The much maligned cockroach is more sophisticated, and social, than we thought, according to new research.
They hide away, unseen, lurking in dark corners and crevices.
And they form closely bonded, egalitarian societies, based on social structures and rules. Communities of cockroaches are even capable of making collective decisions for the "greater good".
Living among us
A small proportion of insect species are renowned for their social skills.
Cockroaches are among the hardiest insects on the planet.
They are also extremely adaptable to new environments and will eat almost anything.
Young cockroaches, it seems, need to be around and in constant physical contact with one another to properly develop.
Sometimes the cockroaches lay scent trails by depositing faeces rich in these chemicals, which other cockroaches can follow.
Perhaps the most striking revelation about the secret lives of cockroaches though, is the extent to which they form "social herds" and can make collective decisions.
In eusocial insects, a queen will dominate, reserving breeding privileges for herself, supported by thousands of workers.
In eusocial insects, a queen will dominate, reserving breeding privileges for herself, supported by thousands of workers.
*This story has been edited from the original
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