
Community identification
Ghost Ant
Tapinoma melanocephalum
- Order & Family
- Order: Hymenoptera, Family: Formicidae
- Size
- 1.3 to 1.5 mm
Natural Habitat
Typically found in tropical and subtropical regions; indoors they nest in wall voids, potted plants, and behind baseboards.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous; they primarily feed on honeydew secreted by aphids and other insects, but also seek out sweets, grease, and proteins.
Behavior Patterns
Highly mobile and known for erratic movement when disturbed; they form large, multi-queen colonies and frequently relocate nesting sites.
Risks & Benefits
Considered a nuisance pest that can contaminate food; they do not sting and their bite is usually unnoticed, but they can transport pathogenic organisms in hospital settings.