Red imported fire ant

Red imported fire ant has not been detected in the ACT.

About the pest

Red imported fire ant (RIFA) is one of the worst invasive species due to their extensive damage to ecological and agricultural systems. It is recognised as a significant pest under the National Environmental Biosecurity Response Agreement (NEBRA).

They are omnivores, preying on animals and eating plants and honeydew. They are highly aggressive, with a venomous sting used to kill their prey and defend their nest.

Why they are a problem

Red imported fire ants can:

• harm our environment and industries such as farming
• make outdoor activities like barbeques and picnics unsafe
• sting people, pets and livestock, causing pain and allergic reactions
• damage natural areas, gardens and crops

They are classed as category 1 restricted matter under the National Environmental Biosecurity Response Agreement.

What to look for

Fire ants look similar to ordinary house or garden ants. Fire ants are copper brown in colour, with a darker abdomen. They range in size from 2 to 6 mm long and are very aggressive. Their nests look like dome-shaped mounds up to 40 cm high with no obvious entry points. A single nest can contain ants of many different sizes. This video shows you how to identify fire ants.

Fire ants can survive in most climates and invade both indoor and outdoor areas.

How it spreads

Fire ants can move quickly and easily.

• Flying ants can travel up to 5 kilometres
• They can move through soil, build tunnels, and even float on water after floods or heavy rain
• They may be found on soil, mulch, fertiliser or plant material
• They can also be found on goods, vehicles and shipping containers.

Report sightings