What to Know About Asian Needle Ants and Their Potentially Dangerous Sting
Officials say the invasive insects can cause intense pain, anaphylaxis and ecological damage as sightings continue to rise.
- The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that invasive Asian needle ants have spread to at least 20 states, with the species present in the United States since the 1930s.
- Unlike fire ants, these ants are 'stealthier' and do not build visible mounds, instead preferring to nest in concealed spaces like rotting wood and mulch.
- Venomous stings from the ants can trigger anaphylaxis, which The Mayo Clinic describes as a 'severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction' causing 'intense pain' for several hours.
- The USDA advises removing rotting wood and moist debris to minimize habitats, while wearing gloves when gardening helps prevent stings and immediate medical attention is required for severe reactions.
- Entomologist Dan Suiter with the University of Georgia extension service explained that the ants 'out-compete' native species for food, potentially driving them to 'local extinction' with long-term negative forest effects.
18 Articles
18 Articles
Dangerous needle ant from Asia spreads in the US – warnings in 20 states. Stitches cause severe pain and can cause severe allergies.
abc10 Sacramento
What to know about Asian needle ants and their potentially dangerous sting
Experts warn Asian needle ant stings in the Southeast can trigger severe allergic reactions, including potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis.
Warning as venomous insect imported from China invades multiple US states
They are hard to identify from looks alone The US is experiencing a venomous ant outbreak with warnings issued across multiple states. Asian needle ants, native to China, were first reported in the United States over 90 years ago, likely through international trade. However, officials say they’ve now spread to at least 20 states, reported to be: Massachusetts, Wisconsin, Florida, Georgia, Ohio, New York, Virginia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas,…
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