An unprecedented number of 'fire ants' (aka 'hiali'), a species regarded as an invasive in Japan, were detected in one location in Tokyo, surpassing the previous record. This find further underscores the severity of the ecological issue posed by the invasive ants. Authorities are ramping up pest control measures to mitigate the potential damage to indigenous biodiversity, and to protect public health, as these ants can cause painful bites.
Japan has been battling invasive species like the 'fire ants' for years, implementing strict control measures. Japenese people take environmental conservation seriously; the spread of invasive species threatens their biodiverse ecosystems. Psychologically, those findings could be concerning to the public due to fire ant's painful sting that can pose health risks.
Like Japan, both the US and the EU also deal with invasive species which pose risks to their ecosystems. In the US, fire ants are prevalent in the southern regions, and strategies are in place for their control. In the EU, invasive species control is integrated into their biodiversity strategy, emphasizing prevention, early detection, and rapid eradication.