The Surinam roach is often introduced indoors from what source?

• A. From potted plants
• B. From soil
• C. From food waste
• D. From pets

Answer: (A)

Surinam roaches are commonly brought indoors by hitchhiking with plant material. When you bring in potted plants, their moist potting soil and root area can harbor eggs or young roaches, and these containers are easily transported from nurseries or shipments right into homes. That makes potted plants a frequent source of indoor introductions.

While soil can contain these roaches, the typical pathway referenced in this scenario is the plant itself and its potting mix, since that’s what’s moved and opened up for entry. Food waste may attract roaches once they’re inside, but it’s not the usual way this species is first introduced indoors. Pets aren’t a vector for bringing in these cockroaches.