Red imported fire ants
The red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta) can be controlled through baits, which workers carry back to the colony, thereby spreading the active ingredient that inhibits the ability of colony’s queen to produce eggs. Standard ant baits, however, break down in moist conditions. A new water-resistant bait shows promise. (Photo credit: USDA APHIS PPQ – Imported Fire Ant Station , USDA APHIS PPQ, Bugwood.org)