Native ant responses to Solenopsis invicta buren reduction using broadcast baits

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Entomology
• Invasive Species Management

Background:

• Invasive Solenopsis invicta (fire ants) disrupt arthropod community structure and diversity.
• Poison baits are primary tools for fire ant control, but their impact on native ants is poorly understood.
• Conserving native ants is crucial for integrated pest management and biological control of invasive species.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of insect growth regulator baits (s-methoprene) on native ant species.
• To determine native ant responses to reduced Solenopsis invicta densities.
• To assess the conservation potential of bait treatments for native ant assemblages.

Main Methods:

• Pilot study conducted in Mumford, TX, with two treatments: bait (s-methoprene) and control.
• Randomized block design with four replicates (1.33-ha blocks).
• Ant species sampled using pitfall traps, baited vials, manual collections, and nest surveys.

Main Results:

• Sixteen ant species were identified across treatments.
• Bait treatment significantly reduced Solenopsis invicta densities.
• Native ant species, particularly Dorymyrmex flavus, significantly increased in density post-treatment, dominating the assemblage for over two years.

Conclusions:

• Insect growth regulator bait application for Solenopsis invicta management can benefit native ant species.
• Reduced invasive ant pressure allows native species, like Dorymyrmex flavus, to increase in abundance.
• This management approach offers a temporary but beneficial shift in ant assemblage diversity, supporting native populations.