Strange warning for ‘freakosystems’
A new ecosystem in which native and exotic species overturn nature is called a freecosystem. They are both worrying and mysterious.
An innocent insect with a potentially deadly sting has invaded the United States and is spreading across the country, wreaking havoc on local ecosystems.
The insect, known as the Asian sting ant, is poisonous, with a painful sting that can cause severe allergic reactions, and its spread across the country has experts concerned.
In Georgia’s deeply encroached forests, the ants are so widespread that “Asian stingers are in and under almost every stump, log, and branch on the forest floor,” U.S. Forest Service entomologist Emily Poole told USA TODAY.
But these aren’t just problems for people who go hiking, they can easily be adapted to life in cities, suburbs, and woodlands.
Here’s what you need to know about invasive ants and how to protect yourself and your family.
What do ants look like?
The Forest Service says the ants are shiny and range in color from dark brown to black. However, the hind legs and antennae are orange-brown. They are also small, with workers measuring about 0.2 inches long.
Asian needle ants can be difficult to identify because they look similar to other species of ants.
Can Asian needle ants hurt people?
Indeed, ant venom can cause a “throbbing, stinging sensation that can last more than 30 minutes,” Poole says. “The throbbing and stabbing pain may return later in the day.”
When Poole was stung, the area was red, itchy, and slightly swollen.
However, reactions vary from person to person and may be worse for people who are allergic to insect bites. Severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported after ant stings.
According to North Carolina State University, Asian sting ant venom is slightly more likely to cause an allergic reaction than a bee sting.
Where can I find Asian needle ants?
According to AntMaps, this ant is native to Asia, including China, Japan, North and South Korea, and has been reported in multiple states, including:
- arkansas
- Alabama
- connecticut
- florida
- kentucky
- georgia
- maryland
- Massachusetts
- mississippi
- missouri
- ohio
- pennsylvania
- new york
- north carolina
- rhode island
- south carolina
- tennessee
- virginia
The ants have spread to the West Coast and Midwest, and have also been reported in Washington and Wisconsin, according to Antmap.
“Because needle ants are so elusive, their range is likely wider than currently known,” Poole said.
Invading ants go unnoticed
The colony is smaller than other ant colonies commonly found in homes, according to the state of North Carolina.
“This species does not build obvious mounds like the well-known red imported fire ant,” says Poole. “Asian sting ant colonies can easily go unnoticed.”
These insects don’t make their home in typical anthills, Poole said, but instead live in places like:
- multi
- potted plants
- cracks in branches
- log
- railway sleepers
- under the fallen leaves
- Potting and landscaping soil
- wood chips
ants stay here
The ant has been in the United States for nearly 100 years, Poole said. But their impact on local ecosystems wasn’t recognized until the past 20 years, according to the Forest Service.
In areas where Asian needle ant populations are established, populations of the native ant, which is key to dispersing native plant seeds in forests, are declining.
Poole said ants are “very predatory,” hunting other insects and invertebrates and scavenging for food.
The Forest Service says management strategies and feeding options are being studied, but the ants will likely continue to live here despite the negative side effects. In addition to being expensive to eradicate, Asian sting ant control measures in wooded and remote areas can have negative effects on beneficial species.
“Once Asian stinger ants are established, they are very difficult to get rid of,” Poole said. “Prevention is the key.”
Poole said he recommends caution when moving materials, especially wood and other landscaping materials, to avoid Asian needle ant infestation.
How to protect yourself from being stung
Despite their powerful stingers, Asian stinger ants are not usually aggressive. However, people should still take precautions.
“It’s important to be aware of where you sit and where you leave your belongings,” says Poole.
Double-checking where they rest and store items can help prevent contact with colonies that may be nesting there. You should also be careful if you are near logs, rotten wood, or rocks that may harbor ants.
People with known allergens or sensitivities to insect toxins may also choose to carry an epinephrine auto-injector, or EpiPen, according to the Forest Service.
This story has been updated with new information.
Julia Gomez is USA TODAY’s trends reporter, covering popular toys, space phenomena, scientific research, natural disasters, holidays, and trending news. Connect with her on LinkedIn ×Instagram, TikTok: @juliamariegz or email jgomez@gannett.com..
