MIAMI, United States. — The santanilla, whose scientific name is wasmannia auropunctatais a species of ant endowed with a strong poison and that is present in several provinces of Cuba.
Originally from Mexico and Central America, it is an invasive introduced species that began to proliferate in the province of Sancti Spíritus. The first reports of its presence on the Caribbean island date back to 1863. Then it was known as tetramorium auropunctatum.
The worker sage, regarding 1.5 mm long, is light brown to golden brown. In some places it is called a red (or fire) ant, as well as an electric or fire ant due to its painful sting.
The introduction by man has caused santanilla to spread through tropical countries. In Cuba it has an abundant presence in regions such as the Isla de la Juventud and even in some areas of Havana.
The worst thing regarding santanilla is not only its strong poison, which can cause hives and allergies in humans, but that it is one of the five ant species that scientists have included in the list of the 100 worst invasive species.
The Santanillas are also famous for their aggressiveness and ability to defend themselves as a group once morest any perceived threat in their territory.
In Central African countries, this species of ant expands without limits and is affecting many other animal species, even elephants can be affected if they receive a sting in their eyes, something that also happens to tortoises in the Galapagos Islands.
Residents of some places consider that these ants have medicinal properties, which is why they have come to be used to treat various conditions, such as muscle pain, inflammation and headaches. However, its use in these cases is not supported by scientific studies.