Ants are everywhere, in the backyard, on the sidewalk, and even in some people’s homes. Recently, a large mound popped up in the school courtyard. The ants seen everywhere are actually called fire ants, the ones that build massive dirt mounds and are always tempting someone to step on it. But fire ants were never supposed to be in America in the first place.
Fire ants, scientifically known as Solenopsis invicta, are actually an invasive species in the United States, Australia, New Zealand, large numbers of Asian and Caribbean countries and even Europe. Originally from South America, cargo ships from Alabama in the 1930s accidentally brought these stowaway insects to other countries around the world.
Junior Elliot Barnes said, “We really need to watch out because they could get somebody who is allergic and possibly kill them. There’s no way to get away from them because they’re everywhere.”
In the fire ants native habitat, many predators seek these insects for a healthy meal such as armadillos, antlions, spiders, birds, and horned lizards. This gives the fire ants their aggressive behavior to protect the colony and their queen. In America, fire ants have no natural predators to keep their numbers down, and with an aggressive appetite and perfect environment, the fire ants are able to dominate the food chain and multiply their numbers exponentially.
Senior Miazion Warren said, “I think it’s really unfortunate. Personally I’ve never enjoyed the presence of any fire ants, knowing that they are an invasive species can really harm other insect species that are supposed to be here.”
These ants have even eliminated other ant species causing scientists to declare them endangered or extinct, but there are ways to combat fire ants. It is not a permanent solution but using straight white vinegar on top of the mound or in places the ants walk can kill many of them.
There are many other ways to get rid of fire ants, whether it’s permanent or for a short period of time. Calling an exterminator would be the best course of action because getting rid of these invasive species can help the environment and many animals.
