Physical Characteristics of Argentine Ants in Phoenix
- Variations in color include a dull red, yellowish or dark brown
- Workers are .12” long. Queens are double to quadruple the length
- Emit an odor that is musty and stale when crushed
Argentine Ant Behavior
- Form supercolonies of ants via unicoloniality, the intermingling of physically separated nests
- Supercolonies include 100’s of queens
- Prefer nesting in organic materials that are decomposing
- Invade homes and other shelter during storms, droughts, etc.
Food Sources in Phoenix
- Omnivorous, preferring the juice of fruits or sweet matter
Life Cycle
- Argentine ants live up to five months
Related Pest Control Information and Warnings
- Killing worker ants is futile as queens can produce more workers quickly in Phoenix
- Travel occurs along pheromone paths allowing extreme mobility for the colony Over time, the colony/network can infest entire city blocks as a result of unicolonity
- Over time, the colony/network can infest entire city blocks as a result of unicolonity
If you notice an Argentine Ant or have feel as though you have an infestation in your Phoenix property please feel free to call Bug Guardian at (480)345-2847.