Omnivorous Insect Poses a Risk to Humans, Animals, and the Nursery Industry

By: Dovid Davis

When the weather turns hot the meat eating Red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta, is found in mid-Atlantic states such as MarylandThe fire ant was first found in the Maryland area in 1986As with many invasive species, the Maryland Department of Agriculture relies on reports from residents to detect new infestations.
The fire ant originates from South America, andprobably first came to North America as an unwanted passenger on cargo ships coming into the port of Mobile, Alabama, in the late 1930’s. Since then, the ant has slowly spread north, both by natural migratory movement and through human activity, such as the interstate transport of nursery stock and other agricultural commodities. At this time, 320 million acres of the southern United States are generally infested, requiring the Federal quarantine in 13 states and Puerto Rico.
This ant is small, but makes up for its diminutive stature with aggressive behavior when defending its nest and a nasty sting. Fire ants are omnivorous, attacking and from time to time killing newborn domestic animals as well as pets and wildlife. It also feeds on buds and fruits of almost any plant.
In the 13 southern states where it is present, the ant has had a severe impact on ground nesting animals ranging from other insects to birds and mammals. In agriculture, fire ants have damaged numerous cultivated plants including corn, sorghum and soybeans.
In urban areas, infestations of the imported fire ant have an impact on outdoor activities, threatening small children, those allergic to insect venom, and the elderly. A single fire ant will sting multiple times, resulting in a painful burning sensation (thus the name ‘fire’ ant). This is then followed by the formation of white blisters or pustules. These blisters can become infected if not cared for properly

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