular but are quite noticeable; these markings can be partly obscured by the wings when seen from above. The male looks more slender than females while they’re wider compared with males. In addition, the male has wings covering the abdomen, while the female’s wings do not cover the abdomen completely.

Smokybrown (Periplaneta fuliginosa)

They are closely related to the American cockroach and prefer warm and humid conditions. Although closely related to the American cockroach, this species is readily distinguishable by its dark brown coloration. In contrast to other roaches with light-rimmed markings on their thoraxes like Periplaneta americana, their abdomens are shiny and black.

They are most likely to be found in damp, dark locations indoors. They are most commonly found in basements and crawlspaces, but you may also find them behind shower walls or under bathroom sinks.

How Can I Keep Cockroaches Out?

Cockroaches are troublesome creatures. They’re attracted to dirty areas and would often find their way into homes. But why are they so nasty? Cockroaches can carry disease-causing germs on their bodies, spreading around when they crawl on surfaces with their saliva and feces. It doesn’t help that cockroaches emit gas when they’re hungry that has an unpleasant odor.

The best way to keep cockroaches out is to make sure there are no food or water sources for them. Ensure foods are put away and sealed, including containers, plastic wrap, paper bags, cookware, etc. And if you have a pet, make sure they do not leave food outside where it can attract cockroaches.

Another great way to keep them out is by using a boric acid powder that has been mixed with an exoskeleton-degrading chemical like Dursban. This will allow the boric acid to carry through the insect’s body and eventually kill it. But, again, please make sure that children & pets are out of the area when you are spraying.

Of course, the best way to get rid of them is to pick up the phone and call pest control in Boise at the first sign They can find out just where the cockroaches are coming from and what attracts them. Then they can use a variety of methods to get rid of them.

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