Fire ant rafts could float down Queensland river after recent heavy rains, expert warns

The invasive insects can float on flood waters by forming large fire ant balls or floating rafts. Photograph: Invasive Species Council

An increase in fire ant infestations along Queensland’s Logan River is raising concerns Australia’s worst invasive species could form floating rafts and spread downstream.

The Invasive Species Council advocacy manager, Reece Pianta, said governments should urgently ramp up eradication efforts along the Logan River, in south-east Queensland.