Celatoblatta quinquemaculata
This might be one of the coolest cockroaches anywhere because it can survive being frozen! Living in the sub-alpine and alpine zones of Otago, the Otago alpine cockroach is often exposed to freezing temperatures, even in summer. and can endure being frozen for up to four days.
This is a very attractive looking cockroach. Reaching up to about 15mm in length, it is dark brown with pale edging. The species is named quinquemaculata in reference to the pale patches on top of the thorax.
Cockroaches are probably the most misunderstood insects. Most of Aotearoa New Zealand’s native cockroaches live in the bush, tearing apart organic matter and helping to make humus. They are not household pests and usually only come inside by accident. The Otago alpine cockroach is very unlikely to ever show up at your house though. It lives in Otago mountains like the Old Man Range and is commonly seen at altitudes of around 1500m. It is a nocturnal omnivore and hides under slabs of schist during the day.
Check these links for more info on the Otago Alpine Cockroach in NZ
Wikipedia: Information on the Otago Alpine Cockroach
images
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