Pharaoh Ant (likely identification based on color and size)
Scientific Name: Monomorium pharaonis
Order & Family: Order: Hymenoptera, Family: Formicidae
Size: Very small; workers are typically 1.5 to 2 mm (1/16 inch) long.
Natural Habitat
Almost exclusively indoors in heated buildings, particularly hospitals, hotels, grocery stores, and apartment complexes. They nest in hard-to-reach voids like wall spaces, cabinet voids, and under floors.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous; they feed on sweets, fats, proteins, and dead insects. In hospitals, they are notorious for seeking moisture from patient wounds or IV fluids.
Behavior Patterns
They are known for 'budding' (splitting colonies) rather than swarming, meaning a single nest can fracture into many if disturbed by insecticidal sprays. They form extensive trails to food sources.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Major nuisance pest; difficult to eradicate due to colony fragmentation. Significant health hazard in hospitals as they can transmit pathogens like Salmonella and Streptococcus. Benefits: None in an indoor context.
Identified on: 2/24/2026