German Cockroach, Blattella germanica (L.) (Blattaria: Blattellidae), Feeding Activity in Apartment Kitchens

Abstract

German cockroach, Blattella germanica (I), distribution within two low-income apartment kitchens was determined by monitoring feeding activity with capacitive proximity sensors for four consecutive days. Six sensors were placed in each kitchen in the cabinets below and above the sink, beside the stove, behind the refrigerator, on the counter and on top of the upper cabinet. In both apartments, cockroach feeding activity was as follows: in the cabinet below the sink > beside the stove = behind the refrigerator > in the cabinet above the sink = on the countertop next to the sink = on top of the upper cabinet. Environmental loggers that recorded light intensity, relative humidity and temperature were placed beside each proximity sensor. Areas with the greatest feeding activity were dark and humid. Areas of less feeding activity were most often well-lit, dry, and exposed to human activity.