Why are we so afraid?
Cockroaches are said to be the world's most feared insect, says Richard Kaae, an entomologist at California State University. However, much of this fear is purely psychological.
As the epitome of filth and dirt, they are within our presence and they especially thrive in the presence of humans. They are a constant reminder of our existence, as they can only exist with us.
We hate them because they're fast, unpredictable, and even if they can't fly, we seem to expect the worst. They are slimy and smell, both matters of basic entomology. They have secretions to prevent dehydration, and they exude uric acid as waste, which give them their trademark "squish smell" and ooze factor.
However, in reality cockroaches should be the least of our concerns. They don't bite, don't generally hurt humans, and aren't vectors of disease. Yet, every time one is seen, people go running. Sure, they carry bacteria, but effectively they pose no harm to humans.
(References 3, 5, 11)
As the epitome of filth and dirt, they are within our presence and they especially thrive in the presence of humans. They are a constant reminder of our existence, as they can only exist with us.
We hate them because they're fast, unpredictable, and even if they can't fly, we seem to expect the worst. They are slimy and smell, both matters of basic entomology. They have secretions to prevent dehydration, and they exude uric acid as waste, which give them their trademark "squish smell" and ooze factor.
However, in reality cockroaches should be the least of our concerns. They don't bite, don't generally hurt humans, and aren't vectors of disease. Yet, every time one is seen, people go running. Sure, they carry bacteria, but effectively they pose no harm to humans.
(References 3, 5, 11)
The hatred of cockroaches dates back thousands of years. The Egyptians created spells asking the "Ram-headed God Khnum" to banish cockroaches.
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Egg cases from 4 different common types of Cockroaches.
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Egg, nymph and adult American Cockroaches.
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