Need pest help? Save $50 on your first recurring service today with code GET50

How to Tell Cockroaches and Waterbugs Apart

What Is a Waterbug?

Although many people refer to various cockroach species as waterbugs, the true water bug is an aquatic insect classified under the order Hemiptera. Water boatmen and water scorpions are true bugs that live in water. Their legs are used as paddles to move through water. Members of the Gerridae family, such as water striders, pond skaters and water spiders, are also water bugs. However, instead of using their legs as paddles, they make use of surface tension to stay afloat.

Oriental Cockroach vs. Waterbug

One common example of an insect that is referred to as a waterbug is actually the oriental cockroach (Blatta orientalis). Contrary to its name, the oriental cockroach is native to Africa. Oriental cockroaches (water bugs) are shiny and black or dark brown in color. Nymphs of the species are smaller. Adult males are smaller than females. Oriental cockroaches do not have full-sized wings, and they are unable to fly.

Attracted to Warm, Damp Places

In warm weather, oriental cockroaches can be found outside in trash cans and sewers. In colder seasons, they migrate inside seeking warmth. They are most commonly located in basements and other damp areas at or below ground level. Oriental cockroaches have seasonal development cycles, with adults emerging in warm seasons.

Adult Male Oriental Cockroach

Adult Male Oriental Cockroach

Water is a Necessity

Like most other cockroaches, the oriental cockroach can eat many foods it happens upon. It is especially fond of starchy foods and decaying plant and animal matter. Given enough water, oriental cockroaches can survive up to one month without food. However, they cannot survive more than two weeks without water.

Diseases & Problems

Cockroaches are adaptable insects. Although they gather in warm, moist areas, they are not aquatic like true waterbugs. Cockroaches are scavengers who consume any organic food source available to them. These insects normally are nocturnal and hide in crevices during the day. Cockroaches are capable of spreading human disease and triggering allergies and asthma. Oriental cockroaches can spread contaminants which can cause diarrhea and food poisoning. They are attracted to food sources indoors and require a science-based solution tailored to each home to best control them. In order to get rid of a cockroach infestation, contact your local pest control professional.

What Does a Cockroach Look Like?

Difference Between a Cockroach and a Palmetto Bug

Resources

Protect Your Home from Cockroaches

Cockroaches Exterminator - How To Identify & Get Rid Of Cockroaches

Cockroach illustration

Buying a home with roaches

Q

We looked at one last night that we really liked; however, we saw two Raid cans in different rooms, all cabinets were open in the house, and we saw a few dead bugs which I think were roaches. Should we be concerned?

Avoid bringing roaches when you move

Q

I want to be sure that I do not take any roaches or roach eggs with me when I move. Can you tell me what I need to do in order to ensure this doesn’t happen?

Roaches in used sofa sleeper

Q

How likely is it that I will bring roaches into my home via a used sofa sleeper?

How to get rid of waterbugs or sewer roaches?

Q

We get these bugs — some people call them sewer roaches, and others call them water bugs. How do we get rid of them?

Ants & Cockroaches Active Pest: Tips & Advice from Orkin

I have roaches in my apartment

Q

How long will it take for me not to see them anymore? How long before they should come and spray again?

How to Identify Different Cockroach Species

What kind of roaches are white in color?

Q

What kind of roaches are white in color?

Can roaches be eliminated from a dwelling completely?

Q

I have a few months left in my lease, but I need this issue addressed before moving. Can roaches be eliminated from a dwelling completely?

Connect with Us

Our customer care team is available for you 24 hours a day.

877-819-5061

Find a Branch

Our local Pros are the pest experts in your area.

Get a Personalized Quote

We will help you find the right treatment plan for your home.

THE BEST IN PESTS.™

SERVICES

Pest ControlTermite ControlPrevent and Protect

PEST LIBRARY

Browse All Pests

© 2023 Orkin LLC

Terms of UsePrivacyAccessibility StatementCareers

Your Branch  

Call Now