Well, a new comparison – Water Bug vs. Roach is here. You might find water bugs and roaches look the same. So this blog will tell you the difference between the two so that you can take the necessary precautions.
Most of us are not experts in identifying water bugs and cockroaches. This is because they look very similar. However, some biological differences make them pretty different. The first and most common difference is that roaches belong to Blattodea, which includes termites, whereas water bugs belong to Hemiptera order.
Despite the difference in classification, people often confuse them by their looks. This is common in the case of oriental cockroaches that reside near water bodies like sewers and other damp areas – as said by Dini Miller, Ph.D., professor of urban entomology at Urban Pest Management. However, while comparing the water bug vs. roach, what are the key points to be considered?
We have covered five main differences between the water bug vs. roach to ensure you identify and eliminate them accordingly.
Water Bug Vs. Roach
We have created a table below to differentiate between the water bug vs. roach –
| Points of Difference | Water Bug | Roach |
| Color | Brown, tan, gray | Red, brown, tan, black |
| Size | 2-4 inches | Up to 3 inches |
| Habitat | Lives in moist, dark areas around freshwaters and lakes. | Lives in warm and dark areas around the corner of the house. |
| Physical Feature | Flat and oval body with wings. Also, have antennae. | Flat and oval body with no wings (even if some have wings, they cannot fly) |
| Order | Blatta Orientalis | Blattodea |
| Diet | Predators which eat algae | Scavenger |
| Bite | Yes | No |
| Group Behavior | Resides in group | Dwells in solitary except during the mating season |
Water Bug Vs. Roach – Color
Water roaches are usually brown, tan, and gray, whereas roaches are red, brown, black, and tan. However, some may look similar from a distance. However, when looked at properly, you can see the color difference.
Water Bug Vs. Roach – Size
Usually, the water bug dominated the roach in size. A water bug can grow up to 3 inches – more than any cockroach size. Even if you do not measure them, you can still know the difference between them by their size.
Water Bug Vs. Roach – Habitat
Cockroaches dwell on land, whereas water bugs love to roam around moist areas such as sewers, water bodies such as freshwater, lakes, etc.
Water Bug Vs. Roach – Diet
Both water bugs and roaches are scavengers. However, cockroaches feed on rotting things, garbage, food, etc. Whereas water bugs are predators and will hunt smaller creatures. Also, they feed on garbage and algae.
Water Bug Vs. Roach – Bite
If something bites and you think it is a roach – you are wrong. Those creatures are water bugs. On the other hand, roaches do not bite.
Water Bug Vs. Roach – Group Behavior
Cockroaches usually stay in groups. However, water bugs are seen in solitude. But, sometimes, you will find cockroaches alone, and you might sometimes confuse it with a water bug. Even so, the difference in size of the roaches and water bugs will help you determine what that scurrying little creature is.
What Causes Water Bugs in the House?
Water bugs are aquatic insects, and you’ll find them near damp areas. However, they tend to get into the house if you live near a water body and are usually attracted at night. However, roaches invade your house anytime they want. All they need is a cupboard full of food items, a dustbin with stale food, shelter, etc. – and they are all set to make a living space behind the refrigerator, holes, and crevices of the wall.
You will find water bugs and cockroaches in your home, usually at night. However, if there is a serious infestation, you will find them all day.
How to Get Rid of Water Bugs at Home?
If you see water bugs during the day – this is because you have a bug infestation. Hence, you must get rid of them ASAP. Water bugs and roaches are known to carry disease-causing bacteria and allergens that cause severe health problems. The best way to exterminate them is by using bait gels such as Advion cockroach Gel Bait to trap and get rid of them. Below are the benefits of Advion cockroach gel bait –
- The bait matrix is highly attractive, which makes the cockroaches eat them.
- Targets highly populated cockroach infestation.
- Can be used for indoor and outdoor purposes.
As water roaches are not resistant to insecticides, simply put the Advion cockroach gel bait in corners and cupboards – this will help you eliminate them.
Conclusion
Be it water bugs or roaches, taking necessary precautions is extremely important. Now that you know the difference between water bug vs. roach, it will be easy to identify and terminate them if they invade your home.
FAQs
Q1. Do water bugs bite?
Ans. Yes. Water bugs do bite. But their bites do not hurt much. Sometimes, rashes might occur but are not dangerous.
Q2. Are water bugs harmless?
Ans. Water roaches, also called water bugs, are at risk of contamination. They carry disease-causing bacterias which can make you sick.
Q3. What happens when a water bug touches you?
Ans. When a roach touches you, it might scratch your skin with spined legs.
Q4. Do water bugs lay eggs?
Ans. Many roaches are capable of laying eggs a few months after hatching. Female water roaches lay small oval-sized eggs about a week after hatching.
