Beware the Return: UGA Researchers Alert to the Dangerous Resurgence of the Asian Needle Ant

GEORGIA (WRBL) — University of Georgia researchers are issuing a warning to residents in the Southeastern United States about the resurgence of an invasive ant species that poses significant risks.

The Asian needle ant, scientifically known as Brachyponera chinensis, may measure only 3/16 of an inch in length, but it can lead to serious problems, particularly for individuals allergic to ant and bee stings.

According to the USDA, the Asian needle ant is a stinging invasive species that demands attention. The ant was first discovered in Georgia during the 1930s. Research into this species began nearly two decades ago, and since then, it has spread extensively along the East Coast. The threat it poses becomes more pronounced as temperatures rise and outdoor activities increase.

Dan Suiter, an Orkin Distinguished Professor of Urban Entomology at the University of Georgia, explained the potential dangers: “There are likely individuals in Georgia and across the Southeast who have been stung, ended up in the hospital, and remained unaware of what caused their distress. The ant is diminutive, just 3/16 of an inch, and while gardening, you might get stung. Ten minutes later, you’re in distress and find yourself in the hospital.”

“There are probably people in Georgia and throughout the Southeast who have been stung, wound up in the hospital, didn’t know what happened to them,” said Dan Suiter, an Orkin Distinguished Professor of Urban Entomology at UGA. “Because, again, the ant is tiny, little 3/16 of an inch thing, and you’re working in the garden, you get stung and ten minutes later you’re in distress and you wind up in the hospital.”

Asian needle ants typically appear in old, hardwood habitats, like big oak trees, leaf litter, dead logs, firewood and tree bark. Researchers say they can also appear under rocks, stones and areas with high moisture.

Unlike other types of ants, the Asian needle ant does not build mounds or establish foraging trails (lines of ants you can see).

While the needle ants aren’t aggressive, their stings can be life-threatening.

“If you or somebody in your family suffers from anaphylaxis, it’s something that you should know, whether it’s on your property or not. Because when you’re out gardening, that’s when you’re probably most likely to come in contact with that ant – is in the summertime when we’re out. And that’s the time when the ant is most active.” Suiter says.

University of Georgia officials say that identification of these ants is critical. Individuals can send a picture or a specimen to a local UGA extension office, whose agents can further help with identification.