IN THE NEWS Exotic pest

AN INVASIVE African ant, which has the potential to destroy local fauna and impact on farmers, has prompted urgent action from the Department of Primary Industries.

The presence of yellow crazy ants (Anoplolepis gracilipe) in Lismore, NSW, has been confirmed.

The ants are about 8mm long, with long antennae, an erratic gait and a distinct yellow colour.

The species is a highly invasive exotic pest building super colonies that have huge environment consequences, mostly for crops and wildlife.

Crews in Lismore are out doing surveillance and identification operations around the area, targeting yellow crazy ants following the confirmed identification.

The insect typically colonises in moist, shady habitats such as rainforest and agricultural land, particularly agroforestry, and can spread in soil, via contaminated road transport and in sea and air freight on timber, goods, packaging material and pallets.

The yellow crazy ant is listed as one of the world’s 100 worst invasive alien species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Be alert for yellow crazy ants and contact the DPI if you come across the pest. If you catch or see them, take a photo and send it in to the DPI.