Insects, Spiders, Mice & More
Pharoah Ant ID
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Pharoah Ant (Monomorium pharaonis)
Description of Workers: Tiny, around 1/16-inch to 3/32-inch (1.5 to 2 mm); yellowish to red; often confused with thief ants, but has 3 segments in the club-like structure at the end of the antenna (Thief ants have 2 segments).
Habits:
Pharoah ants nest in secluded spots and prefer temperatures between 80-86 degrees Fahrenheit. These ants are frequent house invaders; often found around kitchen and bathroom faucets where they obtains water. Pharoah ants feed on sweets but prefer fatty foods. The ants also eat dead insects and prey on other insects. Pharoah ants are more common in warmer climates.
Management:
Residual insecticides are not useful because colonies tend to split. Baiting is the preferred management strategy.
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This resource was updated November 2015 by Soni Cochran, Extension Associate
- Credits: Ant illustrations were developed by Vicki Jedlicka, Nebraska Extension in Lancaster County
- Photo Courtesy of http://www.antweb.org. Photographer: April Nobile
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