By: Dr. Dina Richman
A “crazy” new invasive ant species has been popping up in growing numbers in Florida, Texas and other Southern states in the past few years. Caribbean crazy ants (Nylanderia pubens [Forel]) are part of a group of supercolony ants referred to as “crazy ants,” thanks to their quick and erratic movements.
Sometimes known as the Rasberry crazy ant (which is technically known as Nylanderia spp. near pubens), the Caribbean crazy ant follows trails in extremely large numbers. Hundreds of thousands of ants in thick foraging trails can be seen along sidewalks, around buildings and on trees and shrubs.
Caribbean crazy ants are golden-brown to reddish-brown in color. They range in size from 1/16- to 1/8-in. long. Their body surface is smooth and glossy, and covered with dense hairs.
Though little is known about Caribbean crazy ants, they appear to nest in multiple locations and have numerous queens. We assume that this tiny ant scavenges for food by feeding on dead insects and honeydew from insects like aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs and scales.
Professionals called to control ant populations can identify the Caribbean crazy ant by the following traits:
• They exhibit erratic actions.
• They forage in massive numbers, sometimes in the millions.
• Their trails follow structural guidelines.
• They nest primarily outdoors, under any object that retains moisture.
• Workers are attracted to sweet parts of plants, including nectarines, damaged and over-ripe fruit, as well as honeydew-producing insects.
• Workers will forage indoors, in homes and other structures.
• They make large piles of their own dead around the foraging area.
Caribbean crazy ants can be very difficult to control because of their extremely large numbers, and because they are able to disperse more efficiently because of their quick movements.
For control measures, it helps if your customers cut back plants and trees that touch any exterior walls. They should also keep sprinklers or leaky hoses from contacting wood and wooden structures. Inside, clean any food crumbs, wipe off any excess water from counters, etc., and seal any existing foundation crevices to reduce infestation.
We have found that a combination of control products is the best strategy for suppressing Caribbean crazy ant infestations. A liquid residual product combined with an effective granular works best for reducing numbers of this invasive pest. Also, control of the honeydew-producing pest (aphids, whiteflies, mealybugs, scales) could help curb ant populations by reducing their food resources.
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