Orkin Exterminator & Termite Control

Fire Ant Cross Reactivity

The imported red fire ant has no local, natural predators in North America. Recently, experiments have been undertaken to determine the viability of introducing a foreign predatory species as a means of controlling the imported red fire ant. In the past decade, the phorid fly, a predator native to South America has been introduced to imported red fire ant colonies. This fly lays its eggs inside the head of the red fire ant. After hatching, the larvae kill their host and consume its body while developing. This has proven a potentially viable method of controlling imported red fire ant populations in infested areas.

This treatment, called cross reactivity, is commonly found in immunology, referring to the ability of an antibody to react with or bind an antigen that did not stimulate its production. In other words, find something that preys on ants that would also develop a desire to consume fire ants. It also can reference methods on countering the acid produced by fire ant stings.

Fire ant cross reactivity is also being studied and is yielding insightful findings in toxicology and venom-related immunization. Cross relativity experiments have examined the correlation between fire ant venom and scorpion venom and fire ant venom and various mosquito venoms. These experiments aim to determine which chemicals present in venom are responsible for unpleasant reactions in humans. By isolating different sources of venom, it will prove easier to explore preventive measures and treatments.

Fire Ant Predators: Enemies & Killers

Native Fire Ants

Imported Fire Ants

Fire Ant Nests, Hills & Range

Fire Ants and Cat Food