Argentine Ant Identification in Florida

The Argentine ant, Linepithema humile, is an invasive species found all around the world, native to Northern Argentina, Brazil, Uraguay, and Paraguay. These ants are considered a nuisance pest in Florida because while they won't sting or bite, they'll look for food or water inside homes.

Argentine ant workers are 2.2-2.6 mm long and light to dark brown with reddish coloring and darker color at the tip of the gaster.

These ants are a type of "trailing ant," meaning they like to walk in a literal line, exactly how you'd typically picture an ant trail. This behavior is beneficial for the ants, as it helps them stay together as a group and find food sources quickly and efficiently.

It also means that when you see Argentine ants, it's common to see them in large numbers, or in long trails. If you see any large groups of ants together, unless they're in an ant mound, consider that they could be Argentine ants.

One thing that distinguishes them from other ant species is that they don't swarm. During mating season, many ant species such as carpenter ants and big headed ants will "swarm" to mate. Argentine ants won't swarm; instead, they'll mate within the nest.

The most natural form of ant control for Argentine ants is prevention. The reason Argentine ants are entering your home in the first place is for food, water, and shelter. So, how do you prevent Argentine ants from coming into your home in the first place?

• Eliminate clutter where Argentine ants can nest. This includes unused cardboard boxes and containers, and even debris in your yard like piles of fallen leaves and firewood.
• Limit moisture that attracts Argentine ants. Avoid overwatering plants, clear your gutters regularly, and inspect your pipes for leaks.
• Trim trees and bushes. Argentine ants feed on honeydew produced by mealybugs, aphids, and other scale insects. All of these insects produce honeydew by sucking the sap out of your plants. Keep these trees and shrubs away from your home's exterior foundation so that the Argentine ants won't be drawn directly to your front door.
• Seal entry points. Avoid giving Argentine ants any way into your home at all! Use caulk to seal any cracks, crevices, or gaps in your exterior foundation, doors, or windows. Make sure any screens are in working order.
• Keep a clean kitchen. Clean your kitchen each night to avoid attracting Argentine ants. Make sure the floor and counters are free of crumbs and store leftovers in airtight containers.

The fastest way to get rid of Argentine ants is to call an exterminator. If you live in Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, or Leon County, Native Pest Management is the best ant control company near you for Argentine ants.

We use a combination of preventative strategies and direct ant control methods that target Argentine ant infestations and eliminate them completely. Our ant control experts will come to your home equipped with caulk, non-repellent baits, and sprays, and other materials.

Our services are guaranteed effective, meaning if you're unhappy with your service, you can give us a call and we'll reservice your home for free!

For more information on our ant control services for Argentine ants, reach out to our office today and you'll receive a free quote!