Invasive Fire Ants Spread in Israel, Posing Painful Sting

A species of invasive ant, known as the lesser fire ant, has become established in Israel over the past two decades, causing discomfort to humans and animals with its venomous sting. The ant, likely introduced through maritime trade from South America, is difficult to detect until it has already spread.

Unlike native ants that primarily bite, the lesser fire ant delivers a sting that injects venom, resulting in a burning sensation that gives the species its name. While considered highly painful, Israeli populations of this ant are not known to cause life-threatening allergic reactions, unlike some other fire ant species.

The arid climate of Israel is not naturally conducive to the lesser fire ant, which originates from the humid tropics of the Amazon. However, human activities such as irrigation of agricultural fields, lawns, gardens, and parks create the necessary moist conditions for the ants to survive and thrive.

Scientists are particularly interested in the ant's reproductive capabilities, specifically its ability to reproduce asexually through cloning. New queens are genetically identical to their mothers, and males are clones of their fathers, achieved by removing the mother's DNA from the egg destined to become a male.

This report follows previous news about processionary caterpillars found in Israeli pine forests, which can cause skin and eye irritation during their active spring season.