Which cockroach carries the egg capsule protruding from her body until the eggs are ready to hatch?

The German cockroach is notable for its unique reproductive behavior of carrying the egg capsule, also known as an ootheca, until the eggs are ready to hatch. This is a key characteristic of the species, as the female carries the ootheca attached to her abdomen for several weeks to protect the eggs from environmental hazards and predators. Once the eggs are close to hatching, she will find a suitable location to deposit the ootheca, from where the nymphs will emerge shortly after.

In contrast, the American cockroach and the oriental cockroach drop their oothecae shortly after they are produced, making them less protective of their developing young. The brownbanded cockroach does have some similarities to the German cockroach but does not carry the ootheca in the same manner, which is why the German cockroach is the most recognized for this specific behavior. Understanding the reproductive habits of different cockroach species is essential for effective management and control strategies in pest control.