Fire Ant
Able to inflict especially painful bits and stings.
- Common Name: Fire Ant
- Scentific Name: Solenopsis spp.
- Class/Order/Family: Insecta/Hymenoptera/Formicidea
- Metamorphosis: Complete
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Size
Workers polymorphic, about 1/16-1/4" long. Queens average 1/4".
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Color
Head and thorax yellowish red and abdomen black, reproductives darker.
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Biology
Typical mounds are rounded , up to 18" high and 24+" in diameter, with several tunnels just under the surface extending out several feet.
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Habit
Typically ground-nesting ants. Sometimes nest in the wood or masonry of buildings, especially in areas near the soil or warmth.