Ecologists have warned homeowners to be on the look-out for fire-raising Asian “super-ants” which appear to be colonising the UK.
The ant, “Lasius neglectus”, lives in colonies of more than 100 million and has set up home in areas as far apart as Yorkshire and Sussex.
In some circles referred to as the “electric ant” because it is drawn to power sockets and cables, sometimes chewing through them and sparking blackouts and fires, is a native of Turkey but it is thought to have been inadvertently imported into the UK in the soil of pot plants.
It was first identified in England in 2009, when 35,000 dead ants were discovered inside an electrical junction box at a National Trust property in Gloucestershire.
The super-ants, which live in colonies of interconnected nests that can span 50 acres, were next spotted two years ago, with sightings in London and Cambridgeshire.
There have been three infestations identified this year alone and there are fears the “electric ant” is now fully established.
Defra is so concerned that it has commissioned a report into their proliferation, and options for their control and eradication.
The super-ant looks similar to our native garden ant. The two are easily confused so the actual number of colonies may be much higher.
At just three to 6mm long, the super-ant is slightly smaller than its British cousin but it is more aggressive and is winning the fight for space and food, raising concerns that the common ant, important for the well-being of other indigenous garden visitors, will be driven out.
The super-ant’s main source of energy is a sugary liquid excreted by greenfly and other aphids. To ensure an endless supply, it “farms” the aphids, protecting them from predation and allowing their numbers to grow, which will be an extra concern for gardeners.
York University Ecologist Elva Robinson said: “We think the invasive ants have the potential to have a big impact on the native ecosystem.
“In the sites we have studied, it is clear they are excluding the native ants.
“Apart from being slightly smaller, the invasive garden ant looks a lot like our common native garden ant so they can be difficult to recognise.”
The ants thrive in temperatures as low as -5°C, making them perfectly adapted for the unpredictable British weather.
Anyone who is concerned about ants in their home or garden should contact their council or a pest control company.
If talk of these ants has left you feeling rather itchy, and, lest they should throw a spanner in your electrical works, make sure your domestic insurance is up to scratch.
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