The argentine ant has had great success in adapting to new environments, and in many documented cases dominating, and replacing native ant species. It is considered a significant pest and is believed to be a native of Argentina and Brazil.
In urban environments, Argentine ants literally overrun homes and other structures in large numbers, and in addition, protect insects that attack garden plants and other landscape growth.
In agricultural areas such as California and Florida, argentine ants have a serious negative impact because they protect aphids, mealy bugs and scale for the purpose of harvesting their honeydew. Another trait is that neighboring argentine ant colonies inter mingle and do not come in conflict with each other. During the winter, the colonies sometimes join together to winter over. Their colonies are fast growing and generally contain more than one queen. They have no soldier caste, all of the workers are aggressive predators.
Large sums of money have been spent not only in the United States but also abroad, in Australia, France, South Africa and New Zealand among others. The bulk of the monies spent have been delegated to broadcast pesticides which have long lasting negative effects on beneficial insects, wildlife and the environment as a whole.
Argentine Ant Control
Argentine ants generate strong pheromone trails when foraging. They can be easily tracked. In many areas, you will see them pathing three and four abreast. When Ant Pro, filled with the appropriate liquid ant bait, is placed where the ants traverse, the bait is irresistible and continually available to them. Ant Pro ant bait stations are the smart choice to get rid of this pest.
With Argentine Ants you should not spray or spread insecticides inside or outside your home. This alerts the ants to danger and causes them to stop their feeding and begin to reproduce in larger numbers.
For additional assistance, phone Ken at (941) 445-4252 or submit questions to him using our contact form.