Impact of Eucalyptus camaldulensis Stands on Ant Community Diversity in Arid Ecosystems: Insights from the Tabernas Desert (SE Spain)

This study evaluates the effects of Eucalyptus camaldulensis stands established within the ramblas of the Tabernas Desert (SE Spain) on ant communities used as ecological bioindicators. Ants were sampled using pitfall traps in four eucalyptus stands and adjacent areas of natural vegetation between 2017 and 2024. Diversity indices, species accumulation curves, non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS), PERMANOVA, and indicator species analyses were conducted. The results show that, although the total number of species is similar in both environments, eucalyptus ecosystems present significantly higher diversity and evenness, also harboring a notable presence of the specialist genus Temnothorax, which is typical of structured habitats. In the context of extreme aridity, these tree formations act as hybrid ecosystems that increase landscape heterogeneity, providing refuge and microclimatic regulation. Therefore, from a sustainable management perspective, the study advises against the drastic eradication or clear-cutting of this non-native species, as this could destabilize the soil and worsen habitat degradation. Instead, it is recommended to use their current structure transitorily as an “ecological bridge,” applying selective thinning to facilitate the progressive and safe recovery of native flora and fauna.