The smokybrown cockroach (Validiblatta fuliginosa), synonym Periplaneta fuliginosa, is a species of cockroach in the family Blattidae. It is a large, winged species, growing to a length of .
Characteristics
left|thumb|The ventral side of V. fuliginosa
Although not closely related to the American cockroach (Periplaneta americana), the smokybrown cockroach is sometimes confused with it, but readily distinguishable from it by its uniformly light to dark brown–mahogany coloration. It may, however, be able to survive colder climates by going indoors. Their activity patterns are mostly restricted to evening hours when humidity is highest. In cases where females do not have access to mates, females reproduce by parthenogenesis, however, this form of reproduction is not as commonly seen as sexual reproduction. The oothecae, dark brown color, commonly ranges from in length. These pheromones are made up of synthetic Periplanone-D, which is a major sex excitatory component of the pheromone chemical composition. Whereby, in female mate calling the cockroaches' body is up high, the dorsal end of the abdomen bend towards the ground, and wings are held at a 45° angle. The amount of lipid composition of the cockroach also directly correlates to lower body transpiration, in addition, but provides these species with a more water barrier easing the permeability of the cuticle. These thick layers have various glandular cells, along with pores that connect through the cuticle to secrete the sticky protein substance.
Impact to humans
These species can be detrimental to human health, thereby due to their proximity of inhabitance to humans they are a vector for diseases including parasitism of nematodes. Exposure to the cockroach's feces, the shed outer layer of the exoskeleton, and other body parts mainly cause the transfer of parasites and allergens.
Management practices
One of the control measures to avoid these inhabitants is the use of insecticides, thereby spraying around the exterior of the house with a -wide barrier. by Morgan Hebard, with a key to the figures on page 281.
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