The black imported fire ant (Solenopsis richteri), often abbreviated as BIFA, is a species of ant in the genus Solenopsis (fire ants). It was long thought to either be a subspecies or a color variation of Solenopsis invicta (the red imported fire ant, or simply RIFA), but is now recognized as its own species, with a demonstratively different range and living habits. BIFA seem to be more tolerant of cold, and a less dominant species than RIFA. The BIFA's higher body content of water than the RIFA might be related to their difference of living regions.
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Is it venomous or poisonous?
Considered venomous. Public sources list it as such; we have not verified this individually. The note covers its whole genus. Fire ants; stings Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.
Easily confused with
- Chelaner antarcticus
- Solenopsis gayi — considered venomous
- Solenopsis invicta — venomous
- Huberia striata
- Solenopsis xyloni — considered venomous
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Hymenoptera
- Family
- Formicidae
- Genus
- Solenopsis
- Species
- Solenopsis richteri
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