Objective To identify the species composition, distribution, seasonal variation and infestation of cockroaches in the urban areas of Dongyang city, providing the basis for development of roach control strategies. Methods Roach glue traps were used to monitor the dynamics of cockroaches. Results Three species of cockroaches under 2 genera of 2 families were found in the region, and Blattella germanica was the dominant species. From January 2007 to December 2008, 3000 pieces of glue traps were administered with a result of 977 captures. With 391 traps positive of captives, the infestation rate ranged from 0 to 31.2%, which was significantly different among various industries (χ2=213.61, P<0.01). Peaking from June to November, the roach density manifested a unimodal pattern on seasonal dynamics. Scaling highest from July to September, the infestation rates were statistically different through the months (χ2=153.01, P<0.01). Conclusion Farmer’s markets, hospitals and the catering industry constituted the major breeding places for cockroaches in Dongyang city’s urban areas. In view of the constant expansion and gradual invasion of cockroach infestation to hospitals and residential areas, effective control measures should be taken to curb the spread.
2010, 21 (6):
585-586.