‘World’s Worst Superpests’: Millions to Eradicate Devastating Fire Ant

Australia is ramping up its fight against the South American fire ant, which has the potential to do more damage than all of the worst invasive pests combined.

Fire ants are seen in a nest on a cane farm in Norwell, on the Gold Coast, June 15, 2023. AAP Image/Jono Searle

The fight against South American super-pest the fire ant is ramping up with an extra $268 million (US$170 million) being pumped into programs to wipe it out.

The boost for the National Fire Ant Eradication Program over the next four years comes alongside a Senate inquiry examining the nation’s efforts to eradicate the insect.