What Are Fire Ants?
Two species of fire ants exist in Florida: red imported fire ants (Solenopsis Invicta) and native fire ants (Solenopsis geminata). The red imported fire ants are much more common than the native version.
Red imported fire ants were accidentally brought to the United States many decades ago from the central part of South America, most notably Brazil. They have become an increasing problem for homeowners ever since. Fire ant colonies in an urban setting often take root under patio slabs, in lawns, under the edges of sidewalks, foundations, concrete driveways, and electrical boxes. They may also find a way inside your home if the fire ant mound is compromised by heavy rain.
Fire ants pose a significant threat to agriculture due to feeding on the root systems of plants, mechanically disabling combine operations (unable to harvest crops), and feeding on young plant growth. Fire ant mounds and their residents also pose a threat to humans and other animals.