The Invasive Ant, Tapinoma Magnum In Western Switzerland

Tapinoma magnum (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) is an ant of Mediterranean origin that is considered an invasive species in central and northern Europe. It is now present in Switzerland, where it was first observed in the canton of Vaud in 2012. Tapinoma magnum colonizes urban and suburban zones, including residential neighborhoods, private gardens, cemeteries, parking lots and fallow land. They may even colonize homes. They build their nests in the ground and form strongly polygynous, unicolonial societies. In Cully, the colonized zone covers more than two hectares. In this zone, the density of workers is so high that human outdoor activities are disturbed. In 2018-21, research pertaining to the colony’s eradication was undertaken by several individuals. The results of their concerted efforts are presented and discussed in this article.