These ants, though small, represent a growing problem in Alabama and many other states.
The Solenopsis invicta, more commonly known as the red imported fire ant, has posed a severe threat to Alabama, its surrounding states and the entire southern half of the United States since the early 1900s. The U.S. is home to a multitude of docile ant species, though the southern states house several particular variants that are well-known for problematic behavior. The red imported fire ant, while smaller than other fire ants, is not only the most aggressive, but also the most adaptable, surviving harsh climate changes. Black imported fire ants and native fire ants, while dangerous, are far less of a problem.
Imported Fire Ants
Having originated in South America, red and black imported fire ants first began entering the United States through the port of Mobile, Alabama, primarily via ships carrying cargo from Brazil. Although not an immediate danger, the imported fire ant quickly made a name for itself in the South during the late 1930s and early 1940s. When new housing during this period became more prevalent, builders unknowingly transported supplies including wood and dirt containing fire ants throughout the country. The black fire ant, or Solenopsis richteri, heavily displaced by its red counterpart, now only dwells in several specific areas of Alabama, Mississippi and Tennessee. The red imported fire ant, known for its extreme aggressiveness toward even its own species, is smaller than the black imported fire ant. It has a distinct red color and is far more common than all other fire ant variants. It is also to blame for the majority of Alabama and many other states' ant-related problems.
Native Fire Ants
The two species of ants native to Alabama and its surrounding states are the tropical fire ant, or Solenopsis geminata, and the southern fire ant, or Solenopsis xyloni. Native fire ants have less painful stings, lower aggression and a smaller population than red imported fire ants. Nevertheless, native fire ants are often mistaken for their imported counterparts due to their similarities in appearance and behavior. Even though the native fire ant species are less hostile and damage-inflicting, you must use caution when encountering them, as they are likely to attack when provoked and can cause wounds similar to those given by red imported fire ants.
A Hazardous Species
A fire ant mound can pose a severe threat to anyone close enough to disturb its inhabitants.
Well-preceded by their reputation among Southerners as a dangerous nuisance to everything around them, fire ants -- particularly red imported -- are the cause of attacks on humans, home invasion and animal deaths throughout their U.S. origin of Alabama and at least 10 other southern states. Populations of red imported fire ants have appeared even in California and Kansas, demonstrating that although Alabamans are taking steps to control their spreading, this species of ant could potentially make its way deeper into U.S. territory. Given the fire ants' hazardous reputation and tendency to spread far and wide, many states have erected programs to aid in the control of fire ants, particularly the red imported variant, by educating their citizens on the potential threat they represent and go about handling it on an individual level.
Signs of a Threat
Although fire ants are small and numerous, you can easily avoid them if you are cautious when treading through potentially dangerous areas. The most prevalent signs of a fire ant infestation are the large mounds where their colonies dwell. These protruding, cylindrical masses of hardened earth are home to large numbers of fire ants. You should regard these mounds as danger zones, as passers-by may be attacked by their hostile inhabitants. Fire ants prefer to build their mounds in moist, warm areas but may also inhabit other objects, such as fallen trees. If you spot fire ants in or around your home, the best bet for eradication is to call a professional exterminator. Although do-it-yourself methods for removing these insects exist, using the wrong chemicals or insufficient caution could result in damage to you, your family, your pets or your home.
Attacks and Stings
When a fire ant colony is disturbed, the insects respond viciously with bites and venomous stings that, while entirely survivable by the average adult, may endanger the lives of children and animals. The stings of a fire ant are certain to leave painful, burning wounds that can become infected if not treated properly. More severe symptoms of a fire ant bite may include blisters, vomiting and nausea -- especially for those who are allergic. If stung, simply treat the wound as you would any other and avoid causing further damage. If you notice signs of an infection or allergic reaction, contact your local hospital immediately, as the reactions could be fatal. Death via fire ants, while rare, is possible.
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