What happens to German cockroach eggs after they are dropped?

After German cockroach eggs are dropped, they are encased in a protective egg case known as an ootheca. This protective layer helps shield the developing embryos from environmental hazards and predation, allowing them to grow until they are ready to hatch. The eggs typically take around 28 to 30 days to develop before hatching, not merely about a day.

The correct understanding of their development is critical. Once the female German cockroach drops the egg case, it doesn't hatch immediately; instead, the eggs are vulnerable to the elements and potential threats. The eggs remain in the protective case for several weeks before hatching into nymphs.

Thus, the process of hatching involves a timeframe that exceeds what was indicated in the chosen answer. Understanding the lifecycle of German cockroaches helps in implementing effective pest control strategies, particularly identifying and targeting their reproduction stages.