Invasive Fire Ants Rafting Amid Flooding in Queensland

Recent flooding in southeast Queensland, exacerbated by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, has led to a concerning spread of invasive red imported fire ants, with experts warning that these pests could infest new areas across Australia. Footage shows large rafts of fire ants floating on floodwaters, a phenomenon that poses a significant risk of spreading the colonies to previously uninfested land. Reece Pianta, an expert from the Invasive Species Council, noted that these rafts are likely carrying ants several kilometers from their original nests, increasing the likelihood of new infestations. Residents have reported being bitten while attempting to clean up their properties, highlighting the immediate hazards posed by the invasive species. The situation raises alarms about the potential economic damage these fire ants could cause, as they are considered one of the worst invasive species in Australia. Experts emphasize the need for vigilance and preventive measures to contain the spread of fire ants following this extreme weather event.