How are Australian cockroaches commonly introduced into shopping malls?

Australian cockroaches are typically introduced into shopping malls primarily through the soil of trees and plants. This happens when potted plants or decorative landscaping materials are brought into these environments, as the cockroaches may be present in the soil or vegetation.

Cockroaches are adept at hiding and can hitch a ride on the root systems of plants or in the pots themselves. This introduction method is particularly concerning in places like shopping malls, where live plants are commonly used for aesthetic purposes.

While other options might seem plausible, such as foodstuffs or cardboard boxes, the direct association of pests with soil in potted plants is well-documented and stands out as a primary vector for introducing this species into new areas. The presence of cockroaches in electronics, although possible in some scenarios, is less common compared to the soil and plants method.