Specialized detection dogs have found new nests of fire ants at five mine sites in central Queensland’s Bowen Basin. The discovery, announced on August 15, 2023, follows the pest’s first detection outside the south-east area, over 150 kilometers inland from Mackay, just six weeks earlier. The National Fire Ant Eradication Program (NFAEP) reported that the ants likely arrived in pallets of bricks stored on soil and transported over 800 kilometers from south-east Queensland.
The surveillance took place between August 12 and 14, with confirmation of the nests on the following Monday. Detection dogs worked extensively at various mine sites in the region, enabling the identification of the new nests. According to Tom Roberts, operations director of the NFAEP, the insects were discovered after the bricks were relocated to different mines. “At this point, we believe we’ve eliminated all known risks, and we’re working with each mine site to ensure they have all the relevant information regarding identification,” he stated.
Location and Response
The NFAEP has identified the new fire ant nests in the Central Highlands and Isaac Council regions but has not disclosed the names of the mines involved. The nests were eliminated using a technique called “direct nest injection,” complemented by broadscale treatment of the surrounding areas to prevent further spread.
Concerns about the proliferation of this invasive species have prompted warnings from the Invasive Species Council. They emphasize that if fire ants manage to infiltrate shipments from one area within their established zone, they can rapidly spread across various parts of Australia. “This situation reinforces what we have known for some time,” a spokesperson from the council noted.
As fire ants continue to spread in south-east Queensland, biological control experts highlight the potential impact of individual negligence on eradication efforts. Mr. Pianta, an expert in biological control, indicated that central Queensland’s dry climate may support eradication initiatives. “The environment does not provide abundant food resources for the fire ants,” he explained. “Evidence suggests that these nests have only recently appeared and likely haven’t spread locally, making eradication feasible.”
Fire ants were initially detected in Brisbane in 2001, with ongoing eradication efforts concentrated in the south-east region. In early July 2023, a fire ant nest was found in central Queensland for the first time and was destroyed by NFAEP officers on July 9. Follow-up aerial treatments utilizing drones commenced on July 24, and a containment area was established around the detection site. The NFAEP stated that surveillance of the area will continue for several years to monitor any potential resurgence.
The ongoing efforts to manage and eradicate fire ants in Australia highlight the challenges posed by invasive species. With continued vigilance and response strategies, authorities aim to mitigate the impact of this destructive pest on local ecosystems and industries.
