Abstract
Throughout history, plants, animals, and microorganisms have been intentionally and accidentally transported around the world by humans. Although a small portion of transported organisms become established invasive alien species, those that do frequently impart multi-tiered negative impacts on the ecosystems they are introduced into. Ants are especially easy to transport, are preadapted to successful establishment, and account for over one-third of the terrestrial arthropods on the list of the world’s worst 100 invasive species. Impacts and the life histories of many invasive ants have been well documented, however, effective management options for many problematic species is lacking. Current management techniques and methods are generally developed for a few, high profile, target species and are often ineffective against other species. Such is the case with Wasmannia auropunctata, an invasive ant species widely distributed throughout the tropics and subtropics.Wasmannia auropunctata’s ability to invade natural ecosystems, agriculture, and urban landscapes leads to multi-tired direct and indirect impacts on people, animals, and plants. Their unique biology, behaviors, and the diversity of habitat preferences has rendered traditional control methods effective under limited circumstances; thus, highlighting the need for species specific management strategies. The aim of this thesis was to consolidate all existing knowledge on W. auropunctata and expand on this knowledge base in a way that directly relates to developing effective management strategies for this species. Here, we have investigated chemical sensitivity, dietary effects on foraging, and bait matrix formulations for the densely vegetated habitats typical of the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. This research culminated in a large-scale “proof of concept” demonstration via an eradication effort on the island of Kaua`i, Hawai`i, USA. The management strategies developed in this thesis are suitable for the diverse habitats W. auropunctata inhabit while also being readily available to residents and agriculture workers without special permitting. It is also the intent of the authors that the information contained herein should also act as a foundation for further research and development of advanced management strategies for area-wide management and eradication projects and site-specific management techniques.
| Date of Award | 2023 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Supervisor | Jasmyn LYNCH (Supervisor), Arthur GEORGES (Supervisor) & Mark LINTERMANS (Supervisor) |