Solenopsis invicta |
Introduction and purpose
This page is designed to communicate new information about the geographic spread of Solenopsis invicta, the Red Imported Fire Ant. Also, this page will note new populations of other fire ant invaders mistaken for S. invicta.
The Red Imported Fire Ant, often called RIFA, is native to Brazil and has been a significant invader in the southeastern United States for decades. Researchers have amassed an impresive body of information on the biology of fire ants. I direct the reader to review articles and links at the bottom of the page. There are additional links about fire ants in the "links" section of this website.
S. invicta in Australia - as of 22 August 2001
New localities around Brisbane are being located, and they are being controlled by an extensive program. and are hopeful that eradiation may be possible. The official Queensland website contains all of the details and frequent updates.
New Zealand - as of 25 March 2001
The early detection of fire ants in New Zealand probably resulted in elimination. Follow this link to the official New Zealand website.
S. invicta in California - as of 22 August 2001
Because populations are widespread and found in four counties in Southern California, it's not clear whether eradication efforts will be successful. Distribution maps and action plants are outlined at the official CDFA site.
A tiny bibliography and webography on S. invicta
A review of basic biology of fire ants, every academic library probably carries this journal: Tschinkel, W.R. 1998. The reproductive biology of fire ant societies. Bioscience 48: 593-605.
A review of the fire ant invasion in North America: Vinson, S.B. 1997. Invasion of the Red Imported Fire ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae): Spread, Biology, and Impact. American Entomologist 1997: 23-39.
Provides many links about fire ants: USA InvasiveSpecies.gov Profile of S. invicta
Provides an overview: Texas Fire ant program website hosted by Texas A&M
updated: 22 August 2001 Page author: Terry McGlynn