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  • Solenopsis invicta worker (Photo: Peter Green)
  • Solenopsis invicta on pen (Photo: Queensland Department of Primary Industries)
  • Solenopsis invicta earth mound (Photo: Queensland Department of Primary Industries)
  • Solenopsis invicta stings (Photo: Queensland Department of Primary Industries)
  • Solenopsis invicta relative sizes (Photo: Queensland Department of Primary Industries)
  • Fire ant nest at base of a tree (Photo: Matt Yoder, Texas A&M Unversity)
  • RIFA dorsal view (Photo: Matt Yoder, Texas A&M Unversity)
  • RIFA mandibles (Photo: Matt Yoder, Texas A&M Unversity)
  • Size range of fire ant workers with queen (Photo: Sanford Porter, USDA-ARS, Gainesville, FL)
  • Solenopsis invicta (Photo: AV Suarez, AntWeb, hosted by California Academy of Sciences)
  • Solenopsis invicta  (Photo: Mark Deyrup , AntWeb, hosted by California Academy of Sciences)
  • Solenopsis invicta (Photo: Lloyd R Davis, AntWeb, hosted by California Academy of Sciences)
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Common name
rote importierte Feuerameise (German), red imported fire ant (RIFA) (English), fourmi de feu (French)
Synonym
Solenopsis wagneri , (Santschi)
Solenopsis saevissima , var. wagneri (Santschi)
Similar species
Summary
Solenopsis invicta is an aggressive generalist forager ant that occurs in high densities and can thus dominate most potential food sources. They breed and spread rapidly and, if disturbed, can relocate quickly so as to ensure survival of the colony. Their stinging ability allows them to subdue prey and repel even larger vertebrate competitors from resources.
Species Description
Workers in the Solenopsis genus are polymorphic, meaning they are physically differentiated into more than two different body-forms (Holway et al. 2002). Fire ants are quite small, varying from 2 - 6mm in length, and are predominantly reddish-brown in colour. Their nests vary in shape and size, but all have a honeycomb-like internal structure and are usually found in open areas including lawns, pastures, along roadsides and abandoned cropland. They may be 40cm high dome-shaped mounds without any obvious entrance/exit. Mounds may not be evident at all. The red imported fire ant should not be confused with those species which are commonly called fire ants.

Please click on AntWeb: Solenopsis invicta for more images and assistance with identification. The AntWeb image comparison tool lets you compare images of ants at the subfamily, genus, species or specimen level. You may also specify which types of images you would like to comare: head, profile, dorsal, or label.
Please see PaDIL (Pests and Diseases Image Library) Species Content Page Ants: Red imported fire ant for high quality diagnostic and overview images.

Please follow this link for a fully illustrated Lucid key to common invasive ants [Hymenoptera: Formicidae] of the Pacific Island region [requires the most recent version of Java installed]. The factsheet on Solenopsis invicta contains an overview, diagnostic features, comparision charts, images, nomenclature and links. (Sarnat, 2008)

Notes
In northern Alabama and Mississippi, where their ranges overlap the red imported fire ant (S. invicta) is known to hybridise with the black imported fire ant (S. richteri) (Holway et al. 2002).
Uses
The mound-building activities of non-native Solenopsis spp. alter physical and biogeochemical properties of soils, and can lead to increased soil aerationand infiltrability, elevated soil pH, increased phosphorous and potassium levels, lowered surface soil bulk density, change in organic matter, altered soil texture and enhanced fungal abundance. These influences are further enhanced by plant uptake and excretion in the rhizosphere, and cause other flow-on effects within ecosystems. This an area that has not been well studied, and more research is warranted (DeFauw et al. 2008 and references therein).
Habitat Description
S. invicta is a “hot climate specialist” and inhabits hot arid regions. Cold climates are unsuitable for its successful establishment in native ecosystems. However, it may survive in such climates in human habitations or infrastructure (such as climate-controlled buildings or greenhouses). Although its capacity for local spread will be restricted its continued presence is a threat as it provides a source from which long distance spread can occur (McGlynn 1999; Holway et al. 2002). It is estimated that continental areas receiving more than 510mm of precipitation per year will support S. invicta while areas receiving less than this will only support populations of the ant near sources of permanent water or in regularly irrigated areas. These include lakes, rivers, springs, lawns or agricultural areas (Morrison et al 2004).\nBoth the red imported fire ant and the tropical fire ant (S. geminata) are more likely to colonise open environments and are opportunistic exploiters of human associated habitats, such as the ones previously mentioned (Holway et al. 2002).

In general, invasive ants are usually more likely to establish in disturbed habitats, including the edges of forests or agricultural areas (Ness and Bronstein 2004). Deforested areas are particularly at risk of becoming colonised by red imported fire ants (Morrison et al 2004). S. invicta constructs earthen mounds for the purposes of brood thermoregulation, which are easier to build in open, sunny areas; so it is less abundant in, and in general poses a smaller threat to, densely wooded forest habitats (Tschinkel 1993; Porter and Tschinkel 1993, in Morrison et al 2004). Tropical regions that are warm and wet, but also densely forested do not represent a suitable habitat for fire ants (Morrison et al 2004).

Reproduction
The queen produces from 800 to 2000 eggs per day. She produces sterile worker females and occasionally fertile females and males. Fertilised females may start new colonies. Uniclonal colonies are known to establish new colonies by budding. A queen or queens leave the nest with a cohort of workers, larvae, etc. and start a new colony. Mature fire ant colonies may contain up to 400,000 worker ants.
Nutrition
The red imported fire ant may gain nutrition from includes invertebrates, vertebrates and plants, and oily or sugary foods. However it is known to prefer protein-rich food sources and may be a great consumer of insects (Ness and Bronstein 2004). Studies suggest that S. invicta is not a great consumer of extra-floral nectar and rarely collects it (McLain 1983, in Ness and Bronstein 2004). S. invicta possess a venomous sting that increases its ability to consume large invertebrates (and potentially small vertebrates) (Holway et al. 2002). In terms of bait preference, the red imported fire ant prefers solid and protein-rich baits (Stein et al. 1990, Cherry and Nuessly 1992, Brinkman et al. 2001, in Ness and Bronstein 2004).
Pathway
Fire ants are found near areas of permanent water, such as dams, rivers, ponds and aquaculture containers. Because of this they may be spread by the associated trade industries.Fire ants often establish themselves in pot-plants in contact with the ground, in stores of topsoil, mulch and potting mixes and under landscaping materials.The red imported fire ant is able to rapidly colonise disturbed areas and may be spread by the movement of soil or plant material (Morrison et al 2004). Deforested areas are at great risk considering the high level of movement of materials and equipment to and from such sites and the suitability of the disturbed environment for fire ant establishment. The movement of agricultural equipment or associated plants and planting material within or from infested areas risks the spread of the red imported fire ant, which often colonises these microhabitats in disturbed areas.The red imported fire ant is able to rapidly colonise disturbed areas and may be spread by the movement of soil or plant material (Morrison et al 2004). Deforested areas are at great risk considering the high level of movement of materials and equipment to and from such sites and the suitability of the disturbed environment for fire ant establishment. Fire ants often establish themselves in pot-plants in contact with the ground, in stores of topsoil, mulch and potting mixes and under landscaping materials.

Principal source:

Compiler: IUCN/SSC Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG) with support from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF)- Biosecurity New Zealand
Updates with support from the Overseas Territories Environmental Programme (OTEP) project XOT603, a joint project with the Cayman Islands Government - Department of Environment

Review: Neil Reimer, Ph.D. Plant Quarantine Branch Chief Hawaii Department of Agriculture

Publication date: 2010-10-04

Recommended citation: Global Invasive Species Database (2024) Species profile: Solenopsis invicta. Downloaded from http://www.iucngisd.org/gisd/speciesname/Solenopsis+invicta on 08-12-2024.

General Impacts
Please read Invasive ants impacts for a summary of the general impacts of invasive ants, such as their affect on mutualistic relations, the competitive pressure they impose on native ants and the effect they may have on vulnerable ecosystems. \r\n

There is conflicting evidence as to whether S. invicta inhibits the dispersal of ant-dispersed plants. In some cases, it may interrupt and reduce dispersal by competing with native ant dispersers, eating seeds whole or in-effectively dispersing seeds (ie: by leaving them exposed on the soil surface rather than protecting them by seed-burial). S. invicta may increase or decrease the survival of plant, depending on the species and other biotic variables. They may benefit a plant by killing, or at least deterring, insects that damage the plant (such as plant-feeding insects). Alternatively, or in addition, they may reduce numbers of insects that benefit the plant, such as plant mutualists that protect the plant or disperse plant seeds or carnivorous insects (that prey on plant-feeding insects). In fact, S. invicta is a notable example of an invasive ant which has negative effects on such insects, because it prefers a protein-rich diet (Ness and Bronstein 2004).\r\n

S. invicta reduces biodiversity among invertebrates and reptiles, and may also kill or injure frogs, lizards or small mammals. In particular the red imported fire ant has the potential to devastate native ant populations (McGlynn 1999). It is competitively dominant to most other invasive ant species; it has displaced the Argentine ant (Linepithema humile), but not Monomorium minimum, in areas in the USA where the species have been introduced (Holway et al. 2002). In the USA, it has been found to negatively impact at least fourteen bird species, thirteen reptile species, one fish species and two small mammal species (through predation, competition and/or stinging) (Holway et al. 2002). The current economic impact of S. invicta on humans, agriculture, and wildlife in the United States is estimated to amount to at least half a billion, if not several billion, dollars per year (Thompson et al. 1995, Thompson and Jones 1996, in Morrison et al 2004).\r\n

S. invicta may impact social and economic activities at all levels. They can sting people and may cause an allergic reaction. Public areas such as parks and recreational areas may become unsafe for children. They may infest electrical equipment (such as computers, swimming pool pumps, cars or washing machines) becoming a nuisance, or even a danger, to people. Agricultural impacts may include damage to crops, interference with equipment and the stinging of workers in the field. The costs associated with S. invicta in the United States, for example, have been estimated at $1 billion per year (Pimentel et al. 2000, Tsutsui and Suarez 2003). The Australian Bureau of Agriculture Resources Economics has estimated the losses procured in rural industries to amount to more than AU $6.7 billion over 30 years. According to a professor at the Texas Agricultural Extension (USA) the agricultural economic losses caused by the ant are an estimated US $90 million annually. In Texas at least US $580 million was spent in 2000 to control this pest. Gutrich et al. (2007) undertook a study to estimate the potential economic costs to Hawaii, in case of the introduction and establishment of the red imported fire ant. The authors of the study conclude that the estimated impact on various economic sectors in Hawaii would be around US $ 211 million/year. \r\n

\r\nClick here for Information about the relation between colony structure and level of threat

Management Info
Preventative measures: Early detection by active surveillance and subsequent nest treatment is the best way to prevent any ant species from establishing in novel environments. Pitfalls and attractant baits are both methods that can yield good results.(Simon O'Connor pers.comm). The Pacific Ant Prevention Programme is a proposal prepared for the Pacific Plant Protection Organisation and Regional Technical Meeting for Plant Protection. This plan aims to prevent the red imported fire ant and other invasive ant species with economic, environmental or social impacts from establishing within or spreading between countries in the Pacific.

Integrated management: The potential of invasive ants to reach high densities is greater in human-modified ecosystems; this is particularly evident with respect to land that is intensely utilised for primary production. For example, the little fire ant (Wasmannia auropunctata) is a great problem in areas in its native South America that have been over-exploited by humans, including in sugarcane monocultures and cocoa farms in south Colombia and Brazil, respectively (Armbrecht and Ulloa-Chacón 2003). Similarly, the Argentine ant (Linepithema humile) reaches high densities in agricultural systems such as citrus orchards (which host mutualistic honeydew producing insects) (Armbrecht and Ulloa-Chacón 2003; Holway et al. 2002). Improved land management, including a reduction in monoculture and an increase in the efficiency of primary production, may help invasive ant prevent population explosions (alleviating the problems caused by high densities of ants) and could reduce potential sources from which new infestations could occur.\r\n

Biological: Parasitic phorid flies have been introduced to control S. invicta. Multiple species of these parasitic flies (originally from Argentina and Brazil) have been released by researchers at the Brackenridge Field Laboratory (BFL). The fly larvae develop inside the ants and kill their host. Pseudacteon tricuspis, was introduced to several locations in Texas beginning in 1999 with BFL in central Austin. Flytraps have been used to map the spread of the first species of phorid fly introduced. It is found that the inrtroduced phorid flies have spread to more than 12 counties and 3.5 million acres in Central Texas and seven counties and 1.5 million acres in the Coastal Bend region of Texas, speading at 3 to ten miles per year from the initial introduction areas. Two other phorid flies have been introduced since 2004. For more details please see Using phorid flies in the biocontrol of imported fire ants in Texas.\r\n

For details on preventative measures, chemical and biological control options, please see management information.

Countries (or multi-country features) with distribution records for Solenopsis invicta
Informations on Solenopsis invicta has been recorded for the following locations. Click on the name for additional informations.
Lorem Ipsum
Location Status Invasiveness Occurrence Source
Details of Solenopsis invicta in information
Status
Invasiveness
Arrival date
Occurrence
Source
Introduction
Species notes for this location
Location note
Management notes for this location
Impact
Mechanism:
Outcome:
Ecosystem services:
Impact information
Please read Invasive ants impacts for a summary of the general impacts of invasive ants, such as their affect on mutualistic relations, the competitive pressure they impose on native ants and the effect they may have on vulnerable ecosystems. \r\n

There is conflicting evidence as to whether S. invicta inhibits the dispersal of ant-dispersed plants. In some cases, it may interrupt and reduce dispersal by competing with native ant dispersers, eating seeds whole or in-effectively dispersing seeds (ie: by leaving them exposed on the soil surface rather than protecting them by seed-burial). S. invicta may increase or decrease the survival of plant, depending on the species and other biotic variables. They may benefit a plant by killing, or at least deterring, insects that damage the plant (such as plant-feeding insects). Alternatively, or in addition, they may reduce numbers of insects that benefit the plant, such as plant mutualists that protect the plant or disperse plant seeds or carnivorous insects (that prey on plant-feeding insects). In fact, S. invicta is a notable example of an invasive ant which has negative effects on such insects, because it prefers a protein-rich diet (Ness and Bronstein 2004).\r\n

S. invicta reduces biodiversity among invertebrates and reptiles, and may also kill or injure frogs, lizards or small mammals. In particular the red imported fire ant has the potential to devastate native ant populations (McGlynn 1999). It is competitively dominant to most other invasive ant species; it has displaced the Argentine ant (Linepithema humile), but not Monomorium minimum, in areas in the USA where the species have been introduced (Holway et al. 2002). In the USA, it has been found to negatively impact at least fourteen bird species, thirteen reptile species, one fish species and two small mammal species (through predation, competition and/or stinging) (Holway et al. 2002). The current economic impact of S. invicta on humans, agriculture, and wildlife in the United States is estimated to amount to at least half a billion, if not several billion, dollars per year (Thompson et al. 1995, Thompson and Jones 1996, in Morrison et al 2004).\r\n

S. invicta may impact social and economic activities at all levels. They can sting people and may cause an allergic reaction. Public areas such as parks and recreational areas may become unsafe for children. They may infest electrical equipment (such as computers, swimming pool pumps, cars or washing machines) becoming a nuisance, or even a danger, to people. Agricultural impacts may include damage to crops, interference with equipment and the stinging of workers in the field. The costs associated with S. invicta in the United States, for example, have been estimated at $1 billion per year (Pimentel et al. 2000, Tsutsui and Suarez 2003). The Australian Bureau of Agriculture Resources Economics has estimated the losses procured in rural industries to amount to more than AU $6.7 billion over 30 years. According to a professor at the Texas Agricultural Extension (USA) the agricultural economic losses caused by the ant are an estimated US $90 million annually. In Texas at least US $580 million was spent in 2000 to control this pest. Gutrich et al. (2007) undertook a study to estimate the potential economic costs to Hawaii, in case of the introduction and establishment of the red imported fire ant. The authors of the study conclude that the estimated impact on various economic sectors in Hawaii would be around US $ 211 million/year. \r\n

\r\nClick here for Information about the relation between colony structure and level of threat

Red List assessed species 3: CR = 1; VU = 1; NT = 1;
View more species View less species
Outcomes
[13] Environmental Ecosystem - Habitat
  • [11] Reduction in native biodiversity
  • [2] Habitat degradation
[28] Socio-Economic
  • [7] Damage to agriculture
  • [10] Human health
  • [10] Human nuisance 
  • [1] Damage to infrastructures
Management information
Preventative measures: Early detection by active surveillance and subsequent nest treatment is the best way to prevent any ant species from establishing in novel environments. Pitfalls and attractant baits are both methods that can yield good results.(Simon O'Connor pers.comm). The Pacific Ant Prevention Programme is a proposal prepared for the Pacific Plant Protection Organisation and Regional Technical Meeting for Plant Protection. This plan aims to prevent the red imported fire ant and other invasive ant species with economic, environmental or social impacts from establishing within or spreading between countries in the Pacific.

Integrated management: The potential of invasive ants to reach high densities is greater in human-modified ecosystems; this is particularly evident with respect to land that is intensely utilised for primary production. For example, the little fire ant (Wasmannia auropunctata) is a great problem in areas in its native South America that have been over-exploited by humans, including in sugarcane monocultures and cocoa farms in south Colombia and Brazil, respectively (Armbrecht and Ulloa-Chacón 2003). Similarly, the Argentine ant (Linepithema humile) reaches high densities in agricultural systems such as citrus orchards (which host mutualistic honeydew producing insects) (Armbrecht and Ulloa-Chacón 2003; Holway et al. 2002). Improved land management, including a reduction in monoculture and an increase in the efficiency of primary production, may help invasive ant prevent population explosions (alleviating the problems caused by high densities of ants) and could reduce potential sources from which new infestations could occur.\r\n

Biological: Parasitic phorid flies have been introduced to control S. invicta. Multiple species of these parasitic flies (originally from Argentina and Brazil) have been released by researchers at the Brackenridge Field Laboratory (BFL). The fly larvae develop inside the ants and kill their host. Pseudacteon tricuspis, was introduced to several locations in Texas beginning in 1999 with BFL in central Austin. Flytraps have been used to map the spread of the first species of phorid fly introduced. It is found that the inrtroduced phorid flies have spread to more than 12 counties and 3.5 million acres in Central Texas and seven counties and 1.5 million acres in the Coastal Bend region of Texas, speading at 3 to ten miles per year from the initial introduction areas. Two other phorid flies have been introduced since 2004. For more details please see Using phorid flies in the biocontrol of imported fire ants in Texas.\r\n

For details on preventative measures, chemical and biological control options, please see management information.

Bibliography
53 references found for Solenopsis invicta

Management information
AntWeb, 2006. Solenopsis invicta
Summary: AntWeb illustrates ant diversity by providing information and high quality color images of many of the approximately 10,000 known species of ants. AntWeb currently focusses on the species of the Nearctic and Malagasy biogeographic regions, and the ant genera of the world. Over time, the site is expected to grow to describe every species of ant known. AntWeb provides the following tools: Search tools, Regional Lists, In-depth information, Ant Image comparision tool PDF field guides maps on AntWeb and Google Earth and Ant genera of the world slide show.
AntWeb is available from: http://antweb.org/about.jsp [Accessed 20 April 2006]
The species page is available from: http://antweb.org/getComparison.do?rank=species&genus=solenopsis&name=invicta&project=&project= [Accessed 2 May 2006]
Brackenridge Field Laboratory (BFL) The University of Texas at Austin 2001. Using Phorid flies in the biocontrol of imported fire ants in Texas
Summary: Available from: http://uts.cc.utexas.edu/~gilbert/research/fireants/fireant.html [Accessed 27 September 2006]
Carmichael, A. 2006. Red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta) Pest and Diseases Image Library. Updated on 29/08/2006 12:06:03 PM.
Summary: PaDIL (Pests and Diseases Image Library) is a Commonwealth Government initiative, developed and built by Museum Victoria s Online Publishing Team, with support provided by DAFF (Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry) and PHA (Plant Health Australia), a non-profit public company. Project partners also include Museum Victoria, the Western Australian Department of Agriculture and the Queensland University of Technology. The aim of the project is: 1) Production of high quality images showing primarily exotic targeted organisms of plant health concern to Australia. 2) Assist with plant health diagnostics in all areas, from initial to high level. 3) Capacity building for diagnostics in plant health, including linkage developments between training and research organisations. 4) Create and use educational tools for training undergraduates/postgraduates. 5) Engender public awareness about plant health concerns in Australia. PaDIL is available from : http://www.padil.gov.au/aboutOverview.aspx, this page is available from: http://www.padil.gov.au/viewPestDiagnosticImages.aspx?id=93 [Accessed 6 October 2006]
Commonwealth of Australia. 2006a. Threat abatement plan to reduce the impacts of tramp ants on biodiversity in Australia and its territories, Department of the Environment and Heritage, Canberra.
Summary: This plan establishes a national framework to guide and coordinate Australia�s response to tramp ants, identifying the research, management, and other actions necessary to ensure the long term survival of native species and ecological communities affected by tramp ants. It identifies six national priority species as an initial, but flexible, list on which to focus attention. They are the red imported fi re ant (Solenopsis invicta), tropical fire ant (S. geminata), little fire ant (Wasmannia auropunctata), African big-headed ant (Pheidole megacephala), yellow crazy ant (Anoplolepis gracilipes), and Argentine ant (Linepithema humile).
Available from: http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/publications/tap/pubs/tramp-ants.pdf [Accessed 17 November 2009]
Commonwealth of Australia. 2006b. Background document for the threat abatement plan to reduce the impacts of tramp ants on biodiversity in Australia and its territories, Department of the Environment and Heritage, Canberra.
Summary: This background document to the Threat abatement plan to reduce the impacts of tramp ants on biodiversity in Australia and its territories provides supporting information on a range of issues such as tramp ant biology, population dynamics, spread, biodiversity impacts and management measures.
Available from: http://www.environment.gov.au/biodiversity/threatened/publications/tap/pubs/tramp-ants-background.pdf [Accessed 17 November 2009]
Core, J. 2004. First Virus to Infect Red Imported Fire Ants Discovered. Agricultural Research Service (US Department of Agriculture).
Summary: Available from: http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/pr/2004/041130.htm [Accessed 8 March 2005]
DOA (Department of Agriculture). 2006. Prevention and Control of Red Fire Ant in China. ( Original Chinese language document ) ( English translation of original document by Jia Ren, 2006 )
Summary: This source provides detailed information about the distribution, prevention and control management of red fire ants in China.
Forgie, A. Shaun., Kathryn O Halloran, Darren, F. Ward, Margaret Stanley, Jo S. Rees and Christine Daly., 2006. Environmental Impact Assessment for baits used during RIFA (red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta) incursions. Landcare Research Contract Report: LC0607/046
Greensmiths, Inc: Fire Ants.
Summary: Impacts, identification and control.
Gutrich, J.J., Ellen VanGelder and Lloyd Loope., 2007 In press. Potential economic impact of introduction and spread of the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta, in Hawaii. Environ. Sci. Policy, doi:10.1016/j.envsci.2007.03.007
Harris, R.; Abbott, K.; Barton, K.; Berry, J.; Don, W.; Gunawardana, D.; Lester, P.; Rees, J.; Stanley, M.; Sutherland, A.; Toft, R. 2005: Invasive ant pest risk assessment project for Biosecurity New Zealand. Series of unpublished Landcare Research contract reports to Biosecurity New Zealand. BAH/35/2004-1.
Summary: The invasive ant risk assessment project, prepared for Biosecurity New Zealand by Landcare Research, synthesises information on the ant species that occur in New Zealand (native and introduced species), and on invasive ants that pose a potential threat to New Zealand.
There is a great deal of information in this risk assessment on invasive ant species that is of global interest, including; biology, distribution, pest status, control technologies.
The assessment project has five sections.1) The Ants of New Zealand: information sheets on all native and introduced ants established in New Zealand 2) Preliminary invasive ant risk assessment: risk scorecard to quantify the threat to New Zealand of 75 ant species. 3) Information sheets on invasive ant threats: information sheets on all ant species scored as medium to high risk (n = 39). 4) Pest risk assessment: A detailed pest risk assessment for the eight species ranked as having the highest potential risk to New Zealand (Anoplolepis gracilipes, Lasius neglectus, Monomorium destructor, Paratrechina longicornis, Solenopsis geminata, Solenopsis richteri, Tapinoma melanocephalum, Wasmannia auropunctata) 5) Ranking of high risk species: ranking of the eight highest risk ant species in terms of the risks of entry, establishment, spread, and detrimental consequences.
NB. The red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta) is considered to be the worst ant pest in the world. However, Solenopsis invicta was specifically excluded from consideration in this risk assessment as this species has already been subject to detailed consideration by Biosecurity New Zealand
(This invasive ant pest risk assessment was funded by Biosecurity New Zealand and Foundation for Research, Science and Technology. Undertaken by Landcare Research in collaboration with Victoria University of Wellington and Otago Museum)
Available from: http://www.landcareresearch.co.nz/research/biocons/invertebrates/Ants/ant_pest_risk.asp [Accessed 20 May 2007]
Holway, D.A., Lach, L., Suarez, A.V., Tsutsui, N.D. and Case, T.J. 2002. The Causes and Consequences of Ant Invasions, Annu. Rev. Ecol. Syst. 33: 181-233.
IUCN/SSC Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG)., 2010. A Compilation of Information Sources for Conservation Managers.
Summary: This compilation of information sources can be sorted on keywords for example: Baits & Lures, Non Target Species, Eradication, Monitoring, Risk Assessment, Weeds, Herbicides etc. This compilation is at present in Excel format, this will be web-enabled as a searchable database shortly. This version of the database has been developed by the IUCN SSC ISSG as part of an Overseas Territories Environmental Programme funded project XOT603 in partnership with the Cayman Islands Government - Department of Environment. The compilation is a work under progress, the ISSG will manage, maintain and enhance the database with current and newly published information, reports, journal articles etc.
McGlynn, T.P. 1999. The Worldwide Transfer of Ants: Geographical Distribution and Ecological Invasions, Journal of Biogeography 26(3): 535-548.
National Agricultural Pest Information System: Imported Fire Ant.
Summary: Fire Ants (various spp.) in the United States
Ness, J.H and Bronstein, J.L. 2004. The Effects of Invasive Ants on Prospective ant Mutualists, Biological Invasions 6: 445-461.
Pacific Ant Prevention Programme, March 2004. Pacific Invasive Ant Group (PIAG) on behalf of the IUCN/SSC Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG).
Summary: A proposal prepared for the Pacific Plant Protection Organisation and Regional Technical Meeting For Plant Protection. This plan aims to prevent the red imported fire ant and other invasive ant species with economic, environmental and/or social impacts, entering and establishing in or spreading between (or within) countries of the Pacific Region.
Pascoe, A. 2001. Turning up the heat on fire ants. In Issue 32 (15 December 2001) of Biosecurity. Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. NZ.
Summary: Available from: http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/publications/biosecurity-magazine/biosecurity-32.pdf
Red Imported Fire Ants in Australia.
Summary: Queensland eradication program.
Sarnat, E. M. (December 4, 2008) PIAkey: Identification guide to ants of the Pacific Islands, Edition 2.0, Lucid v. 3.4. USDA/APHIS/PPQ Center for Plant Health Science and Technology and University of California � Davis.
Summary: PIAkey (Pacific Invasive Ant key) is an electronic guide designed to assist users identify invasive ant species commonly encountered in the Pacific Island region. The guide covers four subfamilies, 20 genera and 44 species.
The primary tool offered by PIAkey is an interactive key designed using Lucid3 software. In addition to being fully illustrated, the Lucid key allows users to enter at multiple character points, skip unknown characters, and find the most efficient path for identifying the available taxa. Each species is linked to its own web page. These species pages, or factsheets, are linked to an illustrated glossary of morphological terms, and include the following seven sections: 1) Overview of the species; 2) Diagnostic chart illustrating a unique combination of identification characters; 3) Comparison chart illustrating differences among species of similar appearance; 4) Video clip of the species behavior at food baits (where available); 5) Image gallery that includes original specimen images and live images (where available); 6) Nomenclature section detailing the taxonomic history of the species, and 7) Links and references section for additional literature and online resources.
Available from: http://www.lucidcentral.org/keys/v3/PIAkey/index.html [Accessed 17 December 2008]
Stanley, M. C. 2004. Review of the efficacy of baits used for ant control and eradication. Landcare Research Contract Report: LC0405/044. Prepared for: Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.
Summary: Available from: http://www.landcareresearch.co.nz/research/biocons/invertebrates/ants/BaitEfficacyReport.pdf [Accessed 10 December 2005]
Texas A&M University: Red Imported Fire Ants.
Summary: Red imported fire ant research.
The Invasive Species Initiative, 2005. The Nature Conservancy Solenopsis invicta, S. richteri (Red Imported Fire Ants)
Summary: Avaiable from: http://tncweeds.ucdavis.edu/esadocs/soleinvi.html [Accessed 2 May 2005]
Tunnel Vision: RIFA newsletters
Summary: Tunnel Vision is the quarterly newsletter produced by the Cooperative Extension Service, University of Arkansas. The purpose of the newsletter is to inform people about the red imported fire ant and what is being done throughout the U.S. on this pest insect.
Varnham, K. 2006. Non-native species in UK Overseas Territories: a review. JNCC Report 372. Peterborough: United Kingdom.
Summary: This database compiles information on alien species from British Overseas Territories.
Available from: http://www.jncc.gov.uk/page-3660 [Accessed 10 November 2009]
Vogt, J.T. & Wallet, B. (2008). Feasibility of using template-based and object-based automated detection methods for quantifying black and hybrid imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta and S. Invictaxrichteri) mounds in aerial digital imagery. The Rangeland Journal 30: 291-295.
Zhong Xifa. 2006. Prevention Activities in Ganzhou City against Fire Ant Invasion. Jiangxi Province Agriculture information website. ( Original Chinese language document ) ( English translation of original document by Jia Ren, 2006 )
Summary: This source provides information about prevention activities against red fire ants in Ganzhou, a city in the Jiangxi province of China.
General information
Chen, J., Cantrell, C.L., Duke, S.O. & Allen, M.L. (2008). Repellency of Callicarpenal and Intermedeol Against Workers of Imported Fire Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Journal of Economic Entomology 101(2): 265-271.
Summary:
CONABIO. 2008. Sistema de informaci�n sobre especies invasoras en M�xico. Especies invasoras - Insectos. Comisi�n Nacional para el Conocimiento y Uso de la Biodiversidad. Fecha de acceso.
Summary: English:
The species list sheet for the Mexican information system on invasive species currently provides information related to Scientific names, family, group and common names, as well as habitat, status of invasion in Mexico, pathways of introduction and links to other specialised websites. Some of the higher risk species already have a direct link to the alert page. It is important to notice that these lists are constantly being updated, please refer to the main page (http://www.conabio.gob.mx/invasoras/index.php/Portada), under the section Novedades for information on updates.
Invasive species - insects is available from: http://www.conabio.gob.mx/invasoras/index.php/Especies_invasoras_-_Insectos [Accessed 30 July 2008]
Spanish:
La lista de especies del Sistema de informaci�n sobre especies invasoras de m�xico cuenta actualmente con informaci�n aceca de nombre cient�fico, familia, grupo y nombre com�n, as� como h�bitat, estado de la invasi�n en M�xico, rutas de introducci�n y ligas a otros sitios especializados. Algunas de las especies de mayor riesgo ya tienen una liga directa a la p�gina de alertas. Es importante resaltar que estas listas se encuentran en constante proceso de actualizaci�n, por favor consulte la portada (http://www.conabio.gob.mx/invasoras/index.php/Portada), en la secci�n novedades, para conocer los cambios.
Especies invasoras - Insectos is available from: http://www.conabio.gob.mx/invasoras/index.php/Especies_invasoras_-_Insectos [Accessed 30 July 2008]
DeFauw, S. L., Vogt, J.T. & Boykin, D. L. (2008). Imported Fire Ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) Bioturbationand Its Influences on Soils and Turfgrass in a Sod Production Agroecosystem. Journal of Entomological Science 43(1): 121-127.
Gotelli, N. J. and Arnett, A. E. 2000. Biogeographic effects of red fire ant invasion. Ecology Letters 3: 257-261.
Summary: Effects of red fire ant invasion on native ant fauna across a 2000km transect.
Hashimoto, Y. & Valles, S. M. (2008). Infection characteristics of Solenopsis invicta virus 2 in the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta. Journal of Invertebrate Pathology 99: 136-140.
Hawaiian Biological Survey: Red Imported Fire Ants.
Summary: Modelling potential distributions of red imported fire ant on Hawai i.
Hawaiian Ecosystems At Risk (HEAR): Red Imported Fire Ants.
Summary: General information, fact sheets and links on red imported fire ants.
Heraty, J. M. 1994. Biology and importance of two eucharitid parasites of Wasmannia and Solenopsis. In Williams, D. F. (ed.) Exotic ants: Biology, impact, and control of introduced species, Westview Press, Boulder, CO.: 104-120.
ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System), 2005. Online Database Solenopsis invicta
Summary: An online database that provides taxonomic information, common names, synonyms and geographical jurisdiction of a species. In addition links are provided to retrieve biological records and collection information from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) Data Portal and bioscience articles from BioOne journals.
Available from: http://www.cbif.gc.ca/pls/itisca/taxastep?king=every&p_action=containing&taxa=Solenopsis+invicta&p_format=&p_ifx=plglt&p_lang= [Accessed March 2005]
Morrison, L. W. 2002. Long-term impacts of an arthropod-community invasion by the imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta. Ecology 83(8): 2337-2345.
Summary: Long term follow-up (1999) to one of the most in-depth and well-known studies to document the impact of the imported red fire ant on the native ant and arthropod fauna of a biological field reserve in central Texas (USA) during the initial invasion in the late 1980s.
Morrison, L. W. and Gilbert, L. E. 1998. Parasitoid-host relationships when host size varies: the case of Pseudacteon flies and Solenopsis fire ants. Ecological Entomology 23(4): 409�416.
Na, Julie P.S. & C.Y. Lee., 2001. Identification key to common urban pest ants in Malaysia. Tropical Biomedicine 18(1): 1-17 (2001)
Summary: Available from: http://idisk.mac.com/chowyang/Public/037.pdf [Accessed 24 October 2008]
Sokolova, Y.Y. & Fuxa, J.R. (2008). Biology and life-cycle of the microsporidium Kneallhazia solenopsae Knell Allan Hazard 1977 gen. n., comb. n., from the fire ant Solenopsis invicta. Parasitology 135: 903-929.
Species Profile: Red Imported Fire Ants.
Summary: Numerous links to information on red imported fire ants including management information.
Vanderwoude, C. and Numbuk, S. 2006. Preliminary Report on Infestation of Little Fire Ant (Wasmannia auropunctata) at Kreer Heights, Wewak. AntiAnts.
Varone, L. & Briano, J. 2009. Bionomics of Orasema simplex (Hymenoptera: Eucharitidae), a parasitoid of Solenopsis fire ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in Argentina. Biological Control 48: 204�209.
Wild, A.L. (2007). A catalogue of the ants of Paraguay (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Zootaxa 1622: 1�55.
Contact
The following 9 contacts offer information an advice on Solenopsis invicta
Brown,
Charles L.
Solenopsis invicta, USA: regulatory/quarantine
Organization:
United States Department of Agriculture, APHIS, PPQ
Address:
USDA, APHIS, PPQ, 4700 River Road Unit 134, Riverdale, MD 20737 USA
Phone:
+1 301 7344838
Fax:
+1 301 7348584
Callcott,
Anne-Marie
Solenopsis invicta, USA: regulatory/quarantine
Organization:
United States Department of Agriculture, APHIS, PPQ
Address:
USDA, APHIS, PPQ, CPHST, IFA, 3505 25th Ave., Bldg. 16, Gulfport, MS 39501 USA
Phone:
+1 228 8223100
Fax:
+1 228 8223102
Davis,
Peter
Linepithema humile, Technomyrmex albipes, Ochetellus glaber, Monomorium destructor, Pheidole megacephala, Solenopsis invicta, Australia
Organization:
Western Australia Department of Agriculture
Address:
Entomology, Department of Agriculture, 3 Baron-Hay Court, South Perth, Western Australia, Australia, 6151
Phone:
+61 8 93683232
Fax:
+61 8 94742405
Keller,
Laurent
Linepithema humile, Solenopsis invicta, Formica exsecta,
Organization:
University of Lausanne
Address:
University of Lausanne, Institute of Ecology, Batiment de Biologie, 1015 Lausanne SWITZERLAND
Phone:
+41 21 6924173
Fax:
+41 21 6924105
McGlynn,
Terrence
Wasmannia auropunctata, Linepithema humile, Solenopsis invicta, and invasive ants in general, USA, Costa Rica
Organization:
University of San Diego, Department of Biology
Address:
5998 Alcala Park, San Diego, CA 92110 USA
Phone:
+1 619 2607539
Fax:
+1 619 2606804
O Connor,
Simon
Simon has previously coordinated New Zealand s national invasive ant programme which included responding to incursions and development and implementation of the surveillance programme. He is currently employed by the Secretariat of the Pacific Community to implement the preliminary stages of the Pacific Ant Prevention Programme. Extensive surveillance through the Pacific islands, project work around specific ant problems and public awareness building has been the main focus of his current role
Organization:
Coordinator, Pacific Ant Prevention Programme Secretariat of the Pacific Community
Address:
C/- MAF PO Box 2526 Wellington New Zealand
Phone:
64 4 8190539
Fax:
64 4 8190736
Porter,
Sanford D.
Fire Ant Biology, Ecology, Behavior, and Biocontrol
Organization:
USDA-ARS, CMAVE
Address:
P.O. Box 14565, Gainesville, FL 32604
Phone:
+1 352 3745914
Fax:
+1 352 3745818
Vanderwoude,
Cas
Organization:
General Manager, Flybusters AntiAnts
Address:
Box 100-287 NSMC Auckland New Zealand
Phone:
+64 9 486 4411
Fax:
+64 27 270 1455
VanGelder,
Ellen
Linepithema humile, Solenopsis invicta, USA: Hawaii
Organization:
USGS-BRD
Address:
Haleakala Field Station, PO Box 369, Makawao, HI 96768 USA
Phone:
+1 808 5724472
Fax:
Solenopsis invicta
rote importierte Feuerameise, red imported fire ant (RIFA), fourmi de feu
Date assessed
Year published
Eicat category
Justification for EICAT assessment
Confidence rating
Mechanism(s) of maximum impact
Countries of most severe impact
Description of impacts
Assessor
Contributors
Reviewers
Recommended citation
(2024). Solenopsis invicta. IUCN Environmental Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (EICAT).