SURVEY ON THE ABUNDANCE OF COCKROACHES IN FEMALE HOSTELS: A CASE STUDY OF USMANU DANFODIYO UNIVERSITY, SOKOTO, NIGERIA

Abstract

SURVEY ON THE ABUNDANCE OF COCKROACHES IN FEMALE HOSTELS: A CASE STUDY OF USMANU DANFODIYO UNIVERSITY, SOKOTO, NIGERIA

^1*Yusuf, M., ²Minin, A.Y. and ³Magami, I.M.

^1*Department of Biology Zamfara State University T/Mafara  

²Department of Biology Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto

³Department of Biology Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto

Correspondent Author’s Email: myusufmaradun123@gmail.com Mobile: 08103516732

Abstract

Cockroaches are prevalent pests in urban settings, commonly linked to unsanitary conditions and the potential spread of various pathogens. Their persistent infestations in residential and commercial areas present significant public health concerns. This study aimed to evaluate the abundance of cockroaches in female private hostels on the main campus of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS). Cockroaches were collected daily between 8:00 PM and 12:00 AM using baited wide-mouth jars coated with Vaseline on the inner surface to prevent escape. Weakened cockroaches were manually collected using gloves. The collected specimens were transported to the laboratory for sorting and identification. A total of 53 cockroaches were collected during the study, with only two species identified: Periplaneta americana (American cockroach) and Blattella germanica (German cockroach), using standard identification keys. The American cockroach was the dominant species in the female private hostels. Sex identification revealed that female cockroaches were more abundant, with 27 individuals (50.9%), compared to males, with 26 individuals (49.1%). The findings underscore the prevalence of cockroach infestations in the study area, highlighting the need for enhanced sanitary measures in the hostels.

Keywords: Abundance, Cockroaches, Identification, Infestation, Public Health