European Fire Ant

Description

Belonging to the large order Hymenoptera, myrmica rubra are a widespread ant species commonly known as the "fire ant" or "red ant." The species is known for its aggressive nature and the threat it poses against both humans and animals. Viewed as a nuisance, they are often treated with pesticides and eradicated from areas of high population.

Habitat

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Native to Europe, the ant species is found in temperate or wet regions, often in areas disturbed by humans. They reside in meadows, forests, and various grassy or disturbed lands. They nest in rotting wood or bark, tufts of grass or can be found in the soil or under rocks when in regions of high precipitation where rainwater is stored in the ground.

Located on 5 continents, it is one of the most widespread ant species within the Myrmicinae subfamily. It's range spans from Portugal to Siberia and from Northern Greece to the Forest-Tundra. Ants are commonly spread by human activity causing the species to be invasive in many regions including North America. [1]

References

[1] ER17201204_Czekes_etal.pdf. (n.d.). .

[2] antmaps.org. (n.d.). . https://antmaps.org/?mode=species&species=Myrmica.rubra.

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