Imported Fire Ants
The Solenopsis invicta, or red imported fire ant, was brought into the United States in the 1930's via a shipment of cargo. Since that time, imported fire ants have established a strong presence throughout the South. They have been identified as far west as California and as far north as Maryland. In addition to the nuisance and the hazard they pose to humans, imported fire ants are also being blamed for a decline in the populations of certain ground- nesting birds. They have had an impact on cattle production and on many forms of wildlife.
Red imported fire ants have few natural predators in North America, and it humans are forced to combat their rapidly increasing numbers. Home and over-the-counter remedies exist, but pest control experts are the most effective means by which to combat a fire ant infestation. Professional fire ant control techniques include insecticides or insect growth regulators combined with a food attractant. After technicians have spread the bait around known colonies, worker ants will carry it to the colony, where it will be ingested by the queen and young, leading to the eradication of the colony.
The imported fire ant's bite is painful to humans and is comprised of two steps: fire ants use their mandibles to bite their prey, then use their stinger to deliver an alkaloid venom. Initially, fire ant stings result in irritation and clusters of red bumps. However, if not treated immediately after the attack, the bumps will become white pustules, which pose a high risk of infection and scarring.
Red Imported Fire Ants Video:
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