Common Name(s): Ghost Ant
Description
Workers are one size, about 1/16 inch. The head and thorax are dark brown to black. The antennae, waist (pedicel), gaster and legs are pale in color. The waist has one flattened node hidden by the base of the gaster. The tip of the abdomen lacks a circle of hairs. These ants emit a nauseous, rotten coconut-like odor when crushed.
Origin and Distribution
Ghost ants have been reported along the Gulf coast of Texas.
Life Cycle
Egg, larva, pupa and adult.
Management
If you live in the State of Texas, contact your local county agent or entomologist for management information. If you live outside of Texas, contact your local extension for management options.Indoors, ghost ants nest in cabinets, walls and potted plants and behind baseboards. Outdoors, they can be found under logs, stones, potted plants, etc. These ants prefer sweets but will eat insects. They tend insects for honeydew. Because of their high water requirements, they can be found trailing to water sources.