Ants
Ants are the most abundant insects on Earth. A fertile female ant (queen) can live for years and produce millions of eggs for a single colony. Adult males (drones) live several weeks and die shortly after mating. Sterile females are the workforce and divide up all the various tasks required to maintain a nest. Ant societies can be amazingly complex, on par with those found in their closest relatives, the bees and wasps.
Vector Significance
- Ants do not transmit disease or present an immediate threat to public health
- Some species, however, such as harvester ants (Pogonomyrmex spp.) and fire ants (Solenopsis spp.) can aggressively bite and sting when disturbed but encounters with these species are uncommon in Alameda County
- Some individuals may have allergic reactions to these bites or stings
- In Alameda County, only a few species of ants are encountered as pests
- The most common is the Argentine ant (Linepithema humile)
- This ant is native to South America but is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world
- Although it does not sting or bite humans, at certain times of the year it enters homes in search of food and water
Vector Control Services
- Vector Control Biologists can help identify specific ant species and discuss best options for dealing with an ant infestation
- Alameda County Vector Control Services District does not provide ant control treatments but can discuss what services a commercial pest control company can provide
Requesting Services
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What can the public do?
- Homeowners should regularly clean food preparation areas, empty and wash trash bins, and store food within sealed containers
- Apply sealants such as caulk to block entrances, remove infested indoor plants, and clean up yard clutter
- Ant trails can be neutralized by spraying them with warm soapy water or a dilute bleach solution
- Baits can be an effective control option but should only be used outdoors
- If a store-bought insecticide is used, carefully read the label instructions
- If the ant problem persists, professional pest control should be contacted
Ants
