Which species of cockroaches have the most poorly developed wings as adults?

The Oriental cockroach is characterized by having adults with poorly developed wings, particularly in females. Unlike other cockroach species, Oriental females have wings that are significantly shorter than their bodies and do not function for flight. This adaptation reflects their preference for a more ground-dwelling lifestyle, as they are more often found in the moist, dark environments where they can hide and scavenge for food.

In contrast, the other species listed tend to have more developed wings, even though some females may not utilize them for flying; for example, German and Brownbanded females retain enough wing structure that can serve a purpose, but they are not typically as reduced as those of the Oriental species. The American cockroach females also have wings but, like the other species mentioned, are not restricted to ground movement. Therefore, when identifying which species of cockroaches have the most poorly developed wings as adults, the Oriental cockroach stands out as the correct choice.