On the Origin of Cockroaches in the Maltese Islands

The Maltese Islands, located in the central Mediterranean, have a rich biodiversity influenced by their strategic position as a crossroads between Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. Among the many species that have adapted to the island environment, cockroaches (Order: Blattodea) hold a unique position. Their presence reflects both natural dispersal and human activities over millennia. This essay explores the origins, distribution, and documented records of cockroach species in Malta, shedding light on their historical and ecological significance.This work also includes two new species for the islands.