Is cockroach a pest ?

There are about 3,500 species of cockroaches in the world, most of which are found in the tropics.

The common cockroach found in human dwellings contaminates food and is a great nuisance. The American or German cockroach are also pests in kitchens, bakeries and warehouses. There were only 2 species originally found in Britain but due to import of food and migration, several other species have been introduced there.

The domesticated species of cockroaches are omnivorous and can eat any sort of food. They are particularly fond of sweet and starchy food. In the absence of food, they feed on clothing, paper, books and even shoes. Thus they are severe pests in most households.