Scientific Name of Largest Cockroach

Scientific Name of the Largest Cockroach: Megaloblatta longipennis

Category Details
Scientific Name Megaloblatta longipennis (Walker, 1868)
Synonyms Blabera longipennis (Walker, 1868)
Megaloblatta peruviana (Dohrn, 1887)
Domain Eukaryota
Kingdom Animalia
Phylum Arthropoda
Class Insecta
Order Blattodea
Family Ectobiidae
Genus Megaloblatta
Species M. longipennis

Physical Characteristics

Feature Details
Length Up to 9.7 cm (3.8 inches)
Width Up to 4.5 cm (1.8 inches)
Wingspan Up to 20 cm (8 inches)
Coloration Brownish or reddish hue

Habitat and Distribution

Region Details
Native Range Colombia, Ecuador, Peru
Possible Range Sometimes reported in Panama (misidentifications with Megaloblatta blaberoides)
Preferred Habitat Tropical rainforests, humid and sheltered environments

Related Species

Species Details
Megaloblatta blaberoides Similar in appearance; found in Central America

Conservation and Ecological Role

Aspect Details
Conservation Status Not currently endangered; may be affected by habitat destruction
Ecological Role Decomposer, helps in recycling nutrients and breaking down organic matter

Summary

The Megaloblatta longipennis stands out as the largest cockroach in terms of length and wingspan. Native to the tropical regions of South America, it plays a crucial ecological role despite its imposing size. Understanding its scientific classification and characteristics provides insight into the diverse world of cockroaches and highlights their importance within their ecosystems.

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