Since detection of a single colony of Solenopsis invicta (Si) for the first time in Rep. of Korea in a container yard (Customs area) in Busan Metropolitan city in a gap of pavement in the container yard (CY), intensive eradication measures and survey had been implemented through out all the relevant CYs of ports and in-land container yeards. In conclusion, only one single colony was detected and the incursion was eradicated. Survey for Si and other invasive ants has been enhance and will be continued.
Detected area: One hundred meter diameter area from the detected spot was quarantined and all containers and other material movement was controlled until inspection and preventive disinfection was completed. Approximately 1,000 Si was collected after removal of concrete and soil and disinfection. 163 traps are installed in the CY. No further detection was reported.
In other CYs: All 34 CYs in ports and in-land CY were surveyed by trap (approx. 3,500 traps) and inspection. No detection was found.
Awarreness raising: Posters and brochures were distributed, press release on incursion, measures and reporting method etc. Hot-line was established to report any suspicious finding.
The Government of Republic of Korea increases inspection and survey for invasive ants in the container yards and imported containers, wood packaging material and consignments etc.
The exporting countries especially with invasive ants in their countries are requested strengthen the inspection not only plants and products but also containers, wood packaging materials etc. to export to Rep. of Korea.