Cockroaches are one of the most recognized insects in the world, it is generally accepted that they can survive a nuclear blast. There are over 5000 species of Cockroaches worldwide and the earliest fossilized Cockroach dates back 280 million years – 80 million years older than the first dinosaurs. Below are some interesting tidbits about some of the different species:

They vary in size from the largest which is 6 inches long and has a 12 inch wingspan to the smallest which actually reside in ant nests. The fastest cockroach can move 50 body lengths per second which is the equivalent of a person running about 200 mph and they can change direction 25 times per second. Some cockroaches – when they break a leg – can grow another. Most cockroaches can live 2 weeks with no water and 4 weeks with no food. Some can live up to 9 days without a head. They can hold their breath for up to 40 minutes and they can and do regularly swim up sewer and drain lines. Some females will mate once and remain pregnant for life. Females can lay up to 2 million offspring in a year. Cockroaches spend about 75% of their time resting. Some cultures eat cockroaches fried in oil and garlic as a cure for indigestion and they have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. One such use is for the treatment of stingray stings. Cultures have changed – They were once considered a guest of honor in homes and it was customary to actually release them in new dwellings.