World's one of most invasive species arrive in Europe. See what is it

A study has found that red fire ants, one of the most invasive species on the earth and the fifth most expensive to combat, have reached Europe. With the scientific name of Solenopsis invicta, the red ants have their origin in South America. Their sting is ‘painful and irritating' and can cause pustules and allergic reactions. The stings can trigger potentially deadly anaphylactic shock.

Red fire ants’ nests found in Italy

The researchers have claimed to have found 88 nests of the red ants spread over five acres near the Italian city of Syracuse on the island of Sicily. According to a study published in the journal 'Current Biology', the colonization potential of the ants in Europe is alarming and Climate Change can further escalate it.

Red fire ants spread

These ants have spread to the US, Mexico, the Caribbean, China, Taiwan and Australia in less than a century. The U.S. has suffered a loss of $ 5 billion due to the presence of these ants and Australia has spent millions of dollars on its eradication, without much success.

Red fire ants originated in America?

The researchers have concluded by genetic analysis that these ants might have originated in the U.S. or China. But it is not clear how the ants reached Italy. The scientists have analyzed the wind direction. They think that some flying queen ants could have arrived from the northwest, where the port of Syracuse is located. It is also thought that there must be a transit point from where these ants have spread to other parts.

Red fire ants may spread to Paris, London

They have warned that large cities like Barcelona, Rome, London, or Paris could be affected by this invasive species. They have expressed concerns that as the Mediterranean coasts have a climate suitable for these red ants, they can further facilitate their spread.

Dr Roger Vila of Spain’s Institute of Evolutionary Biology, said that considering the climate change predictions these red ants may further spread to other parts of Europe.

FAQs:

How is the spread of red fire ants related to climate change?
Researchers have said that climate change may further facilitate the spread of the red fire ants because the climate conditions may be suitable for them.

Where did the red fire ants originate?
Researchers have said that the red fire ants might have originated in the U.S. or China and they might have spread to Europe. They don't know how they reached there. But they guess that some queen ants might have flown to Europe.