Argentine ant info
Argentine ants (Linepithema humile) are the most common ants in California. They are an invasive species that are a major agricultural pest and a nuisance in homes.
Argentine ants are a major agricultural pest, especially in citrus orchards They can also tend plant pest insects, such as mealybugs, scales, and aphids They have established super-colonies hundreds of miles long, stretching from San Diego to the Oregon border They are considered to be one of the 100 worst alien invasive species on Earth.
Often found in trees and shrubs that are infested with honeydew-producing insectsFeed each other by transferring food mouth to mouth.
Small, dull brown ants that are all the same sizePetiole with one erect nodeThorax uneven in shape when viewed from the sideMusty odor when crushed
Argentine ant pest control Carpinteria
Fire ant info
California has multiple species of fire ants, including the southern fire ant and the red imported fire ant. Both species are aggressive and can sting.
Southern fire ant (Solenopsis xyloni) Also known as the Californian fire ant or cotton antFound in coastal and inland regions of CaliforniaSimilar in appearance to the red imported fire antHas a reddish head and thorax and a dark brown abdomenMounds are irregular cratersLess painful sting than the red imported fire antRed imported fire ant (S. invicta) Almost uniform dark reddish-brownMounds are frequently built up into domesMore aggressive than the southern fire antStings are particularly hazardous to fieldworkersA significant risk to California agriculture
Treatment of fire ants should be handled by a trained, licensed pest management professional To reduce your risk of being stung, wear gloves and closed-toe shoes with socks Before allowing children to play outside, survey the area for ant mounds
Fire ant Pest Control Carpinteria
odorous house ant
Odorous house ants are a common household pest in California that are known for their strong odor. They are small, non-stinging ants that are dark brown or black in color.
Small, about 1/8 inch longDark brown to black in colorEmit a strong, unpleasant odor when crushedThorax is uneven in shape when viewed from the side
Odorous house ant Pest Control Carpinteria