Bug Identifier
Pavement Ant
Community identification

Pavement Ant

Tetramorium immigrans

Order & Family
Hymenoptera: Formicidae
Size
Workers are 2.5 to 4 mm in length.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Urban areas, under stones, cracks in pavement, and in soil near structures.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous; feeds on a variety of foods including fruit, seeds, grease, honey, bread, meats, and other insects.

Behavior Patterns

Highly aggressive toward other ant colonies, often engaging in large-scale sidewalk battles. They are primarily nocturnal but active during the day if temperatures are moderate.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a nuisance pest in homes. They do not typically bite or sting humans unless handled, and they provide ecosystem benefits by aerating soil and recycling organic matter.