It is the largest species of cockroach in the world, and can be up to 5 centimeters, can fly and is already present in practically all neighboring Spain and Portugal. The American periplanet, commonly known as the American cockroach, is considered one of the most invasive urban pests of the present, according to the work. Spanish researchers linked to the anticimex pest control company warn that this cockroach is already in 88% of Spanish territory.
A plague that is here to stay
Its presence was confirmed in more than a thousand Spanish municipalities, including coastal and urban areas where heat and humidity conditions favor its reproduction, as referred to in the same source.
According to the Española Asociación de Entomología, the species is expanding frank and is already a major cause of disinfestation requests. In Spain, between 2020 and 2023, more than 623,000 uninience certificates related to this specific type of cockroach were issued.
The investigation points out that the American periplanet is present in 44 of the 50 Spanish provinces and in the two autonomous cities. Its higher incidence is registered in the southern, east and archipelagos of the cannaries and whaares. In the north interior, as in the provinces of Ávila, Soria or Zamora, the species has not yet been detected in significant numbers.
Prague in Portuguese Territory
Portuguese pest control companies, such as Pragalgarve, confirm that the American periplanet has already been identified in various areas of the country. Its presence is more common in urban and coastal areas, where heat conditions, moisture and population density favor its propagation.
A resistant species
About 5 centimeters long, this cockroach has a reddish brownish tone and, in adult, develops two wings. Males even have longer wings than the body. They preferably live in humid and hot places, such as sewage, cellars or garages.
Its life cycle can last between 14 and 15 months and during this time a female can deposit up to 10 capsules with 14 to 16 eggs each. According to the source mentioned above, the duration of development depends on the temperature, ranging from 6 months to 2 years.
Adaptation capacity
The American cockroach is still distinguished by its incredible adaptability. It can survive both urban and rural environments, and has been detected even in old Minas Galleries. According to this, this versatility helps to explain its rapid expansion and the growing difficulty in controlling infestations.
Sanitary authorities and pest control companies recommend attention to signs of infestation, especially in the hottest months.
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