Solenopsis invicta - Red Imported Fire Ant stinging
Texas, USA
Fire ants are well known for the ferocity of their defensive behavior. To sting, an ant anchors herself by grabbing hold with her mandibles and jabs at her target with her sting, located at the tip of the abdomen. The stinger is used to inject a venom that produces most of the distinct pain associated with fire ant stings. In contrast, the bite of the mandibles may itch somewhat but does not itself leave a lasting effect.
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