The surinam roaches act as the initial decomposer in a lot of places - similiar to exotic millipedes more common in south Florida - breaking down fresh and rotting plant material for the next crew of worms, mites, springtails, and other critters to takeover as they convert mulch to soil. Their tendency to crawl upwards when exposed to vibrations is a neat quirk that anoles will learn to take advantage. Spend a lot of time outside and they’ll follow you around waiting for you to disturb the roaches. Chickens also love them and will learn to follow a lawn mower.