Odorous House Ant

Identification

• dark brown to black
• 1/8 inch long
• ants of one size
• one node (bump between middle and rear body sections); node difficult to see
• emit an odor similar to coconuts when disturbed or smashed
• raise abdomens in air and run around when disturbed

Nesting Habits

• outdoors: nests shallow, in mulch next to buildings and in soil under protection
• indoors: nest in wall voids and under carpet, usually near water pipes or heaters

Diet

• insects and sweets, especially honeydew excreted by aphids and other insects
• forage indoors for sweets, cooked vegetables, fruit and pastries

Significance

• contaminate foods such as sweets, meats, dairy products and vegetables

IPM Recommendations

• Locate and destroy all nests to avoid reinfestation. (Follow ants back from their food source.)
• Clean ant trails with soap and water.
• Trim shrubbery and trees away from buildings.
• Store food in airtight containers and dispose of trash regularly.
• Seal potential ant entryways.
• Use a bait specific to the odorous house ant.