Depopulation of cockroaches in the ex-USSR countries

A mass depopulation of cockroaches has been observed since the beginning of the 21st century in Russia and other countries of the former USSR. Observers note quick disappearance of various types of cockroaches from cities and towns in Russia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Moldova, and Belarus.

Rational explanations

• The depopulation of cockroaches may be exaggerated, or this phenomenon is temporary or cyclic. Usage of plastic bags to store domestic waste and the discontinuation of rubbish chutes usage may also be a factor. Also, cockroaches might have migrated out of homes to other, more suitable places. New, improved chemicals and methods to fight cockroaches may be a cause for alleged cockroach migration, or might be a factor of said depopulation. Usage of modern construction materials may also contribute to the phenomenon; the population of cockroaches might have been reduced due to their purported ingestion of unsafe balls. However, cockroaches were noticed to disappear even in the houses where such construction materials were not used. Finally, the emergence of Pharaoh Ants, who compete with the cockroaches for food, and may even feed on them may also be a factor. Of course, a "perfect storm" with several of these factors may be the reason why the cockroach population have decreased.

Other explanations

• The introduction of genetically modified food might have a negative influence on cockroaches. Radioactive or chemical pollution (in Chernovtsy, Tambov, as well as due to Chernobyl disaster) may also be a factor. However, there is an opinion that cockroaches are insensitive to radiation. Furthermore, widespread introduction of mobile phones and wireless networks might have a negative effect on the cockroaches. Ozone holes may also lead to abnormal biorhythms in cockroaches.Some people believe the depopulation of cockroaches indicates the end of the world or catastrophic events. Internal competitions between cockroaches may decrease the number of cockroaches. Finally, some species of cockroaches are edible, which means that the cockroaches may be eaten by predators.

Scientific attention to the problem

• Scientists from Chelyabinsk and Yekaterinburg have suggested that the Oriental cockroach should be added to the Red Book of Endangered Species.