The red imported fire ant, or RIFA for short, is no ordinary red ant. This invasive pest lives up to its name, delivering a sting that causes a burning sensation when its venom is injected into the skin.
People sometimes confuse RIFA with the native southern fire ant. Both can become very agitated when their nest is disturbed but RIFA are more likely to attack. RIFA can bite and sting its victim repeatedly, and its sting is more serious, causing a burning and itching sensation. This is followed by the formation of a white pustule, which can take several weeks to disappear. If not kept clean, the pustules can become infected and may leave permanent scarring. A small...
![Nymphs and white waxy tubules of ACP infesting citrus and being tended by ants. [M.E. Rogers]](https://ucanr.edu/blogs/UCIPMurbanpests/blogfiles/41879small.jpg)
If you subscribe to our Pests in the Landscape blog, you'll notice that we frequently post updates about Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) and huanglongbing (HLB). Educate yourself about ACP and HLB so you can help prevent its spread. Here are a few things you can do:
- Read the Pest Note: Asian Citrus Psyllid and Huanglongbing to learn how to identify the psyllid, host plants, and what you can do.
- Visit this Distribution of ACP/HLB website to find out if ACP/HLB has been found in your area.
- Watch this
![Examining citrus flush for Asian citrus psyllid. [Photo by Marcy Sousa]](https://ucanr.edu/blogs/UCIPMurbanpests/blogfiles/41096small.jpg)
Are you registered for one of the upcoming "IPM Workshops for Retail Nurseries and Garden Centers"? If not, time is running out!
Oakland Workshop, Jan. 24, 2017
Registration is now open to all for the January 24, IPM Training for Retail Nurseries and Garden Centers in Oakland, CA. A few spaces are still available!
Register now to secure your spot to learn about invasive pests, Asian citrus psyllid and huanglongbing disease, household pests, and IPM and pesticides.
Integrated Pest Management Workshop for Retail Nurseries and Garden Centers
Are you registered yet for this one-day, hands-on, train-the-trainer workshop designed especially for retail nursery and garden center employees, managers, owners, and affiliates? It's winter, it's raining, the topics are awesome, it's only $40-- what are you waiting for?
The workshop will help you and your employees gain new skills to better serve customers and keep them coming back!
When: Thursday, January 28, 2016
Where: Ontario Airport Hotel and Conference Center
Time: 8:30 AM to 2:45...
