Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

Which of the following areas do Oriental cockroaches prefer for their harborage?

1. Cool places close to the ground

2. Warm, humid areas

3. Near wood piles

4. Inside wall voids

The correct answer is: Cool places close to the ground

Oriental cockroaches are known for their preference for cool, dark, and damp environments, which makes proximity to the ground an ideal choice for their harborage. They typically thrive in areas that are not too exposed and have a stable microclimate, which cooler ground areas can provide, especially in urban and suburban settings. Their natural habitats often include habitats such as basements, sewer systems, and other similar locations where the temperature remains relatively low and moisture is abundant. This affinity for cooler places helps them to avoid desiccation and provides them with the conditions needed to reproduce and thrive. The other options, while they may provide some level of habitat, do not align as closely with the specific environmental preferences exhibited by Oriental cockroaches.