Invasive red fire ants discovered in Enfield logistics hub, Sydney
Multiple Australian outlets report that a nest of invasive red fire ants, considered one of the world’s most harmful pests, was found in a logistics facility in Enfield, in Sydney’s inner west. Authorities are investigating the site and assessing containment measures to prevent spread.
First reported 1 hour ago · latest update 1 hour ago
The Invasive Species Council describes fire ants as one of the world’s worst super-pests, which if established and spread around Australia would cost the economy up to $2 billion a year.
Focus will now turn to inspecting and treating properties within a 500-metre radius of the logistics centre, and searching for any nests in a two-kilometre radius.
A NSW government statement said local businesses that deal in soil, turf, building materials or vegetation will be contacted to work through measures to identify and treat any fire ant incursion while minimising disruption.
“It’s important to note that no further ants have been found, but we are focused on making sure any potential spread is identified and eradicated quickly,” Agriculture Minister Tara Moriarty said.
“While fire ants are one of the world’s most invasive species, they can and have been successfully eradicated in NSW.”
Citations · 2 reports from 2 outlets
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Invasive deadly red fire ants found in Sydney’s inner west
A nest of invasive fire ants, one of the world’s worst pests, was found in a logistics hub in Enfield.
1 hour ago · Jessica McSweeneyInvasive deadly red fire ants found in Sydney’s inner west
A nest of invasive fire ants, one of the world’s worst pests, was found in a logistics hub in Enfield.
1 hour ago · Jessica McSweeney