Cockroaches are among the most reviled insects, yet emerging research suggests they have more complex nervous systems and behaviors than commonly assumed.
Cockroaches are typically killed through methods including gel baits, sticky traps, and residual insecticides that cause prolonged death rather than rapid humane killing. While their sentience status is uncertain, their nervous system complexity and behavioral repertoire are more sophisticated than often assumed. The precautionary principle suggests considering welfare even for invertebrates we find aversive. Research into rapid humane pest control methods benefits both pest management and potential invertebrate welfare.