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Using targeted poisoning of red imported fire ants to improve Texas horned lizard habitat
Gangbin, Kira Nicole
Gangbin, Kira Nicole
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2024-05-06
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Abstract
The spread of red imported fire ants (Solenopsis invicta; RIFA) is often cited as a factor contributing to the decline of the Texas horned lizard (Phrynosoma cornutum; THL). Many studies have attempted broadcast poison application to eradicate RIFA; however, this could have unintended consequences for non-target invertebrates that THL need for food. Using a targeted application method, we sought to reduce RIFA abundance over the summers of 2022 and 2023 at Mason Mountain WMA in central Texas, a locality with an ongoing THL reintroduction program. At treated sites, one teaspoon of ant poison (Amdro®) was applied to bait stations with RIFA present thirty minutes after placement. Effects of each targeted poisoning were evaluated using pitfall traps and bait stations. Pitfall trapping was likely a more accurate estimate of ant abundance and revealed that targeted poisoning decreased RIFA abundance for both years and had variable effects on hatchling THL prey abundance.
Contents
Subject
Biology
Wildlife conservation
Ecology
Horned lizards
Fire ants
Targeted poisoning
Land management
Wildlife conservation
Ecology
Horned lizards
Fire ants
Targeted poisoning
Land management
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Biology