Missourians should be on the lookout for the Asian needle ant during its population peak in July and August, said Emily Althoff, urban entomologist for the University of Missouri and Lincoln University Extension.
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Missourians should be on the lookout for the Asian needle ant during its population peak in July and August, said Emily Althoff, urban entomologist for the University of Missouri and Lincoln University Extension.
Confirmed in 18 states
Eighteen states have confirmed the presence of the insect: Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, Wisconsin and Washington. Records of the species can be found on the Antmaps website at antmaps.org.
This environmental disruptor is drawn to moist, shady spots, leaf little and dead logs, including firewood. It is hard to spot because of its small size, about 0.2 inches in length, said Althoff. Unlike many other insects, it does not leave mounds or foraging trails.
Little ant, big bully
The Asian needle ant is the bully of the ant family, taking over the homes of other ants, eating their food and even eating other ants. Althoff said this poses problems in the environment.
“Why do we care about ants being outcompeted,” said Althoff. “Well, native ants are friends of soil health, pest control and pollination.”
They also play an important role in healthy environments. Many herbaceous plants’ seeds have a structure called an eliasome that attracts certain ants, according to the U.S. Forest Service. Those ant species carry the seeds away from the mother plant, ensuring proper dispersal.
Researchers have shown substantial decreases in seed dispersal where Asian needle ants have invaded forest areas, so this invasive species could have long-term negative effects on the forest understory, said Althoff.
In addition to bullying other ants, the Asian needle ant is nasty to humans. Its sting injects a venom that could be harmful to people who are allergic to the stings of other insects. In rare cases, its sting can cause life-threatening anaphylaxis.
Althoff said those with allergies should carry an epi-pen if they are planning a trip to the woods and should avoid moving firewood. Firewood should also be stored off the ground to ensure it stays dry.
If individuals spot what they suspect is an Asian needle ant, they should send a quality photo to their local MU Extension center or contact Althoff at emilyalthoff@missouri.edu.
Don’t panic
Because of its presence in Arkansas and proximity to southern Missouri woodlands, the Asian needle ant likely will make it to Missouri. If it does, use management practices recommended by the MU Extension and other state agencies to treat homes and public spaces. However, it should still be noted that the ant does not come inside unless brought in, for example, on firewood.
Most importantly, do not panic, said Althoff.
“We do not need panic about killer insects here,” she said. “The damage caused by these stings to people likely would be like that of a bee or wasp sting. It is important for people to know if they are allergic to such stings and take proper precautions.”
If you could be at risk, make sure to observe what the ant looks like, especially on people and property.
