
Community identification
Pavement Ant
Tetramorium caespitum
- Order & Family
- Hymenoptera, Formicidae
- Size
- 2.5 to 4 mm (workers)
Natural Habitat
Underneath pavement, sidewalks, building foundations, driveway cracks, and stones, often near human structures.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous; feeds on sugary liquids, honeydew, grease, dead insects, seeds, and scraps of human food.
Behavior Patterns
Forms large subterranean colonies, establishes distinct foraging trails along cracks and edges, and frequently engages in territorial spring wars with neighboring ant colonies.
Risks & Benefits
Minor home pest that can enter kitchens in search of food, but does not cause structural damage; acts as a scavenger helping clean up organic waste in urban environments.