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Occurrences on Heinrich-Heine-Straße and Bauhof – city reacts with immediate measures
Riedstadt. The invasive ant species Tapinoma magnum , also known as the large glandular ant , has now been detected in Riedstadt . According to the city administration, the current infestation is limited to a section of Heinrich-Heine-Straße (house numbers 13–21) and the southern area of the municipal depot .
Striking discovery during site inspection
In early July, employees of the environmental department noticed an unusually high number of ants during a site visit as part of the "From Gray to Green" varying body sizes (2–4 mm), completely black coloration , and a pungent odor of acetone or gasoline indicated the invasive species Tapinoma magnum . An expert report confirmed the suspicion shortly thereafter.
Introduction likely via Mediterranean potted plants
According to the expert, the ant species was likely introduced via planters containing Mediterranean plants such as olive trees, citrus trees, or cherry laurel . From there, the insects apparently spread to the tree-lined green strip along the road . The infestation at the municipal depot is also likely related to a planter previously placed on Heinrich-Heine-Straße.
Immediate relocation and closure of the construction site
relocated to Oppenheimer Straße Removing the excavated soil is currently out of the question, as this would pose a risk of the ants spreading .
Danger from supercolonies – control measures initiated
Tapinoma magnum is known for forming so-called supercolonies with millions of worker wasps and multiple interconnected nests. According to experts, it is currently still possible to contain the spread in Riedstadt. The city of Riedstadt has therefore announced that will soon commission a specialist company to control the population.
It is important to use them in a targeted manner so that native ant species , which also act as natural ant predators of the invasive species, are not harmed .
Appeal to the public: Do not dispose of green waste in nature
In this context, the city points out the danger posed by the improper disposal of green waste, plant remains, and excavated soil . These materials must be disposed of in the open countryside may contain unnoticed ant queens or nests and thus contribute to their unwanted spread .
(Riedstadt - Red/PSR)
Featured image: Worker bees of Tapinoma magnum at a gel bait. Photo: Dr. Martin Felke
