Cockroaches and waterbugs are two completely different insects, yet their appearance often leads to confusion. So, exactly What’s The Difference Between A Cockroach and A Waterbug? Read along to find out what insight our pest control Spokane experts had to give. The giant water bug, also known as toe biter, electric-light insect, or alligator tick, is the most prevalent species of a waterbug. The reddish-brown American roach and the shiny black oriental cockroaches are two cockroach species that are sometimes misidentified as waterbugs. There are a few things you should know about cockroaches and water bug control.
Appearance
Most water bug species are rather large and at least 3.8 cm long, in contrast to typical house cockroaches, which are always smaller and approximately half an inch long. The American roach is the only roach that is similar in size to a waterbug, but it can be distinguished from a waterbug by its yellowish figure-eight pattern on the back of the head. Cockroaches are normally light tan to dark brown, whereas water bugs are tan to black, but their colors are variable. Their bodies are circular and flat, and they both have antennae and wings. Water bugs have piercing mouthparts and a short, pointed beak on their underside.
Habitat
Waterbugs, as the name implies, is most usually found in or near bodies of water. Aside from water, they may live in decomposing materials such as leaves and trash. Adult waterbugs cannot breathe underwater, so they must surface for oxygen. Cockroaches live in humid environments, although they never go near the water on purpose. Both of these insects can enter and escape your property through cracks, holes, or pipes that lead indoors.
Diet
Cockroaches are scavengers and opportunistic eaters, capable of consuming a wide range of items and meals such as leather, bread, flakes of dried skin, dead animals, fermented food, and many others. They eat mostly plant-based foods, although they can adapt to any food source accessible to them. On the other hand, waterbugs are frequently known to prey on insects, small fish, frogs, and other small vertebrates. Waterbugs evolved front legs that can grab prey as a result of this.
Bite Hazard
Adult huge water bugs grab larger prey species with their clawed front legs. They can also bite humans if provoked or if their environment is disturbed. Their bites can be uncomfortable, but they rarely have any negative consequences; nonetheless, an allergic reaction to a water bug bite requires quick medical attention. There have been no confirmed reports of cockroach bites.
How to Get Rid of Cockroaches and Waterbugs
Water bug treatment focuses on eliminating unneeded water sources to keep these insects at bay. Cockroach management often comprises hygienic sanitation methods such as clutter and rubbish removal and trap placement.
Because these insects spread quickly, a cockroach or waterbug infestation can quickly become out of hand, so your best bet is to call roach control near me to deal with the situation. You can also call our Spokane Pest Control at (509) 681-3949 for more info and assistance with pests and Natural Ways To Get Rid Of Roaches.