LAUSR

Simple Summary Red imported fire ants are highly aggressive invasive insects that pose challenges to agriculture, ecosystems, and public health. Their nests, or mounds, are often difficult to spot in traditional ground surveys, which also tend to be time-consuming and labor-intensive. This study explored the possible application of drones equipped with special cameras that can detect variations in light reflected on the ground to locate fire ant mounds from above. The researchers examined characteristics such as plant health and soil visibility, discovering that certain color patterns in the images, particularly those related to plant cover and soil exposure, can reliably reveal mound locations. Additionally, various methods for processing the images were evaluated to improve accuracy. The innovative approach developed in this study can serve as a quick and cost-effective detection method for fire ant mounds over vast areas. This approach can assist farmers, local governments, and pest control workers in responding more swiftly and effectively to ant invasions, which may minimize their spread and impact.