US Eradicates Invasive ‘Murder Hornets’ Threat to Ecosystems

Why in the news?

The United States successfully eradicated the invasive northern giant hornets, protecting honeybees and agriculture through a collaborative effort involving government agencies, scientists, and public participation.

US Eradicates Invasive 'Murder Hornets' Threat to Ecosystems

Why ‘Murder Hornets’ Were a Threat:

  • The northern giant hornet, nicknamed “murder hornet,” is an invasive species from Asia, first seen in Washington State in 2019.
  • These hornets, nearly 2 inches long, posed a severe threat to honeybees and agriculture.
  • They could destroy entire honeybee colonies in just 90 minutes during their “slaughter phase,” decapitating bees and using the hive for their own young.
  • They also attack other insects and deliver venom seven times stronger than honeybees, stinging multiple times and piercing most beekeeper suits.

Impact and Future Precautions

  • The eradication protected pollinators, crops, and ecosystems vital to agriculture and industries.
  • Mark Davidson of USDA emphasized the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding biodiversity.
  • While the hornets have been eradicated, vigilance remains necessary to prevent their reintroduction.

How the US Eradicated ‘Murder Hornets’?

  • State, federal, and international agencies collaborated to eradicate the species in the US, focusing efforts in Washington, the only state with confirmed sightings.
  • Entomologists tracked hornets by attaching radio tags to live specimens, which led them to underground nests often hidden in forested areas.
  • Once nests were located, they were plugged with foam, wrapped in plastic, and vacuumed. Carbon dioxide was used to eliminate any remaining hornets.
  • Public involvement was crucial, with residents helping to track nests and place traps on their properties.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times