Eurycotis floridana

Biological Overview

Habitat
They live in moist, warm areas, but are usually found in basements and under decks. They are also found in ivy outside the home, in mulch and in tool sheds. Their favorite is city sewer systems.

Diet
Palmetto bugs are omnivorous scavengers. They eat food crumbs, sweets, staches, and pet food. They clean up decaying plant matter in their environment.

Role in Ecosystem
Omnivorous and scavengers that clean up decaying plant matter and release nitrogen into the atmosphere.

Behavior
Mostly active at night. When in defense they have short bursts of flight or gliding. When temperature drops they find shelter inside homes.

Human Impact

Humans impact palmetto bugs in several ways, mostly through changes to their environment. The creation of warm, moist spaces like sewers, basements, and kitchens provide perfect habitats for these insects, allowing their populations to grow in cities. The use of pesticides and pest control methods can reduce their numbers, but sometimes these chemicals can also harm other species. Additionally, improper waste management and leaving out food scraps give palmetto bugs easy access to food, encouraging infestations.

Creative Exploration

As the sun sets over a warm southern city, a palmetto bug named Percy wakes up from his hiding spot under a pile of damp leaves. The world above is quiet, but Percy’s night is just beginning. He stretches his long antennae, sensing the air for any signs of food or danger. Carefully, he scurries out, his brown shell blending in with the shadows. First stop, the kitchen trash can. Percy squeezes through a tiny crack and finds a feast! Crumbs, fruit peels, and even a sticky drop of soda. He munches happily, always alert for sudden movements. After his meal, Percy explores the cool, dark pipes under the sink. He loves the moisture here. It keeps his body from drying out. He meets a few friends and they exchange quick antennae greetings before heading off in different directions. As the night goes on, Percy dodges a curious cat and hides behind a broom. He climbs up a wall, using tiny hooks on his legs, and rests on the ceiling for a while. From up high, he’s always on the lookout for new hiding spots. Before dawn, Percy returns to his favorite hiding place. He cleans his antennae, tucks in his legs, and waits for the world above to wake up. Another night, another adventure for Percy, the palmetto bug.

Cody Barksdale, Kimberly Velasco, KyZeriah Greene

Book 5