Ikaria: Rare, Poisonous Insect Found on Beach

The poisonous bite of the Lethocerus Patruelis can cause intense pain in humans, which lasts for a few hours, but is not fatal

A rare, poisonous insect was found by vacationers on Argyrou beach, in the Lefkada area of Ikaria.

According to Skai, it is a Lethocerus Patruelis Belostomatidae, as it is officially called, the largest aquatic insect in Europe.

Lethocerus Patruelis is usually found in warm and tropical climates. Its length can reach up to 12 centimeters. Unlike other insects of the Belostomatidae family, the female lays its eggs on the beach, near the sea and usually on human constructions, with the male guarding them from other predators and occasionally wetting them with seawater.

In Greece, Lethocerus Patruelis are rarely encountered, as they are usually found in areas with warm and tropical climates, but their presence in the country has increased in the last two years.

The Lethocerus Patruelis feeds on small shellfish, fish and amphibians, while its poisonous bite to humans can cause intense pain, which lasts for a few hours, but does not cause death, unless the victim is allergic to its venom.