Tapinoma magnum

The Tapinoma ant (also known as the large glandular ant) is a Mediterranean ant species that is now spreading in Germany and in Rodgau. This ant species causes damage to infrastructure and in gardens, as it forms mega-colonies with several queens. Consequently, controlling this species is difficult but important. In public areas, the council is responsible for control measures, whilst in private areas, the property owner is responsible.


Appearance

Tapinoma magnum is entirely black in colour, with no brownish or reddish tinge to its body. Contrary to its name (magnum = large), the workers that are usually seen are not particularly large. They are between about 2–5 mm long and are found together in a wide range of sizes. The largest ant is often twice the size of the smallest.

It is not easy to distinguish it from other ant species. To avoid confusing Tapinoma magnum with beneficial ant species, which are strictly protected, one can

  • To identify the species, use the reporting portal of the Hessian State Office for Nature Conservation, Environment and Geology (HLNUG)
  • consulting a pest control expert can help


Behaviour & Damage

Behaviour

Their behaviour differs from that of other ant species.

  • Unusually wide ant trails
  • Extreme crowd behaviour
  • There are often very large tracks of sand at the entrances to the nests
  • They are found mainly in built-up areas beneath floor coverings that heat up quickly, such as paving stones, cracks in walls or in the ground


Damage

Unfortunately, this species of ant causes damage to infrastructure and in gardens.

  • Undermining of paths, paved areas and buildings by tunnelling works
  • Pests entering and nesting in electrical boxes or telecommunications distribution boxes may, in some cases, lead to short circuits, power cuts or internet outages
  • Nesting in insulation, insulating layers or directly in cracks in walls
  • Displacement of native ants 


Questions & Answers about Tapinoma magnum

  • How can you recognise Tapinoma magnum?

    In addition to the descriptions under ‘Appearance and Behaviour’ (see above), Tapinoma magnum can be identified by a chemical odour released when the ant is crushed.
    However, this ant species is difficult to distinguish from other species. In case of doubt, to identify the species use reporting portal of the Hessian State Office for Nature Conservation, Environment and Geology (HLNUG) should be used to determine the species, through which you will receive feedback as to whether it is a Tapinoma magnum colony.
    Alternatively, an expert or pest control specialist can be consulted.

  • Are Tapinoma magnum ants dangerous to humans?

    Tapinoma magnum does not currently pose a health risk to humans. Repeated bites may cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.

    Due to their large colonies, which can contain up to several hundred queens and more than a million workers, they can cause damage to infrastructure, foundations, cables and even service pipes, amongst other things.

  • Are pets at risk?

    Due to the supercolonies and their aggressive behaviour when threatened, multiple bites can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in animals.

  • How can its spread be prevented or tackled?

    Ants have no natural enemies. Ways to control Tapinoma magnum include:

    Preventing the introduction of pests as a matter of principle

    • It is currently believed that the ants are being introduced via Mediterranean plants, such as oleander or olive trees in pots. Check the root balls carefully for any sign of ant infestation before planting them in your garden

    Removal of existing stocks
    If stocks are suspected,

    • Please report any sightings in public areas to the Tapinoma magnum information centre .
    • On private property, it is advisable to call in a professional pest control operator to identify the species and, if necessary, eliminate it

  • How can the destruction of beneficial ants be prevented?

    Not all black ants are Tapinoma magnum. A definitive identification can often only be made by experts. Many ant species are protected.

    • For public spaces, the Information Centre on Tapinoma magnum must be notified
    • In the case of private properties, it is advisable to hire a professional pest control operator to identify the species


Identification of the species

If you are unsure about the species and want to make sure you are not endangering a protected species, you can find further information on the website of the Hessian State Office for Nature Conservation, Environment and Geology (HLNUG) and carry out an initial assessment there using a three-step process.

  1. Investigate the suspicion
  2. If the suspicion is confirmed, submit a report
  3. Wait for a reply

You will then receive an assessment from the HLNUG.


Notice

If you notice a large gathering of conspicuous ants on your property or in a public area, you should report this to the city, specifically to the Tapinoma magnum information centre, by email.

This enables the city council to keep a central record of the deposits within the city limits.

Useful information

  • Location
  • Photo of the site where it was found and its distribution
  • Description of the occurrence
  • How long the animals have been observed
  • Contact details for enquiries

Please send your enquiries by email to tapinoma@rodgau.de. You will receive a reply within a few days.