Bug Identifier
Ghost Ant
Community identification

Ghost Ant

Tapinoma melanocephalum

Order & Family
Hymenoptera: Formicidae
Size
1.3 to 1.5 mm
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments such as kitchens and bathrooms (near moisture), as well as outdoors under logs and stones in tropical/subtropical climates.

Diet & Feeding

Honeydew, sweet juices, and high-protein foods like dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Forms multiple colonies consisting of thousands of workers; known for their erratic, fast-moving running patterns when disturbed.

Risks & Benefits

Primarily a nuisance pest in homes because of their small size and ability to contaminate food; they do not sting and are generally harmless to humans but can be difficult to eradicate once established.