
Community identification
Citronella Ant
Lasius claviger
- Order & Family
- Hymenoptera: Formicidae
- Size
- 3 mm to 4.5 mm (workers)
Natural Habitat
Underground in soil, often under stones, logs, or pavement
Diet & Feeding
Exclusively honeydew farmed from aphids and mealybugs that live on plant roots
Behavior Patterns
Mainly subterranean and nocturnal; they emit a strong lemon-like odor when crushed as a defense mechanism
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to humans and structures; beneficial to soil aeration, though they may protect pests on ornamental plant roots