What are these giant water bugs invading the Mediterranean Sea?

Favorable sea currents

Researchers believe the insects may have been carried by winds and currents from Israel or Syria, where they occur naturally.

A food shortage in their original habitat

A decrease in resources in their natural ecosystem could have pushed them to migrate to new areas richer in prey.

Global warming

Rising temperatures and changes in aquatic environments could encourage this species to establish itself in unusual areas.

For now, scientists remain cautious about the exact causes of this migration, but one thing is certain: their presence is becoming increasingly worrying.

How to avoid a bite?

If you are planning a vacation to Cyprus or other Mediterranean beaches, here are some precautions to take to avoid a nasty encounter with these giant water bugs:

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