Black Garden Ant

Nests in soil, beneath stones, in rotting wood, lawns, and near building foundations

Omnivorous; consumes honeydew secreted by aphids, small insects, sugary liquids, and food scraps

Highly social insects living in complex subterranean colonies; known for farming aphids for honeydew and foraging along chemical pheromone trails

Benefits: Aerates soil, controls populations of small garden pests, and aids in decomposition. Risks: Can become a nuisance when foraging indoors, and protects aphid populations which can harm plants