COLUMBIA, Mo. – Missourians should be on the lookout for the Asian needle ant during its population peak in July and August, says Emily Althoff, urban entomologist for University of Missouri and Lincoln University Extension.

Confirmed in 18 states

Eighteen states have confirmed the presence of the insect: Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, Wisconsin and Washington. You can follow records of the species on the Antmaps website.

This environmental disruptor is drawn to moist, shady spots, leaf litter and dead logs, including firewood. It is hard to spot because of its small size, about 0.2 inches in length, says Althoff. Unlike many other insects, it doesn’t leave mounds or foraging trails.

Little ant, big bully

Asian needle ant is the bully of the ant family, taking over the homes of other ants, eating their food and even eating other ants. This poses problems in the environment, says Althoff.

“Why do we care about ants being outcompeted?” she asks. “Well, native ants are friends of soil health, pest control and pollination.” They also play an important role in healthy environments. Many herbaceous plants’ seeds have a structure called an eliasome that attracts certain ants, according to the U.S. Forest Service. Those ant species carry the seeds away from the mother plant, ensuring proper dispersal. Researchers have shown substantial decreases in seed dispersal where Asian needle ants have invaded forest areas, so this invasive species could have long-term negative effects on forest understory, says Althoff.

In addition to bullying other ants, the Asian needle ant is nasty to humans. Its sting injects a venom that could be harmful to people who are allergic to the stings of other insects. In rare cases, its sting can cause life-threatening anaphylaxis. Althoff suggests that those with allergies carry an epi pen if they are planning a trip to the woods. Also, avoid moving firewood and store firewood off the ground to ensure it stays dry.

If you think you spot an Asian needle ant, send a good-quality photo to your local MU Extension center or contact Althoff at emilyalthoff@missouri.edu

Don’t panic

Because of its presence in Arkansas and proximity to southern Missouri woodlands, the Asian needle ant likely will make it to Missouri. If it does, use management practices recommended by MU Extension and other state agencies to treat homes and public spaces. However, it should be noted that the ant does not come inside unless brought in (for example, on firewood).

Most importantly, don’t panic, says Althoff. “We do not need to panic about killer insects here,” she says. “The damage caused by these stings to people likely would be like that of a bee or wasp sting. It is important for people to know if they are allergic to such stings and take proper precautions.” If you could be at risk, make sure that you know what the ant looks like and if it is on your property.

Photo

Asian needle ant (Brachyponera chinensis). Missourians should be on the lookout for the Asian needle ant during its population peak in July and August, says Emily Althoff, urban entomologist for University of Missouri and Lincoln University Extension. Photo by April Nobile via Antweb.org (specimen CASENT0104738). Shared under a Creative Commons license (CC-BY-4.0).