Periplaneta americana (L.): INEFFECTIVENESS IN CONTROL, ENVIRONMENTAL DAMAGE AND ON PUBLIC HEALTH WITH A FOCUS ON ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

Abstract

Abstract: Cockroaches are insects widely known worldwide for causing disgust in people. However, what many do not know is that these animals are also very dangerous as they act as mechanical vectors of harmful pathogens to humans and domestic animals. These animals live in places with low sanitation conditions, such as landfills and sewage pipes, allowing them to come into contact with various pathogenic microorganisms. The major problem is that cockroaches invade human dwellings in search of shelter, food, and protection, thereby bringing pathogens into communities. Their current control is mainly done with synthetic chemical insecticides. However, these products, besides often being ineffective, cause various damages to the environment and human health. Therefore, studies are necessary to develop biological control techniques for these urban pests aiming for greater efficacy and less impact on the environment and public health. Furthermore, it is necessary to raise awareness among the population about the risks that these animals pose, as well as the risks of synthetic chemical insecticides, so that society as a whole understands the reasons and needs for conducting studies based on biological control.

Keywords: Cockroach. Biological control. Entomopathogenic fungi. Plant extracts.