Introduced ants in the United Arab Emirates.

Fifteen species of introduced ants, including eight cosmopolitan or tramp species, are recorded for the first time in the United Arab Emirates. They are Cardiocondyla emeryi,Camponotus compressus, Iridomyrmex anceps, Linepithema humile, Monomorium destructor, Monomorium indicum, Pachycondyla sennaarensis, Paratrechina flavipes, Paratrechina jaegerskioeldi, Paratrechina longicomis, Pheidole teneriffana, Solenopsis geminata, Tapinoma melanocephalum, Tapinoma simrothi and Tetramorium bicarinatum. A synopsis of their distribution, biology and pest status is given. Introduced species contribute an unusually high proportion of local ants and the ecological implications of their presence are discussed, including displacement of native fauna and impact upon human health. These ants abound in man-made, mesic environments and do not reach the characteristic sandy deserts of the region. Most invasive species are probably benign, but P. sennaarensis, M. destructor and S. geminata pose potential problems as public health and nuisance pests. The highly competitive S. geminata and L. humile may also threaten the local entomofauna and biodiversity.