Tramp ant preventative surveillance approaches and collaboration in Central Queensland

Abstract

Tramp ants refer to a group of highly invasive ants that can have significant environmental, economic, and social impacts. The detection of yellow crazy ants (Anoplolepis gracilipes) at Shute Harbour in 2019 was the catalyst for Biosecurity Queensland to instigate a systematic, regional-scale preventative tramp ant surveillance program in Central Queensland. The first surveillance activity occurred at Port of Mackay in December 2020 and a regional tramp ant surveillance plan was subsequently finalised in November 2021. Target species include red imported fire ants (RIFA), tropical fire ants, electric ants, browsing ants and yellow crazy ants. Surveillance provides proof-of-freedom confidence for state eradication programs. Early detection of these, and other high-risk species, will enable a rapid response and increase the likelihood of extirpation (localised eradication). Biosecurity Queensland has partnered with Department of Defence, local governments, marinas, Landcare groups and port authorities to coordinate 120 surveys to date. While no priority detections have occurred yet, recordings of some pest ants have local implications for key stakeholders. Biosecurity Queensland has increasingly sought to increase the capacity of others for collaborative and individual tramp ant surveillance efforts and outcomes. Through such partnerships with stakeholders, surveillance may be expanded to incorporate other potential incursion pathways and entry points.