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Monomorium pharaonis. (1) Head of worker from Luzon, Philippines; (2) lateral view of the same worker; (3) dorsal view of the same worker; (4) worker foraging indoors on gouda cheese in Lower Austria, Austria (1-3 by D.M. Sorger, copyright NHMW Image Database & www.antbase.net; 4 by B.C. Schlick-Steiner & F.M. Steiner).
Source publication
The pharaoh ant, Monomorium pharaonis (LINNAEUS, 1758), has long been considered the most ubiquitous house ant in the world. Monomorium pharaonis is particularly notorious as a pest in hospitals, where it is known as a vector for disease. I compiled and mapped specimen records of M. pharaonis from > 1200 sites to document its known worldwide distri...
Citations
... The Pharaoh ant (Monomorium pharonis) is of interest due to its status as a major indoor nuisance pest, adapted to artificial structures, and distributed across the world [32]. It was initially described as a cause of respiratory allergies in patients living in infested homes [33]. ...
Purpose of Review
Allergy diagnostics and immunotherapeutics in Asia heavily rely on imported products from Western countries, raising concerns about the accuracy and efficacy of these products for the management of Asian allergy patients.
Recent Findings
Recent advancements in allergen research have led to the identification and characterization of novel allergens from indigenous Korean species. While some allergens share homology with well-known allergens, others lack counterparts in imported allergen extracts.
Summary
Classifying regional allergens in Asia into three categories based on their cross-reactivity with imported allergens offers valuable insights. Highly cross-reactive allergens, such as oak allergens Que m 1 from Quercus mongolica and Que ac 1 from Q. acutissima, can be effectively substituted with the imported allergens. Allergens with partial cross-reactivity, like the Asian needle ant allergen Pac c 3 (Antigen 5), permit limited diagnostic value by the currently available products. Unique allergens, including the Japanese hop allergen Hum j 6 (pectin methylesterase inhibitor) and the silkworm pupa allergen Bomb m 4 (30 kDa hemolymph lipoprotein) lack alternatives in the available product list. Greater attention is needed, particularly for species listed as ecologically invasive in Western regions. Additionally, allergens from domestic fruits and vegetables causing pollen food allergy syndrome require characterization for the development of improved diagnostics.
... More recently, Khachonpisitsak et al. (2020) provided an updated checklist, recording 529 valid species and subspecies within 109 genera across ten subfamilies of Thai ant fauna. Of these, 81 species are native to Thailand, with 20 species endemic and 14 exotic (Deyrup et al., 2000;Wetterer and Vargo, 2003;Heterick and Shattuck, 2011;Vonshak and Ionescu-Hirsch, 2009;Wetterer, 2009;2010a;2010b;2010c;Yamane and Jaitrong 2011;Wetterer 2013;Wetterer et al., 2015). Additionally, more than 200 species remain unidentified, including several potentially new to science (Khachonpisitsak et al., 2020). ...
Thailand, primarily an agricultural nation, faces significant crop yield losses due to various pests. Members of the Dorylus Fabricius, 1793 ant genus are significant pests of both vegetables and cash crops. Despite extensive research on ant taxonomy in Thailand, a comprehensive understanding of ant diversity remains incomplete, with many species are undiscovered. This study examines the diversity of subterranean Dorylus ants in the agricultural regions of Northern Thailand, predominantly occupied by hill tribes. Ant surveys were carried out in organic vegetable farms located in the Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son provinces of Northern Thailand, by using palm oil baits in sieve buckets. The worker ants were identified through their morphological and molecular characters derived from the cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) region of the mitochondrial gene. Our findings revealed that two species, Dorylus laevigatus and D. orientalis, are major Dorylus ants that infest Brassicaceae and Fabaceae vegetable crops. This is the first record of these species infesting Chinese radish (Raphanus sativus L.). In addition, we present the first documentation of D. laevigatus in Pak choi (Brassica chinensis L.), and peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) in Thailand. These pests burrow into the subterranean parts of crop roots, resulting in reduced growth yield. The damage manifests as an unhealthy appearance in the above-ground parts of the crops.
... Despite originating from this region, it has been successfully introduced and established in various parts of the world, including Asia, Australia, Europe, North, Central, and South America. It has also managed to colonize several islands in the Indian Ocean (e.g., Madagascar) and the Pacific Ocean (including New Zealand, the Hawaiian Islands, and the Galapagos archipelago) (Wetterer, 2010;CABI, 2022c). It was first reported from Beijing in 1970 (Yang and Wei, 1983). ...
... It was first reported from Beijing in 1970 (Yang and Wei, 1983). Subsequently, it expanded its range to provinces such as Hebei, Beijing, Yunnan, Jiangsu, Hainan, Guangxi, Guangdong, Henan, Jilin, Ningxia, Sichuan, Xinjiang, Tibet, and Gansu ( Fig. 1b) (Wetterer, 2010;Gao et al., 2020;Wang et al., 2020c;CABI, 2022c;Ant-China, 2023d). ...
... Historically, this species has demonstrated an exceptional capacity for global expansion. It was introduced through trade and commerce into numerous major cities, particularly in urban areas of commercial importance, such as hotels, large apartment buildings, and grocery stores (Wetterer, 2010). Due to its capability to serve as a carrier for certain bacterial human pathogens, its presence in healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, raises significant concerns regarding potential increases in infection rates (Kim et al., 2005). ...
The invasion of exotic ant species in China presents significant challenges to ecosystems, agriculture, and the economy. This paper provides an in-depth analysis of China's ongoing battle with exotic ants, examining the factors contributing to their introduction and establishment. It explores the responses implemented by the decision makers, including capacity building, establishment of research institutions, and legislative measures. Limitations and gaps in the current strategies are identified, highlighting the need for regional collaboration, increased awareness, and strengthened early detection and response systems. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the importance of conducting research to understand various exotic ant species' ecological and economic impacts , facilitating the development of targeted and effective management approaches. By adopting a comprehensive and coordinated approach, China can mitigate the impacts of ant invasions and safeguard its biodiversity, agriculture, and economy. This analysis underscores the significance of collective efforts in addressing the ongoing battle with exotic ants and preserving the well-being of ecosystems, economies, and the society.
... This species is generally found in tropical and temperate anthropized habitats (Bolton 1987). Monomorium pharaonis is possibly native to the Asian tropics since most records are found in this region, and these belong not only from human-populated areas but also from natural preserves (Wetterer 2010b). In Ecuador this species has been found at Yasuní National Park, in the Amazon region, but also in major cities, such as Quito. ...
We present an updated list of introduced ants to continental Ecuador, and compile records of occurrence , as well as map the distribution of 15 exotic species. We analyzed specimens in entomological collections and data from AntWeb, GBIF and iNaturalist. Among these, we add two new records for the country: Cardiocondyla mauritanica Forel, 1980 and Pheidole megacephala (Fabricius, 1793). The former is also the first record for South America, while the finding of the latter shows how little we know about introduced tramp ants. In addition, we add site records for nine species:
... latinodes, M. pharaonis and N. bourbonica). Of those, at least M. pharaonis is very closely linked to homes and buildings (Wetterer, 2010). This suggests that this species is unlikely to expand in EOO across the island and may eventually disappear. ...
... In view of this, M. pharaonis and other species closely linked to settlements may be hypothesized to be less of an ecological threat to native habitats than other ants. Unfortunately, though, M. pharaonis has potential to cause significant damage through other means, for example as a vector of human illnesses (Wetterer, 2010). For this reason, non-native ants confined to settlements should still be considered high-risk. ...
Aims
Colonization by non‐native ants represents one of the gravest potential threats to island ecosystems. It is necessary to identify general mechanisms by which non‐native species are able to colonize and persist in order to inform future prevention and management. We studied a model‐island assemblage of 17 non‐native ant species with aim of identifying the spatial source of introductions and assessing how such a diversity of species are able to coexist.
Location
Data were collected on Ascension Island: an ideal study system for its intermediate area, compact shape, spatial heterogeneity, lack of native ant species, and availability of non‐native ant records dating back to the 1800s.
Methods
We collected over 47,000 individual ants from 73 sites using a range of baited traps and survey techniques. We combined this novel data with past occurrence records in order to determine whether human settlements have historically been the source of ant introductions and to quantify the mean rate at which species have dispersed across the island. Analysis of standardized field data revealed the extent to which ants were partitioning ecological niche space via (1) habitat separation, (2) fine‐scale resource partitioning and (3) climatic heterogeneity.
Results
Ants were radiating at a linear rate of approximately 0.5 km² per year from human settlements on this island, with the most widespread species having been introduced earliest. After accounting for incomplete colonization, we found no evidence to suggest habitat separation between species. Instead, we found significant niche separation through resource partitioning and weather‐dependent activity patterns.
Main Conclusions
Our results indicate that non‐native ants can coexist in very close proximity and are therefore capable of existing at great diversity on even small islands. It is inevitable that ant colonization will continue without increased biosecurity measures, habitat restoration around settlements and conservation of native species populations.
... Distribuție în România: specie cosmopolită, fiind semnalată din sudul României (Markó, 2009 Descriere: Monomorium pharaonis are corpul de culoare galbenă cu abdomenul închis la culoare, deși există o variabilitate în cadrul coloniei. Se distinge ușor față de M. destructor, altă specie invazivă, prin culoarea mătuită a toracelului, pețiolului și a post-pețiolului lucrătoarelor (Wetterer, 2010). ...
... Origine/distribuție nativă: probabil Asia Centrală (Wetterer, 2010) Distribuție în România: specie cosmopolită, se întâlnește în toată țara, deși există doar câteva semnalări publicate (Tăușan & Markó, 2011). ...
... For example, our models predicted high suitability in cities in southern China for the two traded invasive species, Monomorium pharaonis and Pheidole megacephala, based solely on their native distributions (outside China). These predictions were validated as these two species have already been reported to have established wild colonies in southern China (Wetterer, 2010(Wetterer, , 2012, although involvement with the pet trade is unclear from these studies). ...
Ants are traded as pets across the globe, but if introduced outside of their native ranges they could become invasive with dire environmental and economic consequences. We demonstrate how geotagged e-commerce information can be utilized for biosecurity risk assessment. We monitored online pet ant sales in China and found that 58,937 ant colonies from 209 species were sold by 206 sellers in 89 cities across the country in six months. More than a quarter of the traded species were not native to China. Trait-based analysis revealed that the most sought-after ants have higher invasive potential than less popular species. Climate-based distribution models suggest that 24.7 % of the non-native species could find suitable climatic conditions in the cities from which they were sold. If released, pet ants could interfere with urban ecosystems, rural agriculture, and spill over to threaten back-country habitats with high biodiversity. Based on our analysis we offer guidelines on wildlife trade policy and management: (1) we provide a list of potentially invasive ants sold in each Chinese city; (2) we identify the highest risk of a non-native ant introduction at the Greater Bay area of subtropical southern China; (3) we highlight the absence of within-country permitting requirements which resulted in invasive species being transported across Chinese provincial lines. Worldwide, similar wildlife trade records are only accessible to conservation practitioners cognizant of local languages and customs. We encourage grassroot web scraping of under-monitored, fast-developing economies to gather information crucial for guiding regional policy decisions.
... In Cyprus, nine species of alien ants have been identified (Salata et al., 2019). Nevertheless, the presence of Cardiocondyla mauritanica Forel, 1890, Monomorium pharaonis (Linnaeus, 1758) and Solenopsis geminata (Fabricius, 1804) on the island have been supported only by single literature records (Emery, 1909;Collingwood et al., 1997;Wetterer, 2010). In this publication, W. auropunctata is reported for the first time in Cyprus. ...
Native to the Neotropics, Wasmannia auropunctata (Roger, 1863) has been unintentionally introduced around the world, heavily impacting native ant biodiversity, societies, and economies as well as human and animal health due to its potentially dangerous stings. Herein we report on the first record of W. auropunctata in Cyprus. Specimens were collected from plant nurseries and tourist facilities in Paphos and Limassol district. Wasmannia auropunctata is believed to spread via the horticultural pathway to locations with sufficient humidity. Further research is necessary to determine the distribution and assess possible negative impacts of W. auropunctata to native biodiversity, society, the economy and human health in Cyprus.
... This explanation fits with Argentine ant and pharaoh ant ecology. Both species are highly invasive, and their competitive dominance is largely mediated by worker abundance 44,45 . In the case of a trade-off, investing in larger workers could put colony fitness at risk. ...
The reproductive division of labour is a hallmark of eusocial Hymenoptera. Females are either reproductive queens or non-reproductive workers. In ants, workers often display further task specialisation that is associated with variation in size and/or morphology. Because female polyphenism is typically under environmental control, it is thought epigenetic mechanisms (such as DNA methylation) play a central role since they mediate gene-by-environment interactions. Methylation of the growth-promoting gene epidermal growth factor receptor ( egfr ) was indeed shown to control worker size in a highly polymorphic ant. However, it remains unknown if egfr methylation could also regulate worker size in monomorphic species. By combining experimental pharmacology and molecular biology, we show that worker size is associated with egfr methylation in two monomorphic ants. Furthermore, we functionally demonstrate that EGFR signalling affects worker size. These results indicate that worker size regulation by egfr methylation has been mechanistically conserved in ants but remains unexploited in monomorphic species.
... The introduced exotic Monomorium pharaonis can readily be distinguished from the other four taxa by its having the frons of the head capsule and the entire mesosoma finely densely reticulate-punctate, and other cephalic sculpture is also present; the mandibles are longitudinally rugulose and shagreenate. This species is believed to have originated in tropical Asia but has now been documented for 225 geographic areas including very many countries (Wetterer 2010c). On a global scale, this is probably the most pestiferous Monomorium species, and it has thus attracted a voluminous literature. ...
... Monomorium pharaonis appears to have penetrated native forest or other natural environments on the mainland and on offshore islands in north-east QLD, and the author has seen several samples from these areas -WAM holdings include material from QLD's Magdelaine Cays, South West Coringa Cay, and South West Herald Island. As well as causing annoyance by scavenging foodstuffs in houses, this species can be a (mechanical) vector of disease (Wetterer 2010c). The other Monomorium introduction to Australia, namely, M. floricola, is built along the same morphological lines as M. antipodum and M. orientale, and shares the same low, bluntly triangular petiolar node. ...
This is the secod part of a 2 volume Guide to the ants of Western Australia. This volume examines the ecology and distribution of Western Australian ants.
