The invasion of non-native species can have devastating effects on the native species of an ecosystem. A recent study conducted by the University of Arizona has revealed yet another example of the catastrophic consequences of this phenomenon: ant wars.

The study focused on two species of ants native to the Sonoran Desert: Crematogaster sonorensis and Monomorium pharaonis. These two species have co-existed peacefully for hundreds of years, but when an invasive species of ant, Solenopsis invicta, was introduced, the balance of power shifted. The S. invicta ants are much more aggressive than the native species, and they quickly began to take over the environment.

The researchers found that the native species are unable to compete with the S. invicta ants, and their populations are rapidly declining. The study also showed that the aggressive behavior of the S. invicta ants is having a ripple effect on the entire ecosystem, as the native species are keystone species that play an essential role in keeping the balance in the environment.

These findings demonstrate the urgent need to protect native species from the threat of invasive species. Without intervention, the native species of the Sonoran Desert will continue

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source: Phys.org