What percentage of German roaches must be eliminated during the first service for a successful treatment?

To achieve a successful treatment for German cockroaches, eliminating 95% of the population during the first service is essential. This high level of removal is critical because German roaches reproduce rapidly and can establish new infestations quickly if a significant percentage is not eliminated initially.

The rationale behind this percentage lies in understanding the behavior and lifecycle of the German cockroach. They are known for their ability to breed swiftly, with females capable of producing multiple egg cases, each containing dozens of eggs. If 95% or more of the population is removed during the initial treatment, it significantly reduces the breeding stock and helps to prevent reinfestation.

Lower percentages, such as 75%, 85%, or even 90%, may leave behind enough individuals to allow for quick repopulation, making it difficult to manage and control the infestation in the long term. Therefore, targeting 95% elimination helps ensure that the treatment is effective and reduces the likelihood of needing multiple follow-up services to control the population.