The Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) has issued an infestation alert for little fire ants (Wasmannia auropunctata) in a few areas of Fiji.
According to the authority, the current infestation includes Beqa Island, parts of Sigatoka, areas within Namosi Province and Leleuvia Island.
“This ant is a uniform yellow, red to light brown in colour and is 1.5mm in length,” said an authority statement.
“They do not build mounded dirt nests, instead they nest in various habitats including trees, around potted plants and on irrigation lines and in electrical boxes.”
The authority said the ants have a painful sting that causes welts that last for weeks in humans. It said the ants also cause infestation in fields and farms, damage crops and sting workers.
“They can infest houses, beds, furniture and may also sting pets and farm animals,” the statement added.
BAF is urging the public to be vigilant and report any unusual ant activities. “Your co-operation is crucial in mitigating the impact of the little fire ant infestation,” said BAF statement.
