Invasive, Stinging Ants Spread Across US South, East

Scientists warn that record numbers of humans could come in contact with a possibly dangerous type of ant. Its scientific name is Brachyponera chinensis. But it is more commonly known as the Asian needle ant. It was first discovered in the US in 1932. The invasive species has slowly spread across the country in the past 100 years. 

"They're pretty widespread on the East Coast," Daniel Suiter told USA Today. "If you live in an area which is dominated by hardwood trees, there’s a good chance there are Asian needle ants underfoot.” Suiter is a University of Georgia entomology professor.

The ant has been seen as far north as Connecticut. It has also been seen as far south and west as Florida and Texas. The stinging insect's scientific name translates to “short, wicked ant from China.” But it is also found in Japan and North and South Korea. Asian needle ants are only 0.2 inches long. And they can be hard to tell from other small black ants. That is, until they sting you.

"Imagine somebody (sticking) a needle directly into your flesh," Benoit Guénard told USA Today. "It's a very sharp, acute pain but it's quite local." Guénard is an entomologist at the University of Hong Kong. 

Unlike other ants, their stings can cause anaphylaxis. That's the same type of allergic reaction that some people suffer when stung by a bee. People who aren't treated for these stings can die. The US Forest Service (USFS) recommends that hikers, campers, gardeners, and anyone else who gets close to Asian needle ants be aware of the risks. The USFS urges anyone who gets stung by one to seek immediate medical attention.

Reflect: Do you know of any invasive species in your area? How have they affected your local ecosystem?

Gif of crawling ants from GIPHY.