Florida Carpenter Ants have evolved to perform amputations to treat infected leg injuries, as they lack antimicrobial glands. Research shows that amputations depend on injury location, with femur injuries receiving prompt amputations, enhancing survival rates. Tibial injuries, however, are better managed with care from nestmates, illustrating the ants' adaptability in colony health management.

New BugBytes episode, "Ant Amputations, Termite Death Zones, and New Cockroach Control Tools with Special Guest Sara Cromwell," is now available online.

The red imported fire ant (RIFA) is a destructive species with a global presence. Researchers studied its response to insecticides to improve control methods. They found that RIFA workers covered surfaces with soil particles to reduce contact with certain insecticides, impacting their effectiveness. This behavior was concentration-dependent, emphasizing the importance of product selection and application methods in ant control.

Tune in to hear "Crafty Ants, Tackling Termites, and Mosquito Control with Special Guest Jamie Ogle," on the new BugBytes podcast.

This research by Hassan et al. investigates the potential of the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae (MA) as a biological control agent against the invasive red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta). Results indicate MA significantly impacts the ants' foraging behavior, movement, and biochemical responses, warranting further exploration of its ecological application.

This course is designed to provide the basic information needed to do an IPM service for common general household pests such as cockroaches, rats, ants, occasional invaders, mosquitoes, and filth flies.