Which feature is characteristic of a German cockroach?

The characteristic feature of the German cockroach is the presence of two longitudinal dark stripes on its pronotum, which is the shield-like structure covering its thorax. These stripes are distinctive and help in identifying this species among other cockroaches. The German cockroach is typically light brown to tan in color, making the dark stripes more prominent. This visual cue is essential for pest control professionals to correctly identify and manage infestations, as the German cockroach is one of the most common and problematic species found in residential and commercial settings.

In contrast, the bright orange coloration mentioned would more likely pertain to other species of cockroaches, while a solid black color is indicative of species like the American cockroach or Oriental cockroach. Large wings extending beyond the abdomen is also a feature of some other species, but the German cockroach, while capable of flight, typically has wings that do not extend significantly beyond its body. Understanding these identifying traits is crucial for effective pest control strategies.