Pharaoh Ant

Latin Name:

Monomorium pharaonis

Appearance:

Very small—about 1/16-inch long. Light yellow to red with black markings on the abdomen.

Habit:

Relies on artificial heating in buildings to survive. Infestations commonly occur in food service areas. Will nest in any well-protected and hidden areas throughout a structure. Can also nest outdoors in lawns or gardens.

Diet:

Food of all types, but especially sweets. Will also eat other insects.

Reproduction:

Grows from egg to adult in about 45 days. Females live as long as 39 weeks and can lay about 400 eggs. Workers only live up to 10 weeks.

Other:

One of the most persistent and difficult ants to control. Very large colonies with up to several million workers and thousands of queens.