Habits: They ar found throughout structures but show a preference for warm and humid places. They are usually found in kitchens and secondarily in bathrooms, but infestations often occur in rooms where people eat and drink while watching television such as dens, bedrooms, etc. Most commonly introduced into buildings via paper products or paper packaging such as grocery bags, cardboard boxes, drink cartons, and via secondhand appliances such as refrigerators, televisions, VCRs, microwaves, etc. They feed on almost anything with nutritive value including food, soap, glue, and toothpaste.

Potential hazards: It has been implicated in outbreaks of illness, the transmission of a variety of pathogenic organisms including at least one parasitic protozoan, and allergic reactions in many people.

Control: Baits are effective but correct placement along junctions and/or cracks and crevices in or near harborages is essential. At least 95% of the population must be eliminated on the initial clean-out service or the typical maintenance program will usually fail.

Prevention: Prompt disposal of paper products and the elimination of potential food sources.