Mediterranean Ant Species Expands Across Germany, Threatens Infrastructure

Tapinoma magnum supercolonies are causing power outages, playground closures, and structural damage, with experts and officials meeting to address containment strategies.

Tapinoma magnum, a Mediterranean ant species, has rapidly spread across Germany, now reaching northern cities like Köln and Hannover.
The ants form destructive supercolonies with millions of individuals, disrupting infrastructure and causing power and internet outages in affected areas.
Local disruptions include the closure of a playground in Kehl and infestations in schools, with damage reported to buildings and public facilities.
Scientists and political leaders convened in Offenburg on April 11, 2025, for the first time to develop coordinated containment and mitigation efforts.
Despite its damaging impact, the species is not officially classified as invasive, complicating eradication and funding for control measures.