Brits heading for Spain this summer are warned they face plagues of cockroaches due to the impact of climate change
- Environmental association Anecpla has warned of potential roach infestations
- Experts say higher temperatures and genetic mutations are to blame
Brits heading for Spain this summer could face cockroach infestations due to climate change and genetic mutations.
The alert has been raised by Spanish environmental association Anecpla which says the ghastly insects will come out in their droves and show a very noticeable increase due to higher temperatures.
They are warning all bars, restaurants, hotels and any other business in the hospitality industry to take urgent action if they spot any early signs of cockroach plagues.
Warning that a 'summer of significant cockroach infestations is approaching' Anecpla general director Jorge Galván said: 'On the one hand, the increase in temperatures as a result of climate change is causing insects like bedbugs or cockroaches, in this case, exponentially accelerate their life cycle.'
'On the other hand, there is evidence that cockroaches have been suffering in recent years from a series of random genetic mutations that are making them resistant to the biocide products that, until now, were being used for their control,' he added.
Tourists in Spain could face plagues of cockroaches, experts have warned.
Spanish environmental association Anecpla has said higher temperatures and genetic mutations are the reason for possible roach infestations.
Anecpla has recommended maintaining cleanliness, avoiding water leaks, sealing cracks and holes and using rubbish containers with tight lids to avoid a roach invasion.
According to Spanish news outlet La Razon, so far this year, the country's authorities have reported a significant rise in cockroach plague - up by 33% compared to the rate in 2023.
Anecpla said it is scientifically proven that, from 28 degrees celsius, cockroaches, like many other insects, multiply their reproduction speed.
'The heat arrives in the middle of spring and does not end until well into autumn, so cockroach populations have only expanded,' said Mr. Galván.
Added to the problem is the increasingly stronger restrictions coming from Europe regarding the legislation linked to the use of biocides, he explained.
'Of course, environmental health professionals evaluate the cost-benefit that exists depending on the situation and we give preference whenever possible to physical and biological measures over chemical ones,' said the Anecpla boss.
'But when there is no other possible solution for the adequate control of a pest such as, in this case, cockroaches, its use is essential.'
To avoid an infestation, Anecpla recommended maintaining cleanliness, avoiding water leaks, sealing cracks and holes and using rubbish containers with tight lids.
'One of the greatest risks posed by cockroaches is the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses capable of transmitting important diseases to people. An especially important problem within the food industry, given that these insects act as reservoirs for bacteria and viruses that they spread due to their unhealthy habits and the places they live,' warned Mr Galvan.
