Sitting quietly on the grass can become a dangerous experience in Europe. This is due to the impending arrival of red ants. A team led by Institute for Evolutionary Biology (IBE), a mixed center of the High Council for Scientific Research (CSIC) and Pompeu Fabra University (UPF) have identified 88 red fire ant nests spread over approximately five hectares next to the city of Syracuse, Sicily (Italy).

The red fire ant is an invasive species It causes a major impact on ecosystems, agriculture and human health. His sting is painful and irritating and can cause pustules and allergic reactions, which can lead to anaphylactic shock. This species is native to South America and has spread throughout the United States, Mexico, China and Australia in less than a century, causing a major negative impact on ecosystems and human health.

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This is believed to be the first time that several nests have been identified on the continent. Until now, its presence has only been detected on the European continent and on the Iberian Peninsula during some routine checks at ports.. “These insects have explosive expansion capabilities”explains Roger Vila, leader of the research published in the journal Current biology

The species has a high capacity for colonization and survival, making it a significant threat to biodiversity and the global economy.

“We discovered it a bit by accident,” explains Enrico Schifani, co-author of the study who worked in the field. “We went in winter, when most ants are not active, but they were.”

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Expansion throughout Europe

According to research that has discovered ants in Europe, half of the urban areas in Europe would be suitable for their settlement due to their environmental conditions. Major cities such as Barcelona, ​​Rome, London or Paris could see their activity changed by this invasive species, which could affect people’s lifestyles due to its abundance and aggressiveness.

Experience in the United States shows that these ants can cause serious damage to machinery (due to their attraction to electrical systems) and damage to sidewalks (due to the large holes they create), in addition to preventing outdoor activities in some areas. (JO)