INTRODUCED ANTS IN THE UNITED-ARAB-EMIRATES

Fifteen species of introduced ants, including eight cosmopolitan or tr amp species, are recorded for the first time in the United Arab Emirat es. They are Cardiocondyla emeryi, Camponotus compressus, Iridomyrmex anceps, Linepithema humile, Monomorium destructor, Monomorium indicum, Pachycondyla sennaarensis, Paratrechina flavipes, Paratrechina jaeger skioeldi, Paratrechina longicornis, Pheidole teneriffana, Solenopsis g eminata, Tapinoma melanocephalum, Tapinoma simrothi and Tetramorium bi carinatum. A synopsis of their distribution, biology and pest status i s given. Introduced species contribute an unusually high proportion of local ants and the ecological implications of their presence are disc ussed, including displacement of native fauna and impact upon human he alth. These ants abound in man-made, mesic environments and do not rea ch the characteristic sandy deserts of the region. Most invasive speci es are probably benign, but P.sennaarensis, M.destructor and S.geminat a pose potential problems as public health and nuisance pests. The hig hly competitive S. geminata and L. humile may also threaten the local entomofauna and biodiversity. (C) 1997 Academic Press Limited.