Which of the following is a contributing factor to the success of German cockroaches?

The success of German cockroaches is largely attributed to their remarkable ability to find harborage in a wide variety of areas. This adaptability allows them to thrive in numerous environments, especially in human dwellings where they can easily exploit a range of hiding spots such as cracks, crevices, and other sheltered spaces that provide protection from predators and harsh conditions. Their tendency to congregate in warm, dark places, close to food and moisture sources, further enhances their survival and reproductive success.

German cockroaches are not characterized by low reproductive potential; in fact, they reproduce quickly and in large numbers, contributing to population explosions. Additionally, rather than being highly sensitive to pesticides, they have developed several resistance mechanisms over time, making them more challenging to control. Their mobility is also quite high, allowing them to scavenge effectively for food and evade threats.

The combination of these traits, particularly their capacity to find harborage in many areas, is what makes them a persistent and problematic pest in residential and commercial settings.