Research progress of invasion biology and management of red imported fire ant

As of 2019, it has been 15 years since red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta Buren) was found in mainland China. With the great attention and support from the government and other institutions, our research center has focused on the basic research and application study on the theory and technology of fire ant management. Through systematic researches, the temporal and spatial regulations of fire ant invasion, spread and expansion in mainland China were revealed. The biological basis, regulations and impact of fire ant outbreak on agro-ecosystem were clarified, and its invasive advantages and ecological effects were presented. The theoretical basis for chemical control of fire ant was explained, and monitoring system, quarantine system, and emergency control, eradication and management system were established and widely applied. The results provide scientific and technological supports and guarantee for the control and management of fire ants in China.