Invasive ant threat: Germany battles with Tapinoma magnum spread
Aggressive ants of the Tapinoma magnum species are spreading in Germany, destroying sidewalks, invading homes, and paralysing the internet.
The Tapinoma magnum ant, which originates from the Mediterranean region, is spreading in Baden-Württemberg, Rhineland-Palatinate, as well as in Cologne and Hanover, threatening buildings and technical infrastructure, scientists reported.
In the city of Kehl, bordering Baden, these aggressive creatures have already caused power and internet outages. Supercolonies consist of hundreds of thousands to millions of ants, warns Manfred Verhaagh from the Natural History Museum in Karlsruhe. "We will not be able to eliminate them," he adds.
Experts from the southwestern part of the country and authorities are collaborating for the first time on a research project aimed at stopping the spread of the insects. Some local authorities are resorting to hot water devices.
Authorities have made it clear that Tapinoma magnum has not yet been officially listed as an invasive species. However, Baden-Württemberg's Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection, Andre Baumann, said that for him, this species is a pest, even if it is not legally designated as such.
"They are everywhere"
The struggle is considered difficult because, at first glance, the black Tapinoma magnum looks like a native ant. According to experts, these insects cannot transmit diseases. However, it can't be ruled out that they may cause allergies in people. Tapinoma magnum smells like rancid butter.
The presence of Tapinoma ants can be recognized by numerous mounds on curbs and sidewalks. "They are everywhere," summarized Gregor Koschate from the city council of Kehl.
