
Community identification
Ghost ant
Tapinoma melanocephalum
- Order & Family
- Hymenoptera: Formicidae
- Size
- 1.3 to 1.5 millimeters
Natural Habitat
Tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, nesting in soil, flowerpots, wall voids, and under baseboards.
Diet & Feeding
Generalist omnivorous scavengers typically feeding on honeydew secreted by plant-sucking insects as well as sweets and proteins found in homes.
Behavior Patterns
Highly active and move rapidly in erratic patterns. They form multiple interconnected nesting sites and exhibit high colony mobility to adapt to changing environments.
Risks & Benefits
They are considered a major nuisance pest in homes and hospitals due to their ability to contaminate food and sterile surfaces, but do not sting or cause structural damage.