Red fire ants have been confirmed in 12 mounds on Kam Ho Road in Yuen Long.

Pest control operations have been conducted to destroy the nests, the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department says.

Some 199 mounds have been found so far. Government departments will continue inspections for the ants.

A pamphlet on red fire ants has been produced to educate the public the characteristics of the species and their nests as well as how to treat ant stings.

Copies will be distributed through District Offices and the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department offices. The pamphlet is also available on the department's website.

Ant-eaters might not be the best solution

Meanwhile, Secretary for the Environment, Transport & Works Dr Sarah Liao says introducing an ant-eater might not be the best solution to the red fire ants problem.

Speaking after the opening ceremony of the Environmental Protection Festival today, Dr Liao said the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department is doing detailed research on anti-ant measures.

"We have to consider how to maintain the balance in our ecosystem before we do anything drastic. Introducing a life form which is outside the ecological cycle in Hong Kong has to be carefully considered."