Inspections on pot plants imported from the Mainland will raise consumer confidence in buying them, Deputy Director of Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Lau Sin-pang says.

Speaking on radio talk shows today, Mr Lau said authorities are looking into other viable methods to control the spread of red fire ants, although pesticide remained the most efficient and effective means to eradicate them.

The department will also study the ecological impact of the ants and the pesticides used, monitoring the level of pesticide residue in the aquatic areas of Hong Kong Wetland Park.

Mr Lau said the four locations with traces of suspected red fire ants are areas with new vegetation and he does not rule out the possibility that more suspected cases will be discovered. Inspection at local floral farms so far has not found any suspected red fire ants.