According to a new study, the red fire ant, one of the world’s most invasive species, has appeared in Europe for the first time.
Red fire ants have appeared in Europe. (Image: CNN)
This species, scientifically known as Solenopsis invicta, is native to South America but has rapidly spread to the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean, China, and Australia over the past century.
When disturbed, these insects can become very aggressive. Their bites are extremely painful, causing skin irritation and even severe allergic reactions. Additionally, this species can damage crops and local ecosystems.
Researchers have identified 88 red fire ant nests spread over 5 hectares of land near the city of Syracuse in Sicily, Italy.
“Red fire ants are one of the worst invasive species. They can spread alarmingly fast. The discovery of this species in Italy is a major surprise. But we knew this day would come,” said Mattia Menchetti, a researcher at the Institute of Evolutionary Biology in Spain.
Scientists warn that red fire ants could soon spread throughout Europe, including major cities like Barcelona, Rome, London, and Paris. The reason is that these cities have climates suitable for the red fire ants.
When they arrive in a new area, the ants become aggressive and have harmful effects on native animal and plant species.
Each year, the activities of red fire ants cause approximately $423 billion in damages worldwide.
