Ant invasion in Knielingen: residents on the verge of despair!

Ant invasion in Knielingen: residents on the verge of despair!

A real plague of ants has spread in the Knielingen district of Karlsruhe, which is putting a considerable burden on residents. Loud SWR Many people complain about a heavy insect infestation in their homes, especially on Lassallestrasse. Those affected report invading ants that have nested under sinks, on patios and even in beds.

The Franz couple is just one of the many examples: “It’s unbearable, the ants are everywhere,” said the wife. Their neighbors are experiencing similar problems, with frequent nighttime ant baiting operations becoming routine. One affected resident even explained that she had to refuel up to three times a night while her apartment was covered in traces of the little pests. “That can’t be right!” is the general opinion among residents.

An invasive species on the rise

The species of ant that is particularly causing problems here is the invasive Lasius neglectus. This originally comes from the region around the Black Sea and is spreading rapidly in the Karlsruhe city area. Residents report that they have noticed the ant colonies for years, but the current situation is reaching catastrophic proportions.

A desperate cry for help also came from a resident who even had to think about moving because the burden had become unbearable. Another reported that she dreams of ants at night and thrashes around in her sleep to drive them away. It seems like this sudden invasion has greatly affected the lives of the local people.

Practical tips for combating it

Insect expert Manfred Verhaagh has advised residents to block possible entrances for ants on windows and doors. “Silicone or construction foam are the materials of choice here,” he says. He also recommends using deterrents such as vinegar water, cinnamon and geraniol to help yourself. But he also warns that such means do not offer a permanent solution. “You should definitely avoid waste in your home, it attracts animals,” Verhaagh continued.

The situation can be defused at least in the short term with targeted control by exterminators, as they have special tools that can be used to combat the ants. Loud Mirror Invasive species pose a major challenge to the ecosystem and the quality of life in the affected areas.

Also explained MDR that there are around 120 species of ants in Germany, but most of them are considered harmless. A quick identification of the species is important in order to take targeted countermeasures. For example, there is the Tapinoma magnum, whose workers are between 2.5 and 3.5 millimeters in size and give off a rancid, buttery aroma when they are crushed.

The situation in Knielingen is a striking example of how invasive species not only influence nature, but can also significantly disrupt people's daily lives. The residents are hoping for a quick solution and support from the city, whose responsibility for private properties is currently perceived by many to be inadequate.