Tackling Red Imported Fire Ants

What is Red Imported Fire Ant?

Red Imported Fire Ant is a kind of ants and its scientific name is Solenopsis invicta Buren.

How do we distinguish Red Imported Fire Ants from other ants?

Red Imported Fire Ant is a small ant species (about 3-6 mm) which is difficult to distinguish from other ants by the form or other features. However, when Red Imported Fire Ants are disturbed, they will emerge from the mounds and be very aggressive.

Is Red Imported Fire Ant a local species? Where is its origin?

Red Imported Fire Ants are small ants native to South America. They have dispersed to other parts of the world through commercial activities and shipments of farm produce. They were introduced to southern regions of the USA in the 1920's, Australia in 2001, and Taiwan in 2003. In late 2004, Red Imported Fire Ants were discovered in Guangdong.

What is the impact of Red Imported Fire Ants on us?

Given their large populations and aggressiveness, Red Imported Fire Ants may have an impact on ecology and the natural environment. Red Imported Fire Ants may also give human a fiery sting. The sting can give a painful, itchy and burning sensation. A blister will form at the base of each sting and the wound will usually heal in 10 to 14 days if it is tended properly. On rare occasions, Red Imported Fire Ant stings can cause severe acute allergic reactions which may lead to death. According to current information, instances of severe acute allergic reactions caused by Red Imported Fire Ant stings are rare.

Where do Red Imported Fire Ants build their nest?

Red Imported Fire Ants usually build their nests in places such as abandoned fields, footpaths of farmlands, dams, kerbs, village roads, lawns, planters, gardens and golf courses.

What are the characteristics of the nest of Red Imported Fire Ants?

The easiest way to identify Red Imported Fire Ants is to trace their mounds. Red Imported Fire Ants will build an earth mound 10 to 45 cm high at the entrance of their nest.

How can we eliminate Red Imported Fire Ants?

If suspected Red Imported Fire Ants are discovered, a small quantity can be eliminated by domestic pesticides. If it is a large colony, pest control companies should be hired to eradicate the pest. Please apply pesticides in accordance with the amount indicated on the label of the pesticide product and wear appropriate protective clothing. Conduct follow-up inspections at those locations where red imported fire ant mounds have been found before to ensure elimination of the ants.

Collection and delivery of specimens

Please soak dead suspected ants in 70% alcohol, specifying the time and place of collection, the person who collected the specimen and contact information and send the specimens to the Plant and Pesticides Regulatory Division of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department at 5/F, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon. Please ensure that the specimens are delivered in a safe manner and carry out necessary precautions when collecting ant samples to avoid being stung by them.

What should I do if stung by a Red Imported Fire Ant?

People should avoid coming into contact with Red Imported Fire Ants. If you are stung by it, please take the following measures: Wash the wound with soap and water gently; Keep the blisters intact, do not scratch or break the blisters; Apply cold compress to relieve the swelling and pain; Seek medical advice if necessary. * If you have history of allergy to insects or allergic reactions are suspected, see the doctor immediately. These allergic reactions may include: rapid onset of flushing or general hives; swelling of the face, eyes or throat; chest pain; nausea; excessive sweating; breathing difficulties; or dizziness.

Enquiries and Further Information

Plant and Pesticides Regulatory Division The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department Address: 5/F, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon. Tel : 2150 7000 Email : plantlic@afcd.gov.hk Department of Health's 24-hour Health Education Hotline : 2833 0111 GovHK website : www.gov.hk   Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government Revised version 6/2007