About Ectobius vittiventris (Costa, 1847)
Ectobius vittiventris, commonly known as the amber wood cockroach, amber forest cockroach, or garden cockroach, is a species of wood cockroach in the order Blattodea that originally comes from southern Europe. This species is completely harmless to humans and is not a storage pest. It feeds exclusively on decomposing plant material, and dies within a few days when it enters human homes, due to lack of suitable food. Its original native range was south of the Alps, but it is now permanently established north of the Alps and in southern Germany. Because the amber forest cockroach can fly, it can accidentally enter human dwellings, particularly in areas located near its natural habitat. It is attracted to artificial light sources. The natural habitat of the amber forest cockroach is outdoors, in low bushes and gardens, and it is often found under plant pots. It feeds on decomposing plant material. Warm, dry summers can promote mass reproduction of the species, which increases the chance that some individuals will move into residential homes.
