The red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta, first arrived in Texas in 1956 and quickly spread, where it now occupies more than half the state. The ecological and economic impact of this invasive ant has been well-documented in the state. Ecologically, it reduces native arthropod fauna and has a big effect on ground nesting birds. Economically, it’s estimated that this pest ant costs the state $1.2B dollars annually, affecting both urban and agricultural areas. After failed federal efforts to eradicate the fire ant, the state of Texas invested in its own research and management program, as did several other states. However, the Texas program, the Imported Fire Ant Research and Management Program, was the largest state program with $1.25 M invested annually since 1997. Several important developments arose out of this program including research on the biology and management of fire ants as well as treatment recommendations. Results of these research and management efforts will be discussed.

• Edward L. Vargo(Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University)