Male and female reproductives are potential sources of RNA virus dissemination in Solenopsis invicta.

Newly mated queens and nest-collected reproductive males of Solenopsis invicta were surveyed for the presence of all RNA viruses known or described from this ant. Six RNA viruses were detected in monogyne newly mated queens, including Solenopsis invicta virus 1 (SINV1), SINV3, SINV4, SINV6, SINV7, and SINV14. These and an additional virus, SINV9, were detected in polygyne queens. Five RNA viruses were detected in male alates, including SINV1, SINV4, SINV6, SINV7, and SINV14. Queens may be one source responsible for virus dissemination during founding.