Tiny New Pest Could Pose Huge Issues For Hong Kong

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2019-04-01 HKT 14:28

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• Tiny new pest could pose huge issues for Hong Kong

Scientists from the University of Hong Kong have discovered a tiny new pest in the SAR – a species of ant that is native to the Americas.

The Brachymyrmex patagonicus, or dark rover ant, is one of 13 new ant species that the scientists have added to the 174 officially recorded in Hong Kong.

Benoit Guénard, an assistant professor at the university's school of biological sciences, said it was the first time that this type of ant has been found in continental Asia.

The pest, which is just two millimetres long, is usually found in the US and South America.

Guénard said the ants are harmless to humans, but they are known to invade and create nests in homes and schools, and even more sensitive places like hospitals.

Researchers said if the species were to spread from its one known population in Hung Hom, then pest management costs would be likely to increase, and pesticides would have to be used more frequently.