Ghost Ant

Scientific Name: Tapinoma melanocephalum

Order & Family: Hymenoptera: Formicidae

Size: 1.3 to 1.5 mm

Ghost Ant

Natural Habitat

Nests in disturbed areas, flowerpots, and under debris. Commonly found indoors in high humidity areas like kitchens or bathrooms.

Diet & Feeding

Opportunistic feeders that prefer honeydew and sweets, but also consume dead insects and protein-based fats.

Behavior Patterns

They exhibit a highly erratic, 'frantic' movement when disturbed. They often form multiple satellite colonies which makes them difficult to eradicate.

Risks & Benefits

They do not sting or cause structural damage, but are considered major nuisance pests that can contaminate human food sources.

Identified on: 5/21/2026