Identification
Argentine ants are light to dark brown, measuring about 1/8 inch in length. They have a segmented body with six legs and a single-node petiole. Unlike other ants, they do not have a noticeable stinger. These ants produce a musty odor when crushed and form massive colonies with multiple queens.
Lifecycle & Reproduction
Argentine ants undergo complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Queens lay eggs continuously, allowing colonies to grow rapidly. Workers emerge within 2 to 3 months and live for several weeks, while queens can survive for years. Colonies can merge to form supercolonies, enhancing their survival and spread.
Habits, Diet & Behavior
These ants are aggressive foragers, primarily consuming sugary substances like honeydew from aphids. They also feed on proteins and fats. Unlike many ant species, Argentine ants form cooperative mega-colonies, reducing competition and making them difficult to control.
Where You’ll Find Them / Typical Locations
Argentine ants nest in moist environments, typically found in:
- Near sidewalks and building foundations
- Under logs, mulch, and stones
- Inside wall voids and electrical boxes
- Kitchens and pantries searching for food
- Potted plants and garden beds
Threats & Danger
Argentine ants are nuisance pests that invade homes in large numbers. They displace native ant species and farm plant-damaging aphids for honeydew. While they do not bite or sting, they contaminate food and surfaces, spreading bacteria.
Prevention
- Seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and foundations
- Eliminate food and water sources inside the home
- Store food in airtight containers and clean up spills promptly
- Trim vegetation away from structures to reduce nesting sites
- Use ant baits to disrupt colony growth
Signs of Infestation
- Large trails of ants moving in and out of structures
- Presence of small, dark-colored ants in kitchens and pantries
- Increased aphid activity on plants due to honeydew farming
- Nesting under stones, logs, and in moist outdoor areas
- A musty smell when ants are crushed
How to Get Rid of It
- Use bait stations containing slow-acting insecticides to target the colony
- Apply perimeter insecticide treatments to entry points
- Remove nesting materials such as mulch and debris near the home
- Reduce moisture sources, including leaky pipes and standing water
- Consult professional pest control for extensive infestations