The Australian cockroach (Validiblatta australasiae), synonym Periplaneta australasiae, is a species of cockroach in the family Blattidae. It is a common species of tropical cockroach, with a length of 23–35 mm (0.91–1.38 in).
It is brown overall, with the tegmina having a conspicuous lateral pale stripe or margin, and the pronotum (head shield) with a sharply contrasting pale or yellow margin. It is very similar in appearance to the American cockroach and may be easily mistaken for it. It is, however, slightly smaller than the American cockroach, and has a yellow margin on the thorax and yellow streaks at its sides near the wing base.
Distribution
Despite its name, the Australian cockroach is a cosmopolitan species, and an introduced species in Australia. V. australasiae probably originated in Africa. It is very common in the southern United States and in tropical climates, and can be found in many locations throughout the world due to its travels by shipping and commerce between locations.
