Fire Ants in the Americas

Fire ants in the Americas, primarily the red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta), are aggressive, reddish-brown insects known for their painful stings and rapid movement. Native to South America, they have spread through the continent and into the U.S., causing ecological and economic impacts by damaging crops, wildlife, and electrical equipment. Fire ants build large, underground colonies with multiple queens, making them resilient and difficult to control. They are social insects that communicate through chemical signals, and their stings can pose health risks, especially to sensitive individuals. Efforts focus on managing their populations to reduce their harmful effects.