Invasion of yellow crazy ant Anoplolepis gracilipes in a Seychelles UNESCO palm forest

A study on the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve reveals that the invasive yellow crazy ant (Anoplolepis gracilipes) has significantly impacted the endemic fauna of this unique Seychellois palm forest. Since its first recorded presence in 2009, the ant has been confined to the northeast region, showing minimal spread between 2010 and 2012. Infested areas exhibit higher temperature and humidity but lower canopy cover compared to uninvaded zones. Notably, endemic arboreal fauna abundance and species richness were reduced in invaded areas, with molluscs entirely absent. This restricted distribution suggests potential biotic resistance or the need for effective control measures to mitigate further ecological disruption.

Kaiser-Bunbury, C., Cuthbert, H., Fox, R., Birch, D., & Bunbury, N. (2014). Invasion of yellow crazy ant Anoplolepis gracilipes in a Seychelles UNESCO palm forest. NeoBiota, 22, 43–57. https://doi.org/10.3897/neobiota.22.6634