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Fire Ant Predators: Enemies & Killers

The imported red fire ant, or Solenopsis invicta, is a native of Brazil, where it has natural predators.

After arriving in North America via Mobile, Alabama in the 1930's, the red imported fire ant found a hospitable climate in the American South and has spread across the country, developing colonies as far west as California and as far north as Maryland. Ideal fire ant locations have dry, sunny and flat conditions. Loose earth is preferable for mound construction.

However, the American South does not merely offer the imported red ant an appropriate climate within which to thrive: it is also lacking in natural fire ant predators, allowing the ant to expand unchecked. Because there are no natural fire ant predators in North America, scientists are exploring the possibility of introducing a species of phorid fly to control fire ant colonies. This South American parasite, a member of the genus Apocephalus, is also known as the ant-decapitator fly. Phorid flies lay eggs in the heads of live fire ants. As the eggs hatch, they incapacitate the host ant and the larvae consume the ant's body for food.

Humans are the only other predator of the fire ant.  It is strongly recommended that anyone experiencing a fire ant infestation contact his or her local pest control experts for efficient and effective treatment.

Fire Ant Cross Reactivity

Native Fire Ants

Imported Fire Ants

Fire Ant Nests, Hills & Range

Fire Ants and Cat Food