Fire ant invasion in Sicily: Alarm bells ring as invasive species surfaces

Last Updated: September 11, 2023

The fire ant, one of the most invasive species in the world, has finally arrived in Italy. 88 nests have been identified in Sicily, near Syracuse, marking the first official sighting in Europe. The alarm comes from a study published in Current Biology, led by the Spanish Institute of Evolutionary Biology, with collaboration from the University of Parma and the University of Catania. The fire ant, also known as the warrior ant, can spread rapidly in Italy and across the continent, causing significant impacts on ecosystems, agriculture, and human health. The ants’ main damage to humans involves electrical and communication equipment, as well as agriculture. They also have an important impact on natural ecosystems, decreasing the diversity of invertebrates and small vertebrates. Additionally, their venom and large colonies can have an impact on young, weak, or sick animals. The fire ant gets its name from its painful stings, which can also cause severe allergic reactions. While originally from South America, the species has spread rapidly, aided by human activities such as maritime trade and the transportation of plant products. Australia, China, the Caribbean, Mexico, and the United States have been colonized by the fire ant in less than a century. After analyzing DNA, researchers believe that the population in Italy likely originated from the United States or China. The study suggests that about 7% of the European continent and 50% of European cities have suitable conditions for the spread of the fire ant. Coastal cities are particularly vulnerable due to their role in trade and interconnectedness. With climate change, the suitable areas for the ants are expected to increase significantly. Efforts to stop the invasion are already underway, with the Sicilian region planning eradication and monitoring measures. Citizen participation in reporting possible sightings of the fire ant could be crucial in covering a larger area.