What is the role of cockroaches in the world?

Talking about cockroaches can take us to moments that are unattractive and striking for our mind, since people mostly associate this animal with unpleasant moments and it's no wonder. But apart from the fear, disgust or dread of these insects, have you ever wondered what is the function of cockroaches on the planet? , or what would happen if they didn't exist?

The scientific name is Blattodea and so far around 4500 species are known in the world. Their rapid reproduction and great adaptability in various environments, periods, climates and more have made them prevail so far. It is one of the most surviving insects in the history of the world.

But as we mentioned, for several years most human beings have found a negative experience in them, because they are insects that are very fast at the time of walking, a little larger and also come from waste and unhygienic places. The pathological fear that people have of this living being is called blatophobia.

Leaving aside fear and other sensations, it is time to know what the role of cockroaches in the world is and what would happen to humans and planet Earth if they didn't exist. Then the answer.

ROLE OF COCKROACHES IN THE WORLD

1. Food source for mammals:

Recall that in the world there are approximately 4,500 species of cockroaches, and therefore, in their great variety they serve as food for many birds and mammals. Although it sounds incredible, some humans from different cultures consume certain species of this insect.

With regard to birds, for example, the main food of the red-billed woodpecker is these insects, since they make up 50% of the bird's feed.

2. Food chain for other animals:

As we mentioned in the point above, cockroaches are part of the basic consumption of certain animals. Should this insect disappear, the food chain of larger living beings would be indirectly affected. Among the affected species could be reptiles, eagles, wolves and more.

3. Nutrients for the earth:

Arthropods that live in forests consume plant materials. By entering natural inputs, they combine with the microbes they harbor in their womb, which help break down the plant matter that is degraded and not digestible to other creatures.

At the time of secretion, other microbes found in the earth feed on it and thus forms a chain. In the case of certain blattodea species they also contribute to pollination in tropical areas.

FACT: Its role as a predator includes the consumption of species or pests that threaten agricultural growth and development.

4. Nitrogen source.

How is nitrogen associated with cockroaches? The answer is simple, but first you should know why nitrogen is needed on the planet.

Humans and plants, especially trees, need nitrogen. The growth of these cannot occur without this chemical element. Its presence in the environment also generates a life chain. For example, its existence allows the production of amino acids, which in turn produce proteins that build cells within the body. The production of DNA is also supported by nitrogen.

This element is also basic for photosynthesis. But what does this have to do with cockroaches?

It's simple. They feed on all organic matter that is decaying, which has a lot of atmospheric hydrogen inside. Invertebrates consume them and then release them through their faeces and with it hydrogen also comes out. Trees and other species that need this element begin to feed on it.

Therefore, if the cockroaches were to disappear, this cycle would be affected and would end up disturbing the life of every living thing found on the planet. Climate change would become more drastic.

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