Population of harmful insect species increases in İstanbul, experts warn

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The population of pine processionary moth caterpillars, native to the Mediterranean region, is on the rise due to global warming, according to experts. They feed on the needles of pine trees and are hazardous to human health.

Interviewed by the state-run Anadolu Agency (AA), Bora Kaydan, an expert on insects at Çukurova University in southern Turkey, said these species could damage the Calabrian pine trees in the Mediterranean region.

"The reason why they are being spotted so frequently in İstanbul is global climate change ... One of the important effects of global warming is the migration of insects," said Kaydan, adding that they moved from the South to the North.

Also speaking to AA about possible dangers that these species pose to human health, Bülent Tutluoğlu, an expert on chest diseases, warned about serious allergic reactions.

"It can cause skin rash, common skin allergy. Normally, all insect species have the potential to create severe throat congestion as well as problems related to the airway, or respiratory tract," he added.

Tutluoğlu further said people may experience allergic reactions that could be fatal. (VK)