In recent days, residents of various neighborhoods of La Plata began to report the massive presence of water bugs, an unusual insect in urban areas that has caused concern due to its sudden appearance on terraces, sidewalks and near watercourses.
The sightings are repeated mainly in areas near streams, green areas and sectors with accumulated moisture, but cases have also been recorded in residential areas far from the urban area. The situation is part of a broader phenomenon that affects the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Area (AMBA) and is spreading to our city due to favorable environmental conditions.
The invasion of water bugs was reported in San Carlos and Los Hornos, but also in Gonnet, City Bell and Villa Elisa. To a lesser extent, EL DIA readers asserted that these errors occurred at the Urban Center. “What is this invasion of La Plata?” was the most common question received on EL DIA’s WhatsApp (+5492214779896) since last week and is repeated every day. The truth is that the presence of these insects is a cause for concern because “we have to keep everything closed because they get into the house,” they said.
Experts explain that the spread of these insects is linked to the high temperatures of mid-December, the recent rains and the increase in humidity, factors that create an ideal environment for their reproduction. Water bugs typically inhabit lagoons, streams, and standing water, but when conditions change or habitat is altered, they can move in large numbers.
Water bugs in La Plata: the phenomenon and the risks
Although their appearance may seem intimidating, water bugs do not pose a serious health risk to humans. They do not transmit disease and can only cause a painful bite when touched or threatened. For this reason, it is recommended to avoid direct contact and not to try to crush them with your hands.
From the environmental sector, they pointed out that it is a seasonal phenomenon that usually increases in times of extreme heat and tends to disappear naturally as temperatures fall. However, the presence may be more pronounced in cities such as La Plata, where there are numerous watercourses and forested areas.
In this situation, residents are advised to keep patios and drains clean, reduce the accumulation of standing water, and seal cracks in doors and windows to prevent insects from entering homes. In case of persistent or invasive presence, it is recommended to contact municipal authorities or environmental control specialists and avoid indiscriminate use of insecticides.
The appearance of water bugs once again highlights the impact of extreme weather conditions on urban life and the need to coexist with natural phenomena that, although conspicuous, are part of the local ecosystem.
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