Black House Ant

Brief:

The black house ant, Ochetellus glaber, is a species of ant found in both urban and rural areas in Australia. This ant has a prominent node (petiole), which is a distinguishing feature from the white-footed house ant. This ant is slightly smaller and stockier than the white-footed house ant with adults usually growing to 2.5 mm to 3 mm long.

Habits

Infesting home and buildings in search of food and water, black house ants are especially attracted to sweet foods but also eat honeydew which is excreted from sap-sucking insects, as a result they are known to tent to aphids and bugs on domestic plants. Black house ants can be aggressive towards other species of ant if disturbed. They are omnivorous, feeding on insects and worms, as well as vegetation, such as small seeds.

Habitat

Black house ants usually nest under stones or dry logs. The species can commonly be found in gardens.

Threats

Black House Ants live in coexistent relationships with other common suburban ants, like the Green-headed ant.

Prevention

Others

Some photos and information are provided by Bayer.

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