Simopelta sp. nr. pergandei, nest emigration across leaf litter. Parque Nacional Henri Pittier, Venezuela

Among the most damaging pest ant species is Solenopsis invicta, a fire ant native to South America. This species has been accidentally imported to the southern United States, eastern Australia, China, and elsewhere. Here a worker fire ant is shown in stereotypical defensive posture, her sting extruded, waving a droplet of venom in the air. Austin, Texas, USA

Solenopsis invicta Austin, Texas, USA