More locations with suspected traces of red fire ants have been found by Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department officers.

In a Hong Kong-wide operation today, 40 nests of the suspected ant species were found within the Hong Kong Wetland Park area, 19 of which have been destroyed and treated with pesticide.

The department has also started disinfecting a site in Yeung Uk Tsuen, Yuen Long, where six suspected nests were found.

No suspected nests have been found at 400 recreational sites and 28 country park trails. No abnormalities have been found in imported pot plants in 32 trucks and 33 nurseries.

An investigation will be conducted into Yeung Uk Tsuen case and no source has been identified in the Wetland Park case.

Deputy Director of Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Lau Sin-pang said the department will continue checks for affected sites throughout Hong Kong. The 300-strong patrolling team will watch for any traces of the ants in country parks and nurseries, and tighten inspection of potted plants from the Mainland.

He said farmers should be vigilant in monitoring pest conditions on their farms, and the general public should apply household pesticides on any infested plants. Travellers should not bring pot plants into Hong Kong.