08-24-2013, 05:42 AM
There are actually quite a few different species of foreign ants in Hawaii and on Hawai'i island. The worst by far is Wasmannia auropunctata (Little fireant or the Electric ant).
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wasmannia
In order to treat them effectively you really need to know which one you are dealing with because the life cycles and food preferences are very different.
Since you pay taxes you are eligible for free advice from the County Extension agency. I would recommend the one on Komohana in Hilo (by Imiloa museum) Take some samples with you and ask for verification. I like to cover them with clear tape then fold it over on them.
If you want to read more about little fireants there is a great group of researchers here in Hilo with a very informative website:
http://www.littlefireants.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wasmannia
In order to treat them effectively you really need to know which one you are dealing with because the life cycles and food preferences are very different.
Since you pay taxes you are eligible for free advice from the County Extension agency. I would recommend the one on Komohana in Hilo (by Imiloa museum) Take some samples with you and ask for verification. I like to cover them with clear tape then fold it over on them.
If you want to read more about little fireants there is a great group of researchers here in Hilo with a very informative website:
http://www.littlefireants.com/