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There are many known species of fire ants (Solenopsis spp.) in the United States, at least three of which are commonly found in Arizona: the native southern fire ant (Solenopsis xyloni), and two species of desert fire ants (Solenopsis aurea and Solenopsis amblychila).
The red imported fire ant (RIFA, Solenopsis invicta) is not established in Arizona, but is found in the southern areas of New Mexico and California. The arid climate in the low desert area is a limiting factor for this invasive species
Southern fire ants feed on a wide variety of foods, such as insects, sweet foods, grease, proteins, honeydew, and seeds. Candy bars and other nut-containing sweets are among their favorites. Fire ant workers are polymorphic, meaning they vary in size from 1/8 inch to over 1/4 inch in length. Ants are active in the morning and early evening.
Southern fire ants nest in bare soil with direct sun exposure, forming barely identifiable patches of loose soil often near moisture. The colonies do not typically form mounds. When disturbed, fire ants may swarm out of nests and defend their colony by biting and stinging.