The Red Imported Fire Ant (RIFA) is more aggressive than most native ant species and have a painful sting. RIFA is native to central South America, but has been established in the US. They are small but highly aggressive ants. They inject a necrotizing, alkaloid venom when they sting. The stings result in painful, itchy, and persistent pustules, and sometimes in severe allergic reactions. RIFA colonies are extremely destructive. They dominate their home ranges due to their large numbers and aggressiveness. The lack of natural enemies results in population booms in areas they invade.

 

LIFE CYCLE AND CONTROL

Fire ants live in colonies that may have 100,000 to 500,000 ants. The queen of the colony can lay from 1500 to 5000 eggs per day, never leaves the nest and can live for many years. Worker ants take care of the queen and her eggs, build the nest, defend the colony, and find food. Preferred food of fire ants consists of protein-rich sources such as insects and seeds. Winged male and female ants fly from the colony in the spring and summer to mate in the air. The males die and the females become queens that start new colonies.

 

For professionals and residents carrying out their own management programs, ant baits are recommended because they are inexpensive, highly effective, and safe for the environment.