The number one nuisance pest in North America, ants make up the majority of local pest problems. Varying by species, the average colony is made up of anywhere between 300,000 to 500,000 ants. With the capability of surviving more than seven years, it’s no surprise that they are likely to take up residence in your home.
Arizona is home to a variety of ant species, thanks to its diverse desert and semi-arid environment. Here are some of the most common ant species you’ll find in the state:
1. Argentine Ants (Linepithema humile)
- Characteristics: Small, light to dark brown ants with a strong preference for sweet foods.
- Habitat: Found near water sources, in kitchens, or outside under stones and logs.
- Concerns:
- They can invade homes in large numbers.
- Known for displacing native ant species.
2. Harvester Ants (Pogonomyrmex spp.)
- Characteristics: Medium to large reddish-brown ants known for collecting seeds.
- Habitat: Build large, flat nests with visible clearings around them.
- Concerns:
- Painful stings; some species are venomous enough to cause severe reactions.
- Beneficial for aerating soil but can damage lawns and crops.
3. Fire Ants (e.g., Solenopsis xyloni – Southern Fire Ant)
- Characteristics: Small, reddish-brown ants that are aggressive and sting.
- Habitat: Found in gardens, under rocks, or near water sources.
- Concerns:
- Painful stings that can cause allergic reactions.
- Can damage crops and electrical equipment.
4. Carpenter Ants (Camponotus spp.)
- Characteristics: Large, black or reddish-black ants.
- Habitat: Nest in decayed wood, including trees, stumps, or structural wood in homes.
- Concerns:
- Do not eat wood but excavate it to build nests, potentially damaging wooden structures.
5. Pavement Ants (Tetramorium immigrans)
- Characteristics: Small, dark brown or black ants with parallel lines on their head and thorax.
- Habitat: Nest under sidewalks, driveways, or the foundations of buildings.
- Concerns:
- Forage indoors for food, often causing nuisance infestations.
6. Crazy Ants (Paratrechina longicornis)
- Characteristics: Small, dark ants with erratic and fast movement patterns.
- Habitat: Prefer moist environments; often found indoors near sinks or outdoors in potted plants.
- Concerns:
- Their large colonies can overwhelm other ant species.
7. Velvety Tree Ants (Liometopum spp.)
- Characteristics: Medium-sized ants with a velvety black or brown appearance and a distinctive odor when crushed.
- Habitat: Found in trees, logs, or wall voids in homes.
- Concerns:
- May invade homes in search of sweet foods.
- Can bite when threatened.
8. Odorous House Ants (Tapinoma sessile)
- Characteristics: Small, dark brown to black ants with a rotten coconut smell when crushed.
- Habitat: Nests indoors in wall voids or outdoors under debris.
- Concerns:
- Persistent invaders in kitchens and pantries.
Prevention Tips
- Eliminate Food Sources: Store food in sealed containers and clean up crumbs immediately.
- Seal Entry Points: Caulk cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and walls.
- Remove Water Sources: Fix leaks and eliminate standing water.
- Maintain Landscaping: Keep plants and mulch away from the foundation of your home.
If an ant infestation becomes severe, consult a pest control professional to identify the species and apply targeted treatments.
