Insects, which were previously found only in warm areas such as Mediterranean, are now finding their way to the UK. Government scientists attribute this phenomenon to global warming, which not only makes it possible for these bugs to migrate towards the North but also enables them to thrive in a country with increasing temperatures and gentle winters.
Foreign Bugs are Flooding the British Ecosystem
An example of such insect is the tiger mosquito (Aedes aegypti) known for transmitting dengue fever and other diseases. Although restriction of this mosquito within southern parts of Europe was earlier practised, it has gradually moved northwards due to warmer temperatures and favourable climatic conditions. Some of these mosquitoes catch rides on ferries or trains, while others simply blow over the wind across the English Channel.
Surveillance activities by UKHSA have been initiated at some places in southern England, especially Kent and Sussex, through traps that are set up so that they can check if there is presence of tiger mosquitoes. Dr Jolyon Medlock, who is head of medical entomology at UKHSA, has warned that it might take less than 10 years for this species to be established in Britain.
The UK is preparing for a rise in cases, just like northern France, which has already witnessed an increase in dengue fever incidences. The chief scientific officer at UKHSA, Dr Isabel Oliver, warned that mosquito-borne diseases that were once confined to tropical areas are now becoming rampant in the UK due to climate change, global travel and changing land use.
In addition to dengue, other diseases including Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE), Lyme disease and West Nile virus are being closely monitored on their way to England from overseas. This involves surveillance of mosquito populations and monitoring human infections in order to keep pace with any emerging threats.
Threats to the UK’s Natural Ecosystem
Apart from the human health risks, climate change is also affecting fauna and flora across the United Kingdom. Experts are especially concerned about Ips typographus which is a European Spruce Bark Beetle threatening indigenous spruce trees in southern parts of England.
Spruce removal zones have been established in forests located around such areas as Norfolk, Suffolk, or Kent to prevent further spread of the beetle. Landowners are being asked instead to plant different species that can protect the region’s forests.
It has become almost impossible for Professor Nicola Spence, who is the UK’s Chief Plant Health Officer, to stop the advance of this beetle. The combination of a warming climate and increased global trade has made it easier for such pests to establish themselves in new environments.