Blattodea are cursorial (adapted for running) and move rapidly. They have flattened bodies and their head is concealed from above by their pronotum. They have two pairs of wings, but in some species the wings are greatly reduced.
Cockroaches are somewhat general feeders. They do have a preference for materials high in fats and starches. They deposit their eggs in a capsule called an ootheca. Several species invade homes where they can contaminate food. They have an unpleasant odor and can be very annoying in the home. Cockroaches go through simple metamorphosis.
Some insects in this order: American cockroach, German cockroach.