The invasive ant Solenopsis invicta is established in Europe

Abstract

The red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta) is classified as one of the worst invasive alien species¹ and as the fifth costliest worldwide², impacting ecosystems, agriculture and human health³. We report the establishment of S. invicta in Europe for the first time, documenting a mature population in Sicily. We use genetic analyses to assess its putative origin, as well as wind tracking and species distribution modelling to predict its potential range on the continent. We show that half of the urban areas in Europe are already suitable and that climate warming expected under current trends will favor the expansion of this invasive ant.