Scientific Name: Monomorium pharaonis

Phylum: Arthropoda

Class: Insecta

Order: Hymenoptera

Family: Formicidae

Identifying Characteristics

• Yellow to Yellowish-Brown in color with black and red stripes on abdomen
• 12 Segmented Antennae with 3 segmented club (distinct shaped club)
• Minuscule size (2mm)
• Head and thorax can appear almost transparent compared to abdomen
• Multi-Queen Species
• Monomorphic Workers
• Nest almost exclusively indoors in North America
• Disturbed colonies will “bud” or “splinter” into previously unoccupied areas and establish many smaller colonies from the original.

Introduction:

Pharaoh Ants originated on the African continent. Their name stems from a myth that they were one of the plagues of Egypt in the time of the Pharaohs. They have spread globally due to agricultural commerce and their habit of budding or splitting whenever they are threatened. Pharaoh ants have been strongly implicated in the spread of various disease pathogens.

Habitat:

Pharaoh Ants prefer to build their colonies in warm areas inside of buildings near sources of food and water, they’re usually found in wall voids, baseboards, furniture, under floors, or in linens. In some areas, this ant has become a major pest of residences, commercial bakeries, factories, office buildings, and hospitals or other areas where food is handled. Infestations in hospitals have become a chronic issue due to the Pharaoh Ant`s small size, they pose a contamination risk where they will enter wounds, IV bottles, and gather saliva from the mouths of sleeping patients. They’re potential disease vectors carrying pathogenic bacteria on their exoskeleton and entering patients wounds, mouths or eyes. The size of their colonies tends to be large, but can vary from a few dozen to several thousand, or even several hundred thousand ants.

Diet:

Pharaoh ants are opportunistic omnivores eating many different types of food, but they prefer sweets. They will also eat other insects unfortunate enough to stumble into their colonies or trails.

Control:

Hutchins Pest Specialist are trained to handle Pharaoh ants and many other pest species. Contact us to get your evaluation and specialized treatment plan started today. Our Expert Technician’s can help you and your family enjoy a safe and pest-free home.

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