
Community identification
Ghost Ant
Tapinoma melanocephalum
- Order & Family
- Order: Hymenoptera; Family: Formicidae
- Size
- 1.3 to 1.5 mm
Natural Habitat
Found in tropical and subtropical regions; indoors, they inhabit wall voids, behind baseboards, and in potted plants.
Diet & Feeding
Honeydew from aphids and mealybugs; indoors, they prefer sugary substances like syrups, honey, and sweets.
Behavior Patterns
Fast-running and erratic movements; highly adaptable nesting habits; they form multiple colonies that exchange members.
Risks & Benefits
They are a nuisance pest in homes and hospitals, potentially spreading pathogenic bacteria; however, they play a role in the ecosystem by preying on other small insects.