German cockroaches (or German roaches) are a widely troublesome species known for occupying buildings, restaurants, food processing facilities, hotels, and institutional establishments such as nursing homes. From properly identifying this type of cockroach to learning where it is most commonly found, this information can go a long way in helping you determine the right cockroach control product for each of your customers. The Gentrol product line from Zoëcon® offers a variety of roach control solutions, with the active ingredient and applications necessary for quick knockdown and lasting control that can prevent future cockroach infestations. Learn more about the pest and the different ways you can treat for German cockroaches with the information provided below.

GERMAN COCKROACH APPEARANCE
German cockroach size: 1/2 to 5/8 inches long

Color: Light brown

Other distinctive features: Wings (but they can’t fly), two black lines from the head to the wings, wide and flat body
GERMAN COCKROACH LIFE CYCLE
Females produce up to 380 eggs during life

Produces egg capsule containing up to 48 eggs every 6 weeks

From egg to reproductive adult in roughly 54 - 215 days dependent upon temperature and humidity.
COCKROACH BEHAVIOR
Active at night

Forage for food and water

Eat all types of human food and pet food
GERMAN COCKROACH INFESTATION SITES
Anywhere food is stored

Shelter under/behind sinks and cabinets, holes in walls, around appliances, nooks and crannies

Dark, warm environments

Garbage/refuse areas

Indoors or outdoors
SIGNS OF COCKROACH INFESTATION
Roach droppings/dark specs

If seen foraging during the day, population is likely large

As population grows, more are forced out of shelter

Overflowing population in one location
COCKROACH DANGERS AND HEALTH RISKS
Food safety violations

Carry bacteria and viruses

Can cause food poisoning, diarrhea, and dysentery

Allergic reaction can include skin rashes, congestion, watery eyes, and asthma

Strong odor

How Roach IGRs Work

Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) prevent insects from completing their normal development to the adult stage. For insects with gradual metamorphosis, such as cockroaches and bed bugs, the impact is on the last nymphal instar, causing adults to have twisted wings (cockroaches), darkened cuticles, and non-functional reproductive organs. Gentrol® products contain the IGR (S)-hydroprene which is a synthetic copy of a naturally occurring insect biochemical. The Gentrol® product line works as an effective roach IGR by preventing the nymphs from developing into reproductively functioning adults.

ROACH CONTROL PRODUCTS

Using IGR technology with the translocating active ingredient (S)-hydroprene, Gentrol® products are an insurance policy to prevent future reinfestations and callbacks for cockroaches with formulations designed to reach the variety of areas where roaches hide.

Gentrol^® IGR Concentrate

Ideal for treating roaches in hard-to-reach areas, Gentrol^® IGR Concentrate provides professionals the flexibility required for uniform applications across multiple sites.

Gentrol^® Aerosol

Approved for kitchen pest control treatments, Gentrol^® Contact Aerosol gives professionals a roach insecticide that's simple and ready-to-use for a variety of indoor infestation sites.

Gentrol^® Complete Aerosol

Combining an IGR and an insecticide, Gentrol^® Complete Aerosol can help save on labor costs by providing knockdown with residual control to prevent future cockroach infestations.

Gentrol^® Point Source

This discreet, non-spray roach control device features the insect growth regulator, (S)-hydroprene, for up to 90 days of cockroach control.

Gentrol^® Complete EC₃

Designed for food-handling establishments, Gentrol^® Complete EC₃ features a Multi-Rate Formulation to tackle all levels of a kitchen infestation. It provides quick knockdown and lasting control over cockroaches and other listed pests.

CONTROL ROACHES WITH CONFIDENCE

We’ve made all of this information easier to print and share with our German Cockroach Poster, Gentrol^® Family Brochure, and Gentrol^® Bulletin. Simply download and print out to provide your team with the information needed to offer sound advice and treatment recommendations for your customers. We’ve also made an informational video about the active ingredient found in the Gentrol^® line of products, (S)-hydroprene— watch it here.

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COCKROACHES

How Roach IGRs Work

ROACH CONTROL PRODUCTS

CONTROL ROACHES WITH CONFIDENCE