What type of material can fire ants be transported in?
on-ground, and covered, either on: concrete or bitumen (no cracks) a barrier that cannot be penetrated by fire ants (e.g. 200 micron unperforated plastic sheeting) compacted ground (other than sand) that has been treated with an appropriate chemical product before storage.
How are fire ants transported?
Imported fire ants spread naturally during their mating flights. These ants can be carried for long distances as the vehicles move from place to place. Ants can also be moved with nursery stock or grass sod and in soil on soil-moving equipment.
How do you stop fire ants from spreading?
Fire ants can be controlled but not eliminated by using granular baits and broadcast insecticides. “Poisonous baits are pretty efficient,” Layton said. “Ants carry them back to their mound and kill the queen.
What is a fire ant biosecurity zone?
If you move materials that may carry fire ants, it is important that you familiarise yourself with the changes in fire ant movement controls. Fire ant biosecurity zones are in place in areas of Queensland to restrict the movement of materials that could spread fire ants.
What is the lifespan of a fire ant?
queens have lived for as long as seven years, but on average live approximately three years. Worker ants’ life span is much shorter. Temperature impacts their lives – higher temperatures mean shorter lives. In general, fire ant workers live four to six weeks.
Does anything eat fire ants?
Because there are no natural fire ant predators in North America, scientists are exploring the possibility of introducing a species of phorid fly to control fire ant colonies. This South American parasite, a member of the genus Apocephalus, is also known as the ant-decapitator fly.
Are harvester ants worse than fire ants?
Harvester ant stings can cause painful sores and possible allergic reactions in people and animals. The red harvester ant native to the arid Southwest is particularly poisonous. These are often confused with fire ants, but the red harvester ant is not related to the fire ant and, in fact, their sting is more venomous.
How do I get rid of fire ants in my yard naturally?
Here are the effective ways that you can use to kill fire ants without chemicals:
- Dish soap/liquid and water: Make a solution of one part of dish soap and two parts of water.
- White vinegar and water: Mix a 50-50 solution of vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray the solution on the ants.
What do you do if you find a fire ant?
In New South Wales, call the Department of Primary Industries on 1800 084 881. In Victoria, call the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning on 13 61 86.
How do I report fire ants in Qld?
Phone Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or report fire ants online. The person answering will ask you questions to work out the type of ant you have found and whether an immediate visit to your property is needed. Contact your nearest Housing Service Centre and notify us of the problem.
What do you need to train for fire ants in Queensland?
For the online training you need a device with web capabilities (computer, tablet, smart phone etc.) and a stable internet connection. Biosecurity Queensland is collecting your personal information for the purpose of eradicating fire ants and electric ants, category 1 restricted matter under the Biosecurity Act 2014.
How to move soil outside the fire ant zone?
To move soil from either of the fire ant biosecurity zones to a place outside the zones, you must request a biosecurity instrument permit (BIP) online or phone 13 25 23. Refer to the table below for restrictions on the movement of soil between and outside of the fire ant biosecurity zones.
How often do fire ant training sessions take place?
General awareness training sessions are held fortnightly on Wednesdays. One fire ant treatment training session is held each month. Sessions are limited to a maximum of 40 attendees, so bookings are essential. Private group sessions are available for groups of 25 people or more.
Why are fire ants considered a biosecurity risk?
Soil from fire ant biosecurity zones is considered high risk for the spread of fire ants. Under the Biosecurity Act 2014 everyone has a general biosecurity obligation (GBO) to take all reasonable steps to ensure they do not spread fire ants.
