|
September 7, 2003
Dear Editor:
My wife and I recently returned from
a trip to your beautiful city. We enjoyed it so much,
we conditionally purchased a time share there even though
we were unsuccessful in our attempts, while there, to
obtain specific information regarding the presence,
or lack thereof, of imported red fire ants (Solenopsis
invicta Buren) in the vicinity. Though it is well known
that fire ants like warm, humid climates and that they
have spread throughout South America, much of Mexico
and the southeastern U.S., our discussions with numerous
local individuals led us to the unconfirmed conclusion
that fire ants probably do not reside within the immediate
vicinity of the City of Puerto Vallarta. However, at
least one person we talked with, and a local physician,
were aware of their existence inland from Puerto Vallarta.
The presence, or lack thereof, of
this pest is information which is essential to us since
one of my daughters has a life threatening allergic
reaction to the bite of this ant. Before we could seriously
consider bringing her with us to this beautiful vacation
destination, we must be reasonably sure that the ant
does not exist in the area in which she would be visiting.
I have tried searching the web for
information on the spread of this pest throughout Mexico
but can find nothing about its possible existence in
or around Puerto Vallarta. On our recent stay there,
we became familiar with your wonderful and very informative
newspaper and were particularly impressed with articles
written by Professor Fabio Cupul. We would very much
appreciate a note from Professor Cupul, or any other
knowledgeable person on your staff, or any other leads
or links which would help us in determining the potential
health risks to our daughter should the presence of
this ant be confirmed in the immediate vicinity of Puerto
Vallarta.
Very Sincerely,
Roberto
Dear Roberto,
Research on the diversity of
ant species in Mexico is still quite meager. We know
that one of the most dangerous to man is the red ant
of the Solenopsis species known as the "fire ant".
There are reports of their presence on the coast of
the Gulf of Mexico, mainly in the State of Tamaulipas.
There are no reports for the Vallarta area, but I am
consulting with Prof. Patricia Rojas, expert in ants
at the Science Faculty of the Universidad Nacional Autonoma
de Mexico to find out more. You can also contact Dr.
William Mackay at Texas U. in El Paso, at wmackay@utep.edu
and check out http://www.utep.edu/leb/antgenera.htm
For my part, I will try to find out the species of ants
in Puerto Vallarta that possess “fire ant”
characteristics to find out if this particular one is
present in this area - or not. I hope to have an answer
for you by next week.
Fabio Cupul
Archives
by date |
Current
Weather Report
