Cockroaches Vs. Water Bugs
While there are many types of bugs, two very common ones are cockroaches and water bugs. Though they may look similar, there are some key differences between these two pests that you should know if you’re having trouble getting rid of them. This blog post will explore the differences between these two types of bugs and provide some information on how to get rid of them.
Cockroaches Vs. Water Bugs: How to Tell The Difference
Cockroaches and water bugs are different types of insects, but their appearance can easily distinguish them. The giant water bug, also known as toe biter, electric-light bug, or alligator tick, is the most common species of water bug. Unfortunately, two cockroaches often get mistaken for these bugs: the reddish-brown American roach and the shiny black oriental roach. Therefore, considering their differences can be a great help for effective cockroach and water bug control.
Appearance
Unlike common house cockroaches, which are always smaller than water bugs and about half an inch large, most species of water bugs are 3.8 cm long and relatively large. The American roach is the only roach similar in size to a water bug. While you can distinguish water bugs by their yellowish figure-eight pattern on the back of the head and tan to black color. Cockroaches, on the other hand, are typically light tan to dark brown. They both have oval-shaped and flat bodies, antennae, and wings. Water bugs have piercing mouth parts and a short, pointed beak on the underside of the head.
Habitat
Water bugs are mostly found in or around water sources like ponds, streams, and lakes, while cockroaches are often seen in warm and humid environments. In terms of where they live, waterbugs typically reside outside in gardens or near puddles. If they do find their way into your home, it is only for a short period of time as they will quickly die without a water source. Cockroaches, on the other hand, are more likely to stay inside your home as they can survive for long periods of time without food or water.
Diet
Cockroaches are scavengers and opportunistic eaters who can consume a large variety of products. For example, they’ll eat leather, bread, and even dead animals. Water bugs often kill insects or small fish while hunting for other prey, such as frogs and invertebrates.
Bite Risk
While cockroaches rarely bite humans, water bugs have been known to do so. If a water bug does bite you, it will likely leave a red welt that is painful and itchy. Water bug bites are also more likely to become infected than cockroach bites.
How to Get Rid of Cockroaches and Water bugs
Reducing accessible food and water can make a property less attractive to cockroaches. Clean crumbs and spills, store food in sealed containers, repair leaks, and seal gaps where practical.
“Water bug” is a common name used for several different insects, so identification matters before selecting a response. If insects are appearing near moisture, inspect plumbing, drains, crawl spaces, and areas with standing water.
Traps can help document where activity is occurring. Follow product labels and keep traps or baits away from children and pets as directed.
A pest control professional can inspect the property, identify the insect involved, and explain treatment and monitoring options based on the findings.
If you have questions about cockroaches or insects described as water bugs, contact Salt Lake Pest Control to request an inspection.
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