Survey of House Cockroaches Species and Their Population Density in North – East Libya

Abstract

The survey and identification of house cockroaches species in north–east Libya was major goal from this study, three cockroaches species were identified they are: German cockroach Blattella germanica (Linnaeus). American cockroach Periplaneta americana (Linnaeus). And Oriental cockroach Blatta orintalis (Linnaeus). The study indicate that the German cockroach was widespread in complete north–east Libya but the American cockroach found only in Benghazi, El–Marj, El–Bieda and Derna, while the Oriental cockroach visible only in two cities they are El–Marj and El–Bieda. So the population density of this species was studied in three cities: Benghazi, El–Marj and El–Bieda, to three habitats: kitchens, stores and hospital departments. The German cockroach has been surpass in number than other species in all study region with their different habitats through 97% from total number, while percentage of American cockroach was 1.4% and oriental cockroach 1.1%. From another aspect the highest population density of this insect was recorded in August and September, while the least population was found in December and January with oscillation of population line during remainder months. When compare the population density between three habitats they are kitchens, stores and hospital departments in three cities they are Benghazi, El–Marj and El–Bieda. El–Bieda City was given great number of cockroach more than other cities, and the kitchens habitat was the most fitness for cockroaches life more than other environments.