Invasive red fire ants found in Perth
An invasive ant species from South America has been found at Fremantle Port in Western Australia.
The red fire ant is considered one of the world's worst invasive ant species because it can form "super colonies" with multiple queens and has a very adverse effect on people's health.
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has destroyed several nests at Fremantle Port and is surveying the area.
"The pest poses a significant threat to the environment, agriculture, the economy, human health and Australia's outdoor lifestyle," Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan said on Thursday.
"We are calling on Fremantle residents and workers to keep an eye out and to report any unfamiliar ants, to help protect WA."
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