The city is treating public areas in Eberstadt with hot water and requests that any further findings be reported
A colony of the invasive large glandular ant ( Tapinoma magnum ) has been discovered on Humboldtweg in Darmstadt-Eberstadt . The city of Darmstadt plans to treat the affected public areas with hot water as soon as possible. This ant species was already detected in the Lincoln settlement and its surrounding area last year.
The large glandular ant can form so-called supercolonies that extend across multiple properties. According to the city, the underground nests and tunnel systems can also cause damage to buildings and infrastructure.
"Following the discovery of the large glandular ant on Humboldtweg, targeted and coordinated action is required," explains Environmental Officer Michael Kolmer. Since the colonies could spread across property lines, coordination between the city and private landowners is necessary.
Public areas are treated with hot water
In the known infestation area, the city plans to treat public spaces with hot water. This method uses high temperatures to kill the ants and their nests without leaving any chemical residue.
Owners of private properties are responsible for pest control. Tenants who discover a possible infestation should first contact their landlord or property owner.
The city cites sand or soil mounds at nest entrances, wide, multi-lane ant trails, and a rapid exodus of numerous ants when disturbed as possible indicators of Tapinoma magnum . The worker ants are black and shiny, between two and five millimeters long, and can exhibit significant size variations. When crushed, they can release an intense odor reminiscent of acetone.
Suspected cases can be investigated
Anyone who discovers the ants on private property can contact the Hessian State Office for Nature Conservation, Environment and Geology (HLNUG) for identification:
HLNUG identification service for the large glandular ant
If the suspicion is confirmed, the city requests that the find also be reported voluntarily to tapinoma@darmstadt.de . This will allow for the coordination of measures on adjacent public areas, if necessary. Reporting is not mandatory.
Any findings in public areas should be reported directly to this email address. The city will then investigate the reports and take further action if necessary.
Further background information on the species' previous occurrence in Darmstadt is provided by the City of Science Darmstadt.
(EBERSTADT – RED/PSD/stip)
Featured image: Symbolic image of an ant.
