Kuala Lumpur plays host to a variety of ant species. The black house ant, fire ant, ghost ant, and carpenter ant are among the most frequently seen. This blog post intends to explore the various ant species commonly found in Kuala Lumpur.
Black House Ant
Black house ants (Ochetellus glaber) are a species of ant that is commonly found in urban areas. Black house ants get their name from the fact that they often build their nests in houses, in cracks and crevices around windows and doors. These ants are regarded as a nuisance and scavenge in kitchens, garbage and also dog excrement, therefore potentially spreading diseases such as salmonella.
The most effective control measure is to find the colony and treat it. Black house ants are not particularly difficult to control, but it is important to act quickly if you have an infestation, as they can reproduce quickly. If you think you have black house ants in your home, contact a pest control professional for advice on the best course of action.
Fire Ant
Fire ants are dangerous pests that can cause serious damage to both crops and homes.
Fire ants are most commonly found in warm, humid climates, and they build their nests in mounds of up to 40 cm. If aggravated, fire ants will sting their victims, causing a painful pustule to form within 48 hours.
In addition to their painful stings, fire ants also pose a serious threat to crops and homes.
These ants are known for destroying crops and invading homes, and they can be difficult to control. If you live in an area where fire ants are a problem, it is important to take precautions to protect your property from these pests. This may include using baits and traps, as well as regularly inspecting your property for signs of infestation.
Carpenter Ant
Carpenter ants are among the largest species of ant, and they are often considered to be a nuisance pest. These ants are attracted to both moist and dry wood, but they prefer moist wood that has been dampened by water leaks. Carpenter ants will excavate galleries in the wood, and these galleries will have a smooth appearance.
These ants are also known to hollow out sections of trees. Carpenter ants are most active at night, but they can also be seen during the day in early spring or summer. Signs that carpenter ants are present include sawdust, wet wood, or unusual noises coming from the walls.
Carpenter ants feed primarily on honeydew, but they will also eat plant secretions, fruit juices, and insect remains. It is important to note that carpenter ants do not eat wood. In homes, these ants are attracted to sweet substances, fats, and grease.
Odorous House Ant
Odorous House Ants get their name from the fruity, coconut-like smell they produce when crushed. These ants are common household pests that are attracted to sweets and other sugary foods. They are also attracted to moisture, so they often nests in house plants or even the lids of toilets.
Odorous House Ant colonies can range in size from 2,000 to 10,000 ants, and these ants can be difficult to control once they establish themselves in a home. This is because they reproduce quickly and can create multiple nests. The best way to control odorous house ants is to contact a pest control professional from Kuala Lumpur who can identify the source of the infestation and provide treatment options.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are a variety of different ants that are commonly found in Kuala Lumpur. If you think you have an infestation of any of these ants, it is important to contact a pest control professional for advice on the best course of action. Do not try to control the problem yourself, as this can often make the situation worse. Now that you know more about the most common ants in Kuala Lumpur, you can be on the lookout for them and take steps to prevent them from entering your home.