Evaluation of Cockroach Surveillance Devices

Four cockroach traps were evaluated for potential Army use as cockroach surveillance devices. The Detector(R), Mr. Sticky(R), Roatel(R), and Shock'M'All(R) were evaluated in a series of tests designed to determine the effectiveness of each trap in sampling a population of known density and instar composition within a confined space. A second series was designed to test the comparative trapping capabilities of three traps, excluding the Shock'M'All. The Detector and Mr. Sticky, the two disposable traps which utilize adhesive surfaces, were evaluated in an operational test at two dining facilities. None of the traps produced statistically consistent results although three of the traps could be used as survey devices for cockroaches with varying degrees of utility. A cost-benefit analysis using seven parameters revealed that The Detector was the trap of choice followed closely by the Mr. Sticky. It was recommended that use of The Detector or Mr. Sticky should involve a minimum of two consecutive nights using the same trap, to dampen the inconsistency of sampling. The Roatel trap was recommended for use if colonization is the primary function of the survey. The Shock'M'All trap was not recommended for use as a control or surveillance device due to electrical hazard potential. (Author)