Successful work

The Biosecurity Law, which took effect on April 15, is expected to promote the prevention and control of invasive species, including the red fire ant.

China has successfully eradicated the pests in six quarantine areas, including Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Hunan province, but Lu feels that the battle between humans and the insects will not result in victory for either side.

"Although these ants may not be eradicated nationwide, they could adapt to our ecosystem and live alongside some domestic species in the future," he said.

Luo, the CAAS researcher, said studies have shown that tumblebugs, or dung beetles, were found in the nests of red fire ants. Their studies also found that the fire ants bite each other.

To date, the control area for red fire ants covers 267,000 hectares, accounting for more than 80 percent of the areas nationwide in which the insects have been reported, according to the Ministry of Agriculture.

Last month, six inspection teams comprising officials from nine government departments were sent to a total of 12 provinces and cities to guide prevention and control work, carry out investigations, contain infestation sources, and eradicate the ants in key areas.

In Guangdong, the provincial department of agricultural and rural affairs aims to largely contain serious infestations of red fire ants by the end of 2023. The construction department will step up park patrols, while the department of natural resources will keep a close watch on forests and wetlands.

In addition, one or two insecticides stores will be set up in each village in the province, with a range of insecticides assessed for effectiveness and scientific use.

In spring, more than 40,000 people attended 180 courses throughout Guangdong to learn about red fire ants from professionals.

Li Wenfang contributed to this story.