Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

What is the primary outdoor harborage site for the Asian cockroach?

1. Tree holes

2. Wall voids

3. Leaf litter

4. Basements

The correct answer is: Leaf litter

The primary outdoor harborage site for the Asian cockroach is leaf litter. This species of cockroach thrives in moist, shaded environments typical of areas rich in organic matter. Leaf litter provides cover and humidity, which are essential for their survival and reproduction. In leaf litter, Asian cockroaches can find food sources such as decaying plant matter and organic debris, which contribute to their diet. Additionally, the structure of leaf litter offers protection from predators and harsh environmental conditions, making it an ideal habitat for this insect. Other potential options such as tree holes, wall voids, and basements do have significance in understanding the habitats of cockroaches in general, but they do not match the specific preferences of Asian cockroaches as closely as leaf litter does. Tree holes, for example, might provide shelter but are not as prevalent for this species. Wall voids are more relevant in indoor settings rather than outdoor habitats, and basements are typically associated with domestic infestations rather than their native outdoor environments.