This is likely the type of ant seen in the garden recently. It was skinny and about 6 mm long. People living in the southern part of the USA have heard and probably experienced the fire ants (Solenopsis invicta) and the Argentine ants (Linepithema humile). Those two ants cause serious economical, medical and ecological problems. Unfortunately a new invasive ant is spreading and people will have to learn how to recognize and handle it. Its scientific name is Pachycondyla chinensis, also called the Asian needle ant. Although not agressive, it has a stinger and knows how to use it.
Until now, Pachycondyla chinensis were found in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Connecticut and New York. Contact us at NorchesterGardenClub@gmail.com if you suspect these in the Houston area.
Butterfly Garden Chairman
Click for pictures of this species here
Invasive Asian needle ants thriving, spreading in U.S.
March 4, 2013 | Author: Freelance Writer Mary Bates, Ph.D.
Asian needle ants look innocent but they pack a painful sting. There's a new invasive ant species on the block and it could mean big trouble for people and the environment. The Asian needle ant has been in the U.S. since the 1930s, but their population has exploded in the past 8 years. These stinging ants are spreading rapidly and displacing another invasive ant species, the aggressive Argentine ant, in forests and backyards across the country.
Until now, Pachycondyla chinensis were found in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Connecticut and New York. Contact us at NorchesterGardenClub@gmail.com if you suspect these in the Houston area.
Butterfly Garden Chairman
Click for pictures of this species here
Invasive Asian needle ants thriving, spreading in U.S.
March 4, 2013 | Author: Freelance Writer Mary Bates, Ph.D.
Asian needle ants look innocent but they pack a painful sting. There's a new invasive ant species on the block and it could mean big trouble for people and the environment. The Asian needle ant has been in the U.S. since the 1930s, but their population has exploded in the past 8 years. These stinging ants are spreading rapidly and displacing another invasive ant species, the aggressive Argentine ant, in forests and backyards across the country.
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