Overview

• Researchers from the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology and collaborators sequenced genomic data from more than 4,000 museum specimens spanning over 100 species.
• Population models traced roughly 65 colonization events shaping Fiji’s ant fauna, from ancient natural arrivals to recent human-mediated introductions.
• Declines in native species began after initial human settlement about 3,000 years ago and intensified over the past 300 years with European contact, global trade, and modern agriculture.
• Endemic ants, often confined to intact upland forests, are shrinking, while widespread Pacific species and recent invaders are thriving in disturbed lowland habitats.
• The authors urge investment in biodiversity collections and expansion of real-time monitoring programs such as OKEON to guide conservation responses.