Bug Identifier
Pavement Ant
Community identification

Pavement Ant

Tetramorium immigrans

Order & Family
Hymenoptera: Formicidae
Size
2.5 to 4 mm (approx. 1/8 inch) for workers.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in urban and suburban areas, nesting under sidewalks, driveways, stones, and pavement cracks.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous; they eat seeds, honeydew, insects, and human food including sweets, grease, and bread crumbs.

Behavior Patterns

Highly social insects that form large colonies. Known for aggressive 'wars' with neighboring colonies over territory, often seen as clusters of ants on sidewalks.

Risks & Benefits

Mostly a nuisance pest in homes. They provide ecosystem services by cleaning up debris and aerating soil, but do not pose serious health risks to humans beyond minor stinging or biting if provoked.