Waterbug vs Cockroach:

What They Look Like & How to Get Rid of Them

Many people use these terms interchangeably, despite the fact that these two insects -- while looking similar -- are actually quite different. This is important to know when you're trying to plan for the possibility of water bug and cockroach infestations.

  Water Bug Cockroach You might not realize it, but some insects are often referred to by incorrect and/or different names. For example, when people refer to a potato bug, there's a good chance they mean the woodlouse (or pillbug), whereas Jerusalem cricket is often known as the potato bug. Another example is the June bug. While people from places like Arizona are referring to the large, green variety, many residents of the Mid-west use the term to refer to a smaller, brown version of the same insect. This is also what happens when discussing water bugs and cockroaches. Let's take a look at how each species differs:

What They Look Like

Handling water bug and cockroach infestations can be a bit difficult, as many homeowners have learned. It gets even harder, however, when you don't even know what kind of insect you're dealing with. These two critters look quite similar. Their bodies, for the most part, appear close enough to each other, and since cockroaches are typically light tan to dark brown in color and water bugs are tan to black, even their colors aren't much help. In fact, the best ways to tell these two species apart are from their mouths, eyes, etc. ... and who wants to get that close to either one?   Handling water bug and cockroach infestations can be a bit difficult, as many homeowners have learned. It gets even harder, however, when you don't even know what kind of insect you're dealing with. These two critters look quite similar.

Where They Live

Aside from their appearance, this is the number one reason why people get them confused. Since insects such as the American cockroach often live in sewers, people refer to them as water bugs. But that is a misnomer. The fact of the matter is that cockroaches live on land, while water bugs -- as their name indicates -- reside in the water (at least the majority of the time).  

What They Eat

Cockroaches are mainly scavengers and opportunistic eaters. They rarely kill other insects for food and instead rely on sustenance from whatever's lying around. Water bugs, on the other hand, are often known to not only kill insects but small fish and amphibians.   Cockroach

How to Get Rid of Them

Water bug and cockroach infestations are handled in a somewhat similar manner, but with one big difference: water sources. This is where you'll want to concentrate much of your efforts. Although this can also decrease your cockroach population, water bugs are aquatic, which means they are especially susceptible. By removing water sources from around your home, you'll help keep water bugs away. But don't forget to plug up holes and remove any clutter, as well. And if that doesn't work, seek the help of a roach exterminator professional.***

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