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Eduardo Fox:
Short answer: Insecticides are potent chemicals designed to target their nervous system when applied directly, and many leave lasting effects. Nuclear bombs, however, might miss cockroaches hiding underground, giving the radiation time to dissipate enough for their survival.
Long answer:
The widespread belief that cockroaches could survive a nuclear explosion is certainly highly exaggerated.
Naturally, any cockroach exposed to a missile strike, the tremendous shock wave, or the intense radiation wouldn't survive. However, it's true that insects, due to their smaller size and protective exoskeleton, are generally more resistant to radiation than vertebrates. Additionally, certain cockroach species are known for thriving on minimal food and reproducing at an astonishing rate considering their size.
As a result, many researchers argue that cockroaches might survive longer than vertebrates in cities hit by a major nuclear incident or attack. Whether this holds true remains to be seen.
Insecticides are chemicals specifically designed to target insects' nervous systems, leading to their swift demise while remaining effective on surfaces for a long time (residual effect). They are meant to eradicate cockroaches, while nuclear explosions aim to destroy cities. The right tool for the job, simple as that.
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