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2. I. e. Biological Control of Imported Fire Ants
Teaching Module for Master Gardener Training

3. Biological Control of Fire Ants
Researchers have identified at least 21 species of phorid flies that attack fire ants in South America.
Four species are established in the United States.
Phorid fly emerging
from fire ant head
fly

4. Infectious Protozoa
Disease agent decreases populations in South America
It also is establishing in some states
Fewer than the phorid fly
More effective in multiple queen colonies
Kneallhazia solenopsae

5. Photo courtesy Sanford Porter, USDA ARS
Biological Control
Researchers are always evaluating new biological control agents, such as microsporidians, viruses and nematodes.
Electron micrograph of Solenopsis invicta virus 1 (SINV-1) purified from infected fire ants.
Allomermis, a new species of nematode in fire ants from Argentina
40 nm
Photo courtesy
S. M. Valles, USDA-ARS
Photo courtesy Sanford Porter, USDA ARS

6. Natural Control Native ants can help control fire ants
New fire ant queen under attack by another ant species