Pests could cost the state in billions if the spread continues, Invasive Species Council warnsOne of the world’s worst invasive pests, red fire ants, have been detected outside a containment zone in Queensland’s scenic rim. The discovery comes as the Invasive Species Council prepares to release a discussion paper raising alarm at the country’s handling of threats to biodiversity. Red imported fire ants were listed as a “key threatening process” (KTP) in 2003, with a corresponding “threat abatement plan” (TAP) set in 2006. Everyone has a role to play and a general biosecurity obligation.”Fire ants have been detected in Brisbane, Sydney and the Gladstone region. The latest find was about a kilometre from the boundary of the biosecurity zone, near Anthony in the Scenic Rim.

Source: The Guardian May 26, 2018 22:02 UTC