Particle Size and Bait Preference of the Red Imported Fire Ant, Solenopsis invicta (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
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abstract
One of the most effective methods for achieving control of red imported fire ants, Solenopsis invicta Buren is through the application of broadcast baits. Multiple factors contribute to bait efficacy, one of which is particle size. Bait mass removed, the number of particles removed, and the number of ants present at dishes containing bait of a specific particle size were recorded and used to determine bait and particle size preference of foraging S. invicta. Additionally, head capsule widths of foraging ants were measured and compared to particle size removed. The mean mass of bait removed by foraging ants was significantly greater (P < 0.05) for 1400-2000 m particles of Select Granular Ant Bait (SGA), but more total particles of bait <710 m were removed. The mean mass of Advance Carpenter Ant Scatter Bait (CAS) removed was significantly less for particles <710 fan, while foragers removed more 710-1000 m particles. Significantly more ants were present at SGA particles 1400-2000 m, while ant counts on CAS were significantly lower for 710-1000 m particles. Mean head capsule width of foraging ants returning with SGA 1400-2000 m particles were significantly wider than those returning with <710 m particles. For CAS, mean head capsule width of ants returning with 1400-2000 m particles were significantly wider than those returning with <710 m or 710-1000 m particles. Implications for control of S. invicta populations are discussed.
