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Electric ants (Wasmannia auropunctata) in Queensland
The invasive electric ant pest was first discovered in Smithfield in May 2006, and later detected in Kewarra Beach, Trinity Beach, Caravonica and Redlynch in Cairns in Far North Queensland.
Even more recently, the ants have been detected in Yorkeys Knob, Kamerunga, Kuranda, Smithfield, Craiglie/Port Douglas, Freshwater and Bingil Bay near Mission Beach.
Biosecurity Queensland is working with the community to eradicate this pest. It is continuing to undertake treatment rounds and post-treatment surveillance in all infested areas.
There are huge environmental, residential, agricultural and tourism impacts if electric ants take hold, which is why it's everyone's responsibility to help eradicate electric ants.
Please play your part - check your garden, business, park, local playground and even inside your home regularly. Report any suspect ants to Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 or collect a sample and send it to us for identification.


