Origin
Native to Central and South America.

Life Cycle
Omnivores, consuming invertebrates and plant parts, allows W. auropunctata to be flexible in their diet. Little fire ants have a venomous sting that provides them an ability to overtake larger prey.

Distribution
W. auropunctata has been introduced to parts of North America, Africa, and South America as well as islands in the Caribbean and Pacific Ocean.

Control Efforts
Finding and eliminating W. auropunctata colonies with residuals insecticides is suggested for colonies living in and near structures.

https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/56704
http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/urban/ants/little_fire_ant.htm
 

Selected Images

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Invasive Listing Sources

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• Everglades Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area
• Florida Invasive Species Partnership
• Injurious Wildlife in Hawaii

References

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Common Name Reference: Bosik, J. J. Common Names of Insects and Related Organisms 1997. Lanham, MD: Entomological Society of America (ESA), 1997. 232 pp.

Scientific Name Reference: