The exotic pest has not been found in Western Australia, but an infestation in Queensland has prompted nationwide surveillance.

The department’s biosecurity officers will be searching garden nurseries, caravan parks, ports and high traffic tourist areas for any signs of the aggressive ants.

Biosecurity officer Brian Smith said early detection was the key to stopping Red Imported Fire Ants from establishing elsewhere.

He said a major effort was currently underway in Queensland to eradicate the infestations.

“The ants are primarily urban pests, but can also have a significant impact on agriculture, damaging cultivated tree seedlings and reticulation systems as well as affecting animals in intensive production systems,” Mr Smith said.

Mr Smith said Red Imported Fire Ants were small golden to reddish brown ants with darker abdomens, varying in size from 2-6mm.

They looked similar to many common native ants found in WA, but unlike native ants have a fiery sting that causes the skin to blister.

Any suspicious samples should be sent to the Department of Agriculture and Food at Locked Bag 4, Bentley Delivery Centre WA, 6983. Caution should be taken while collecting ants.

“An easy method for collecting samples is to stick the specimen on a piece of clear sticky tape and place in the freezer for 24 hours before forwarding to the department,” Mr Smith said.

* Further information and photographs are available in Gardennote 355/2009 on the Department of Agriculture and Food website www.agric.wa.gov.a u or contact the Pest and Disease Information Service on on freecall 1800 084 881.