Invasive African Ant, Among World's Most Harmful, Discovered in Israel

While the ant poses no direct health risk to humans, it threatens local ecosystems and agriculture. The species reproduces rapidly, forms cooperative nest networks with multiple queens, displaces native ants, and preys on small vertebrates. It also fosters plant pests like aphids, which can cause significant agricultural damage. Its spread is typically facilitated by the transport of contaminated soil, seedlings, and potted plants.

In response, the Ministry of Environmental Protection, the Haifa Municipality, the Nature and Parks Authority, and Tel Aviv University have launched a joint effort to map, monitor, and control the infestation. Dr. Shay Reichler, Director of the Pest Control Department at the Ministry of Environmental Protection, emphasized the need for swift action to prevent the species from becoming entrenched. Authorities are currently testing four different control methods and urge residents to report sightings with photos and locations, while avoiding the movement of soil, plants, or garden waste from suspected areas.