The feared red Argentine fire ant (Solenopsis invicta) has moved beyond its South American home and arrived on the European scene. Isolated occurrences had already appeared in shipments arriving in several European countries, including Spain, but recent findings confirm a broader presence. Nests of this species were detected for the first time in Europe, particularly on the island of Sicily.
Opinions about this ant emphasize why it ranks among the most dangerous on the planet. The risks come not only from its aggressive stings, which can be extremely painful, but also from the wider impact on ecosystems and other species. The stings may lead to severe reactions, and in some cases can cause complications that affect both animals and people. In certain circumstances, severe allergic responses have been documented, including rare fatal outcomes, underscoring the threat to public health and biodiversity.
Scientists from the Institute of Evolutionary Biology, part of CSIC and Universitat Pompeu Fabra, have been tracking the species and tightening surveillance as suspicions grow more concrete. In Sicily, around the city of Syracuse, about 88 nests have been found spread over roughly five hectares. The study detailing this discovery appeared in Current Biology.
The red fire ant is considered invasive in places where it has been introduced, such as parts of China or the United States, environments that differ markedly from its native habitat. In these new settings, it disrupts local ecosystems and competes with native ant species and other organisms.
Researchers highlight climate change as a key factor that could accelerate the ant’s spread across Europe. Warming temperatures, changes in humidity, and shifting ecological conditions create openings for rapid expansion. A set of maps accompanying the study in Current Biology illustrates potential pathways for expansion across the continent.
Spain stands out as a country where red fire ants show notable activity. Projections indicate that rising temperatures and favorable humidity levels will sustain their establishment in various regions. Mediterranean port cities such as Barcelona, Valencia, Alicante, Palma, Cartagena, and Malaga may serve as entry points into the broader peninsula, facilitating movement into new areas over time.
dangerous for humans
The bite of a red fire ant is not merely painful; it can trigger the formation of skin pustules and provoke allergic reactions. In some cases, these reactions escalate to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition. There have already been isolated incidents in Spain involving people exposed to the ants at ports during the unloading of goods. Beyond immediate medical concerns, the bites contribute to broader ecological and agricultural damage, affecting crops and the health of local wildlife.
Evidence suggests that the Sicily population arrived by maritime transport, and the number of nests could be higher than those already identified around Syracuse. The possibility of additional undetected colonies remains a concern for regional authorities and scientists monitoring the species’ movements.
There is a growing list of countries dealing with this species, ranging from Argentina and Brazil to the United States, Mexico, several Caribbean nations, China, Taiwan, Australia, and New Zealand. The last country is the only one where eradication programs have achieved success in some cases, though challenges persist due to the ant’s resilience and adaptability in new environments.
Reference work: Current Biology, 2023 study on the distribution and potential spread of Solenopsis invicta. The detailed findings plus maps and analysis contribute to the understanding of how climate and trade influence the establishment of this invasive species (Current Biology).
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