Technical Sheet of the Cockroach Therea olegrandjeani
Taxonomy
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Blattodea
- Family: Polyphagidae
- Genus: Therea
- Species: Therea olegrandjeani
Description
- Morphology:
- Size: Approximately 2-3 cm in length.
- Coloration: Displays a distinctive pattern of black and white. The body is generally dark with white spots.
- Shape: Oval and flattened body, typical of cockroaches. Wings are present but not functional for flight.
- Sexual Dimorphism:
- Males are usually slightly smaller than females and have longer antennae.
Distribution and Habitat
- Origin: Endemic to the Madagascar region.
- Habitat: Prefers dry forest areas and subtropical environments. Usually found under leaf litter, fallen logs, and stones.
Behavior
- Activity: Nocturnal.
- Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on decomposing organic matter, including dead leaves and other plant debris.
Reproduction
- Type of Reproduction: Sexual.
- Life Cycle: Complete, with stages of egg, nymph, and adult.
- Egg: Deposits oothecae (egg capsules).
- Nymph: Undergoes several molts before reaching adulthood.
Additional Observations
- Curiosities: Therea olegrandjeani is known for its striking appearance, which may serve as a defense mechanism, confusing predators with its disruptive coloration pattern.
