Shutterstock
A newly published study shows that German cockroaches are rapidly developing resistance to insecticides.
Researchers tested three different insecticides–abamectin, boric acid, and thiamethoxam–in several infested apartments over six months.
Regardless of different chemical combinations or treatment methods, researchers were unable to reduce cockroach numbers during the six-month period.
In fact, they found that the insects’ resistance increased rapidly–as much as up to six times within one generation.
Populations actually grew in most of the treatment methods, while the others maintained their numbers. None saw a reduction in population. Tests showed that the cockroaches and their offspring became “essentially immune” to the pesticides.
Findings from this study show that we cannot rely solely on insecticides to control cockroaches. Researchers say that the study emphasizes the need for improved sanitation, traps, and vacuums in combination with chemical treatments to control the insects.
