Periplaneta americana, commonly known as the American cockroach, is a large, reddish-brown insect with a distinctive yellowish figure-8 pattern on its head. It thrives in warm, moist environments and is often found in basements, sewers, and drainage systems. Known for its rapid movement, it is a nocturnal scavenger.

The Periplaneta americana, commonly known as the American cockroach, is believed to have originated in the tropical regions of Africa. However, it is now widely distributed across the globe.

The American cockroach thrives in warm, humid environments. It is commonly found in tropical and subtropical climates but can adapt to urban environments in temperate regions where it seeks out warm, moist areas like basements, sewers, and drains.

The species is primarily nocturnal and omnivorous, feeding on a wide variety of organic material. It often inhabits human dwellings and commercial establishments, where it can find food and shelter. The American cockroach plays a role in the ecosystem as a decomposer, breaking down organic material, but it is also considered a pest due to its association with unsanitary conditions and potential to spread pathogens.