
2 minute read
Red imported fire ants
The saying “an ant may well destroy a whole dam” seems fitting in the case of red imported fire ants (Solenopsis invicta) , a super pest which could have a devastating impact on the environment –as well as social and economic implications.
Known as one of the worst invasive species to reach Australia’s shores, red imported fire ants (RIFA) were first detected in Australia in 2001 in Queensland. Several other detections have been made over the past 20 years, including at ports in Sydney and Fremantle. Recently, RIFA have been making their way south, and are currently about 5km north of the New South Wales/Queensland border.
According to a James Cook University insect ecologist and member of the scientific advisory group for the National Red Imported Fire Ant Eradication Program, there is a “good chance” that RIFA have already infiltrated New South Wales.
Government officials are urging Queensland and New South Wales residents to be on high alert and report any suspected detections.
How do RIFA affect us?
- RIFA are aggressive and have a severe, burning sting.
- Large numbers of ants will swarm onto a person or animal stinging over and over, causing the sensation of being on fire.
- Stings can become infected and in rare cases lead to fatal allergic reactions.
- Infestations restrict the use of backyards, parks, playgrounds, beaches and sports fields and damage electrical, irrigation and agricultural equipment
- Fire ants feed on seeds, insects, spiders, lizards, frogs, birds and mammals. They can displace or kill off native plants and animals and change whole ecosystems beyond repair.
- Their presence limits the ability to export goods to states or countries free of red imported fire ants.
What do they look like?
RIFA are copper brown in colour, with a darker abdomen. They are quite small, at 2-6mm and found in a variety of sizes within one nest. They look similar to other ants.
What do their nests look like?
Fire ant nests can appear as domeshaped mounds or be flat and look like a small patch of disturbed soil. All nests have no obvious entry or exit holes. The ants enter and leave the mound via undergroun d tunnels which radiate outward from the nest – these tunnels can be up to 30 metres long!
Internally, nests consist of many interconnecting galleries, which have a honeycomb appearance.
If a nest is disturbed, the workers may very quickly move the queen and the brood (eggs, larvae and pupae) to a new location.
Fire ant nests are often found in open areas such as lawns and pastures and along roadsides and unused cropland. They can also be found next to or under other objects on the ground, such as timber, logs, rocks, pavers or bricks.

Why is reporting so important?
RIFA represents a serious threat to our health, environment and economy. Members of the community and industry play an important role by reporting suspected detections. Early reporting is a vital part of preventing RIFA from establishing and spreading. RIFA is a notifiable pest in most Australian states and territories, which means there is a legal obligation to report suspected detections. This obligation applies to everyone, including individuals and organisations.
Anyone who suspects that they have seen RIFA or any other type of exotic invasive ants should report sightings to the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881. This number will put you in contact with your local department of primary industries or agriculture. v
Sources: https://www.outbreak.gov.au/currentoutbreaks/red-imported-fire-ant https://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/biosecurity/insectpests/fire-ants
National Fire Ant Eradication Program
