Ornamental and Turf Pesticide Applicators Practice Exam

Which method is most effective in controlling fire ants?

1. Using only granules

2. Broadcast bait treatments

3. Applying liquid insecticides

4. Solarization

The correct answer is: Broadcast bait treatments

Broadcast bait treatments are considered the most effective method for controlling fire ants because they leverage the foraging behavior of these pests. Fire ants are attracted to food sources and will carry the bait back to their nests, allowing for colony-wide exposure to the active ingredient. This method not only targets the individual ants that come into contact with the bait but also reaches the queen and other ants that may not be directly exposed. In contrast, using only granules may not effectively reach all members of the colony, as it relies on direct application in specific areas rather than the broader reach provided by bait. Liquid insecticides might eliminate ants upon direct contact, but they often do not provide lasting control as they do not kill the queen or ensure that foragers take the active ingredient back to the nest. Solarization, while effective in some contexts for controlling pests through heat, is much less targeted and practical for managing fire ant populations specifically. Keeping these factors in mind, broadcast bait treatments stand out for their ability to systematically eradicate fire ant colonies by exploiting their natural behavior, making this method the most comprehensive approach to fire ant control.