Color: Head and thorax dark brown; abdomen and legs pale yellowish in color
Legs: 6
Shape: Unevenly rounded; thorax lacks spines
Size: Workers about 1/16” (1.3-1.5 mm) long
Antennae: Yes
Region: Found in many areas of the United States, Puerto Rico, Canada and the Caribbean Islands
Ghost ants get their common name from the fact that they are very hard to see due to their pale color and tiny size. They are a tropical species, probably of African or Asian origin. In the United States, ghost ants are found primarily in central and southern Florida and Hawaii. This type of ant is unable to survive in the northern states except in greenhouses and heated spaces.
Ghost ants are highly adaptable in their nesting habits, which seem to be similar to those of pharaoh ants. Colonies of ghost ants are moderate to large in size and can contain thousands of workers and numerous functional queens distributed across multiple nesting sites.
Ghost ants are very fond of honeydew. They also feed on dead and living insects. Inside, ghost ants show a preference to sweet foods and are most commonly found in kitchens, food storage and food preparation areas.
Ghost ants do not sting, as they lack a stinger. However, ghost ants can become a serious nuisance because they are known to nest inside commercial structures. Similar to odorous house ants, ghost ants give off a coconut-like odor when they are crushed.
Outside, ghost ants make their nest in the ground. They prefer cavities and crevices in dead tree branches, but will also nest under stones, inside logs and within piles of leaves and other debris. Ghost ants will readily enter structures by trailing from nests along sidewalks, patios and foundation walls.
Inside, ghost ants typically nest in wall voids, behind baseboards, between cabinets and inside the soil of potted plants. Workers often trail under carpet edges and along electrical wires in wall voids where they are hidden from view. Because of their high moisture needs, ghost ants can also be found trailing to water sources such as sinks, shower stalls, tubs, potted plants, etc.
Ghost ants often enter buildings by trailing along branches of trees and shrubs in direct contact with the structure. To prevent a ghost ant infestation, business owners should keep shrubbery trimmed, ensure branches are cut back, leaf litter and debris is removed, and store firewood at least 20 feet away from any structure.
A thorough inspection of the property is crucial to determine if a ghost ant infestation has developed. Indoors, it is advisable to perform regular inspections of sinks, toilets, and tubs for any leaks or drips. Check carpet edges and shoe moldings, and around windows and doors for trails of ants. Also, inspect electrical outlets, data and charging ports, especially in the kitchen and bathroom. Outdoors, pay attention to the area along foundation walls and sidewalks by pulling back the grass. Turn over any stones, bricks, logs, firewood or debris on the ground.
Ghost ants eat honeydew, which is made by aphids and other leaf-eating insects. They will also eat dead insects.
These ants are attracted to food to feed their colony. Indoors, they prefer greasy foods, but they will be drawn to sweet food sources if they are available.
Controlling ghost ants requires time and patience. Business owners should consider working with a pest control professional to employ a preventative pest management plan or treat an existing problem.