The invasive pests can injure and kill Australian wildlife,particularly defenceless hatchlings,the federal Environment Department has told a parliamentary inquiry.
Cases of flesh-eating Buruli ulcers are rising and cases have spread from coastal Victoria to NSW. Researchers have finally figured out what spreads the disease.
Experts warn hospitalisations and deaths due to stinging insects are likely to significantly increase if fire ants become endemic in Australia,adding to pressure on the medical system.
The Invasive Species Council says the venomous ants are becoming increasingly difficult to contain.
The red ant nest has been eradicated,and the ants are no longer considered a risk to the community living in the immediate area.
With high-tech microphones and special lenses,the team behind new documentary series A Real Bug’s Life aim to prove just how powerful tiny creatures can be.
Venomous fire ants caught in Queensland floodwaters are forming living rafts that can quickly travel long distances,raising the threat of more incursions into NSW.
Venomous fire ant populations are growing and colonies are forming so-called rafts in floodwater,which help the insects spread their population,as seen in this recent video from the Gold Coast,Queensland.
“Within the developed world,Australia would appear to be at the tail end of the queue to do something about neonic pesticides.”
Vets have warned pet owners to be on the lookout for deadly paralysis ticks amid a surge in animals needing emergency treatment.
Detection dogs,chemical baits and a biosecurity control zone are all being rolled out in Northern NSW to stop fire ants from spreading further into the state.