Question

The photo above shows the distribution of the red imported fire ant (RIFA), Solenopsis invicta. These ants were introduced from South America into the gulf coast states of the United States in the mid-Twentieth Century. What method of eradication of these ants would have the least adverse impact on other species in the ecosystem?
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Responses
A Introduce sterile males and females into the population to reduce the reproductive capacity.Introduce sterile males and females into the population to reduce the reproductive capacity.
B Apply a pesticide to affected areas to kill populations of RIFA.Apply a pesticide to affected areas to kill populations of RIFA.
C Eliminate the preferred habitat of the RIFA.Eliminate the preferred habitat of the RIFA.
D Introduce a predator of the RIFA.

Answer 1

A

Releasing sterile individuals (sterile-insect technique) targets only the pest species and reduces its reproductive success with minimal non‑target effects, unlike pesticides, habitat removal, or introducing predators which harm other species.