Pharaoh Ants

What Are Pharaoh Ants?

Pharaoh ants, scientifically known as Monomorium pharaonis, are tiny insects belonging to the ant family. These minuscule creatures are particularly notable for their complex social structure and widespread distribution. Pharaoh ants are a mere 1.5 to 2 millimeters in length, making them one of the smallest ant species.

Pharaoh ants exhibit a remarkable level of organization within their colonies. They establish densely populated nests, often found in warm, humid environments such as buildings, hospitals, and residences. These ants have a preference for nesting indoors, making them a common household pest.

The social structure of pharaoh ant colonies is polygynous, meaning they can have multiple queens. This trait contributes to their ability to expand rapidly and establish new colonies. Pharaoh ants are also known for their remarkable ability to move between different locations and establish satellite colonies, which can make them challenging to control.

These ants are omnivorous, which means they consume a wide range of food, including sugars, proteins, and fats. They are known to feed on various human foods and can contaminate stored goods. Controlling pharaoh ant infestations can be a complex task due to their reproductive capabilities and adaptability.

Do Pharaoh Ants Bite?

Yes, pharaoh ants are known to bite. While they lack a stinger for defense, they have powerful mandibles or jaws that they use to bite when they feel threatened or when they need to capture prey. Pharaoh ant bites can be uncomfortable and may cause mild irritation, especially if you are allergic to ant bites. However, their bites are not typically considered dangerous to humans.

Avoid provoking pharaoh ants or attempting to handle them, as this can lead to bites. Additionally, when pharaoh ants infest homes or indoor spaces, they can become a nuisance, as they may bite when they come into contact with people or pets.

If you encounter a pharaoh ant infestation in your home or workplace, it's advisable to seek professional pest control services to effectively manage and eliminate the colony, reducing the risk of bites and potential food contamination.

What Do Pharaoh Ants Look Like?

Pharaoh ants are small ants, measuring only about 1.5 to 2 millimeters in length, which is roughly the size of a typical pinhead. Their appearance is characterized by certain distinct features, even though they are quite tiny.

These ants typically have a pale yellow to light brown coloration, often with a slightly darker abdomen. Their bodies are slender, and they possess two distinct body segments: the head and the thorax (middle part) are fused together, while the abdomen is distinctly separated.

The head of a pharaoh ant is equipped with two elbowed antennae and contains powerful jaws or mandibles, which they use for various activities, including gathering food and communicating with other ants in their colony.

Unlike some ants, pharaoh ants lack a stinger, so they primarily rely on their biting mandibles for defense and to capture prey. Their legs are relatively short compared to their body size, and they have a distinct, noticeable "waist" between the thorax and abdomen.

What Do Pharaoh Ants Eat?

Pharaoh ants are omnivorous, which means they have a varied diet and consume a wide range of food sources. Their dietary preferences make them highly adaptable and capable of thriving in various environments. Here's a breakdown of what pharaoh ants commonly eat:

• Sugars: Pharaoh ants have a sweet tooth and are particularly attracted to sugary substances. They feed on items like sugar, honey, syrups, and nectar. They are notorious for seeking out sweet spills and crumbs in homes and other indoor spaces.
• Proteins: These ants also require protein for their diet. They obtain protein from sources such as insects, meat, pet food, and even dead insects. Protein is especially important for the development of ant larvae and maintaining the overall health of the colony.
• Fats: Pharaoh ants have a need for fats, which they can find in various sources like oily foods, greasy residues, and certain insects. Fats provide essential energy for the ants.
• Other food sources: Pharaoh ants are opportunistic feeders and will scavenge on a wide range of items. They may feed on crumbs, food scraps, and even decaying organic matter.

Their ability to feed on such a diverse array of food sources makes pharaoh ants adaptable to both natural and human-made environments. However, this omnivorous nature also contributes to their status as household pests, as they can contaminate food and infest kitchens and other areas where food is stored or prepared. Effective pest control measures are often necessary to manage pharaoh ant infestations.

How To Get Rid Of Pharaoh Ants

Eliminating a pharaoh ant infestation can be challenging due to their rapid reproductive rate and ability to establish multiple colonies. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to effectively get rid of pharaoh ants:

• Identify the Infestation: Confirm that you are dealing with pharaoh ants. Proper identification is crucial for effective treatment.
• Maintain Cleanliness: Keep your home or the affected area as clean as possible. Pharaoh ants are attracted to food sources, so eliminate crumbs, spills, and food residues. Store food in airtight containers.
• Remove Attractants: Remove or seal off any potential food sources that may be attracting the ants. This includes pet food, open food containers, and sugary substances.
• Block Entry Points: Seal cracks, crevices, and entry points where ants may be entering your home. Use caulk or sealant to close gaps in walls, windows, and doors.
• Do Not Disturb Nests: Avoid disturbing ant nests, as this can cause them to scatter and create new colonies.
• Use Ant Baits: Pharaoh ants are best controlled with ant baits. These baits contain a slow-acting poison that the ants carry back to their nests, effectively targeting the entire colony. Place the baits near ant trails and in areas where ants are most active.
• Rotate Baits: Pharaoh ants can change their dietary preferences, so it's a good idea to rotate different types of baits if one type doesn't seem effective after a few weeks.
• Professional Pest Control: If the infestation persists or worsens, consider hiring a professional pest control service with experience in dealing with pharaoh ants. They can use specialized treatments and have a better understanding of ant behavior.
• Monitor and Repeat: Continue to monitor the situation even after the initial treatment. It may take some time to completely eliminate the colony. If needed, repeat baiting and other control measures.
• Prevent Future Infestations: After the infestation is resolved, continue to maintain cleanliness and seal entry points to prevent future pharaoh ant problems.

Remember that patience is key when dealing with pharaoh ants, as it may take several weeks to completely eradicate the colony. Additionally, avoid using strong pesticides or sprays, as these can cause the ants to scatter and create new colonies, making the problem worse.