This is a page containing data concerning the ecological data of Cockroaches, for a page concerning only the taxonomic classification, see Blattodea ; for the category encompassing all pages concerning any data related to thereof, see Category:Blattodea.
"Cockroaches" (Also referred to by the aliases, "roaches"[1], "Palmetto bugs"[2] [The latter title used for various species in Southern US], "Croton bug"[2]) is used to refer to almost every species in the order Blattodea, characterized by typically rounded, elliptical bodies and limbs strudded with thorn-like projections used in self-defense against predators[?] ; this characteristic brings about a likeness between the other order which is included in the same superorder as cockroaches - Mantodea (mantids) which are again, characterized by bearing spiked limbs used in prey-capture.
Evolution[]
According to one hypothesis, cockroaches were an ancient group of insects that arose during the Devonian epoch. Fossil roachoids (Ancestors of modern-day cockroaches which lacked the internalized ovipositors possessed by modern species.) that lived during that time differ from modern cockroaches in that they had long external ovipositors and are the ancestors of mantises, as well as modern cockroaches.
Etymology[]
The term "cockroach" was first bought into usage in early 17th century, derived from the Spanish word "Cucaracha" later transformed to "Cockroach" by folk English etymology, due to associations with "cock" and "roach" whereas for the scientific name "Blattodea" the derivation comes from Latin word "Blatta" which means "Insect which shuns the light".[3]