The Journey of Cockroaches Across the Globe
DALLAS, Texas—They’re six-legged, hairy home invaders that just won’t die, no matter how hard you try. Cockroaches are experts at surviving indoors, hiding in kitchen pipes or musty drawers. But they didn’t start out that way.
Genetic Study Uncovers Cockroaches’ Global Migration
A new study uses genetics to chart cockroaches’ spread across the globe, from humble beginnings in southeast Asia to Europe and beyond. Researchers analyzed the genes of over 280 cockroaches from 17 countries and six continents.
Origins of the German Cockroach
The study confirmed that the German cockroach, a species found worldwide, actually originated in southeast Asia, evolving from the Asian cockroach around 2,100 years ago.
The Global Routes of Cockroaches
The cockroaches then spread via two major routes. They traveled west to the Middle East about 1,200 years ago, possibly hitchhiking in soldiers’ breadbaskets. They also stowed away on Dutch and British East India Company trade routes to reach Europe around 270 years ago.
Evolution and Adaptation of Cockroaches
Modern-day cockroaches are tough to keep at bay because they evolve quickly to resist pesticides. Exploring how cockroaches conquered past environments may lead to better pest control strategies.
Researchers suggest that inventions like the steam engine and indoor plumbing facilitated the insects’ spread and adaptation to living indoors, where they are commonly found today.
By understanding the history of cockroaches’ global migration, researchers aim to develop more effective ways to control these resilient pests.
