Tapinoma ant is spreading - how can it be recognized?

Tapinoma magnum and two other Tapinoma species that form super-colonies "are mainly spread via the import of Mediterranean potted plants - typically via garden centers - but also by vegetable growers," Seifert said. "As more and more Mediterranean plants are being planted in gardens or restaurants like to decorate their outdoor areas with olive trees, a wide spread is also to be expected in Saxony."

Suspicious ants are in the garden or in the house - what should I do?

The natural history museums in Stuttgart and Karlsruhe have launched a Tapinoma research project and are providing information about the ant. There are currently many inquiries from members of the public about the ant species, which originates from the Mediterranean region, said project coordinator Amelie Höcherl.

The expert advises people to visit the Internet entry of the Tapinoma project if they suspect ants. It is not easy for a layperson to identify. There are over 120 species of ants in Germany, said Höcherl. It is also possible to send a photo to the Tapinoma project. The all-clear is then often given.

How can you recognize the glandular ant?

In contrast to what the scientific name Tapinoma magnum suggests, the black ant is not very large, usually measuring just two to four millimetres. However, considerable differences in size are characteristic. Some workers are twice as big as others, Höcherl reported. "The queens usually stay in the nest." The Tapinoma magnum emits an intense scent when it feels threatened.

The ant species travels on sometimes wide ant trails. Conspicuous mounds of sand and earth form around nest entrances. If they are disturbed, many animals can be seen at once.

How can the introduced ant be combated?

According to experts, the insects are difficult to control. This is because their super-colonies have hundreds of thousands to millions of animals. The Tapinoma Project advises private individuals not to use insecticides - it is usually not possible to permanently eliminate entire colonies. In addition, insecticides used indoors could be harmful to human health.

The researchers recommend informing the local authority in the event of an infestation. Municipalities such as Kehl are already using hot water devices to combat the ant species in certain areas. In the Swiss metropolis of Zurich, a new colony was eliminated using various insecticides.

The research project also advises against demonizing ants as pests in general. "Because without ants, many of our ecosystems would change dramatically," it says on the website.

• Tapinoma project with email address for photos

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