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Argentine ant colonies can grow to monumental size. Their colony borders sometimes cover entire habitats. Argentine ant queens also assist with foraging for food. The ant gives off a musty odor when crushed. Worker argentine ants are about one sixteenth of an inch long. Queen argentine ants are one eighth of an inch to one quarter of an inch long.
| Color | Dark brown to black; Shiny |
| Legs | 6 |
| Shape | Segmented; Oval |
| Size | 1/16 - 1/4" |
| Antennae | True |
Argentine ants thrive everywhere and span six continents. These ants can nest in both moist and dry places, oftentimes building their nests in living soil, underneath wood, debris or mulch. They also like to find cavities in the bases of trees and shrubs. Argentine ant nests are quite large and build off of each other, rather than budding off and creating new nests.
Argentine ants do not pose a threat to humans. However, these ants quickly grow in number and assail other ant species, as well as other insects and even small animals.
These ants do bite but are not poisonous.
Argentine ants prefer sweet foods, such as syrup, fruit juices or plant secretions, particularly honeydew created by aphids. However, they will eat almost anything, including meats, eggs, oils and fats.
Argentine ants move in well-defined lines, often of three ants wide. If you find one of these trails inside your home, you likely have an infestation.
These pests are attracted to moisture — especially standing water — so the first step is to remove moisture from inside and outside the home. To prevent an Argentine ant infestation, seal up any entry points to the home. Ants can use trees and branches close to rooflines to reach high points in your home, so be sure to trim all branches and keep them away from the house.
Argentine ants are tenacious, and generally spraying near their nests or around your house will cause them to bud off and create new nests, making your infestation worse. Instead, use baits that allow worker ants to bring the poison back into their nests and kill off the colony. Additionally, make sure to keep all surfaces clean at all times, so there is nothing for them to try to forage from your home.
If your home is becoming a haven for Argentine Ants, get help from the professionals at Hughes Exterminators using the form below.
After you submit the information below, a trained professional in your area will get in touch within 1-2 business days to set up a date & time that is convenient for you.
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