For most of human history, Iceland, Greenland, and Antarctica shared a unique distinction: they were the only places on Earth where you could live completely ant-free. Out of over 14,000 ant species crawling across every other continent, not a single one could survive in these frozen landscapes.

Antarctica remains the world's only ant-free continent, and for good reason. Temperatures plunge to -75°F at the South Pole, and there's virtually no vegetation to support any ant colony. The extreme cold makes it impossible for these cold-blooded insects to maintain the body functions necessary for survival.

Iceland's Unwanted Visitors

Iceland's ant-free status, however, came to an end in 1974. That's when researchers discovered the first established colony of Hypoponera punctatissima, a tiny ant species that had hitched a ride from warmer climates. Since then, scientists have documented 25 different ant species in Iceland, with five successfully establishing permanent populations.

These invasive ants survive by exploiting human infrastructure. Four species thrive exclusively indoors, taking advantage of heated buildings. Only the black garden ant (Lasius niger) has managed to live outdoors in Icelandic gardens. The most widespread species, Hypoponera punctatissima, now has over 400 recorded locations in Reykjavík alone.

A Dangerous New Arrival

In 2021, Icelandic researchers made a concerning discovery: a colony of European fire ants (Myrmica rubra) containing roughly 5,000 workers and two queens in a Reykjavík garden. This species is highly invasive worldwide and can deliver painful stings to humans. Authorities quickly exterminated the colony, but its presence highlighted how climate change and global trade continue to chip away at Iceland's natural defenses.

Why Greenland Holds Out

Greenland remains ant-free for the same reasons Iceland once was. Summer temperatures barely reach 55°F, winters are brutal, and there's little vegetation to support colonies. The absence of trees and limited food sources create an environment where even the hardiest ant species can't gain a foothold.

The bigger picture: Ants have conquered nearly every terrestrial ecosystem on Earth, from rainforests to deserts. The fact that only the most extreme cold environments can keep them out speaks to their remarkable adaptability. As global temperatures rise and international shipping increases, even the last holdouts may eventually see their first six-legged colonizers.

Related Tags