Giant water bugs breed in the Mediterranean, especially near the island of Cyprus.

This impressive insect, several centimeters long, causes a very painful bite.

A dream bath that turned into a nightmare.

Although the island of Cyprus is particularly popular with tourists for its paradisiacal beaches, some travelers have made a terrifying discovery the first time they dipped their toes in the sand. Indeed, a large number of giant water bugs have infested the shoreline and are breeding in the Mediterranean Sea, reports Géo. They are deterring vacationers and swimmers who fear getting stung on their toes while relaxing in the turquoise waters.

The size of this invasive insect is impressive. The bug measures no less than 7 centimeters and can reach up to 12 centimeters in length. This discreet species, most often seen in still and calm waters, is also a remarkable predator, attacking crustaceans, as well as fish and turtles. Be careful, as its bite is very painful and considered the most dangerous insect bite, the magazine reports.

Bedbugs may have migrated in search of food

Why are these giant water bugs appearing in the Mediterranean? A study published in the Works of the National Museum of Natural History “Grigore Antipa” and reported by Géo indicates that this species had never been seen on the island before 2020. According to the report, the species may have been “moved by wind and sea currents” from Israel or Syria, where it is usually found.

This phenomenon could also be explained by a “decrease in food resources” in their original range. Reports are mounting, but scientists have yet to provide a definitive explanation for this migration. Until then, caution is advised on Cypriot beaches and avoiding water.