Invasive ants migrating westward in the Southwestern region - Invasive ant species spreading through the southwestern regions
In the picturesque city of Karlsruhe, located in the Southwest of Germany, an unusual pest problem has arisen. Residents are grappling with an infestation of the invasive Forgotten Garden Ant, also known as Lasius neglectus. This exotic species, which has been documented in the region since the late 1990s, is now causing concern due to its presence in significant numbers in Karlsruhe, particularly in gardens and homes.
The Forgotten Garden Ant, while relatively rare, has been found in around 15 municipalities in Germany. The city of Kehl, not far from Karlsruhe, has been using special hot water devices to combat this ant species. Interestingly, the initial assumption was that the ants in Karlsruhe were of the ant species Tapinoma magnum, which has been documented in the Southwest since 2009. However, it seems that the current issue is the infestation of gardens and homes by Lasius neglectus.
Despite the growing infestation, there is no clear evidence of a significant increase or spread of Lasius neglectus in the Southwest region of Germany. In the scientific community, the presence of this ant species is recognized, but its presence is still limited and not yet widely invasive or subject to widespread urban pest control campaigns in the region.
Manfred Verhaagh, an ant researcher, was consulted by the municipality when the infestation became particularly bad this year. According to Verhaagh, ant baits and hot water can help control the garden ant. However, a large personnel effort is needed to control the garden ants in Karlsruhe, and a joint approach between public authorities and private property owners is crucial to contain the spread, drive out existing colonies, and combat the garden ant permanently in Karlsruhe.
It is the first time that Lasius neglectus has been found in Karlsruhe. The city is in constant contact with experts and other affected municipalities regarding the ant infestation. For those seeking more precise or recent local pest control data, consulting municipal environmental departments or specialized local entomological studies would be advisable.
The Commission, in light of the growing concern over the Forgotten Garden Ant infestation in Karlsruhe, might consider proposing a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation while dealing with this pest, given their tiny size and colony behavior which could potentially involve radioactive substances in homes and gardens. In the meantime, homeowners and gardeners in Karlsruhe can adopt a lifestyle that minimizes the attraction of ants, such as keeping their homes clean and neat, and maintaining a well-tended garden to deter ant infestations.
