Solenopsis invicta

These ants are highly social and form large colonies, with multiple queens in some cases, and are known for their aggressive defense of their nests. Fire ants swarm and attack in unison when provoked, using their stingers to inject venom that causes intense pain and sometimes allergic reactions in humans and animals.

Colonies are established by a single queen or multiple queens, and the queen lays eggs that hatch into workers, drones, and new queens. Reproductive ants (winged males and females) leave the colony during a mass mating event called the nuptial flight, after which fertilized queens start new colonies.

Red Imported Fire Ants are small, measuring about 1/8 to 1/4 inch (3-6 mm) in length, with a reddish-brown body and dark brown gaster (the rear part of the abdomen). Their stingers are capable of injecting venom that causes a burning sensation, leading to the common name "fire ants."

Originally from South America, these ants were first introduced to the southeastern United States in the 1930s, where they rapidly spread, causing extensive damage to crops, livestock, and ecosystems. Their expansion has been aided by global trade, leading to their presence in many parts of the world today.

Red Imported Fire Ants are classified as an invasive species and are widespread across much of the southeastern U.S., as well as parts of Australia, China, and other regions. Efforts to control their populations include chemical treatments, biological controls, and public education on how to prevent their spread.