Argentine ants are one of the worlds most invasive and problematic ant species. They are very aggressive, and although they are not poisonous, they do bite people.
Unlike other ant species, Argentine ant colonies co-operate with each other, and can combine over winter into super-colonies.
They reach enormous numbers, which means they have a huge appetite. It also makes them more aggressive towards other insect populations through their sheer numbers.
- Identifying characteristics
- Workers are all the same size, small, 1/8-inch long
- Uniformly dull brown
- Petiole with 1 erect node
- Thorax uneven in shape when viewed from side M
- Musty odor emitted when crushed
It is important to stop the spread of Argentine ants. You can help to ensure that they are not moved around, in particular by:
• checking potted plants for ants before moving
• checking garden soil and bark, and building materials before moving
• checking camping gear, especially when you are moving in and around reserves
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
It is important to stop the spread of Argentine ants. You can help to ensure that they are not moved around, in
particular by:
-
checking potted plants for ants before moving
-
checking garden soil and bark, and building
-
materials before moving
-
checking camping gear, especially when you are moving in and around reserves
-
Bring in a sample from your property with you name address and contact details. |
Focus efforts on keeping ants out of the house.
Follow good sanitation practices to make your home less attractive to ants.
Spraying ants inside the home will not prevent more ants from entering.
Use baits to control the ant colony.
When ants invade your home, take immediate action
Click here to read or download the brochure on Control and Prevention
We need you help to control these colonies.