Acrobat Ants
Crematogaster ashmeadi
Appearance:
Acrobat ants have very shiny bodies that are variable in color from light red to brown or black. They have a heart-shaped abdomen that often bends up over their thorax when agitated. They also have a stinger.
Size:
Range from 1/8-inch to more than 1/4-inch in length
Behavior:
Acrobat ants eat a wide variety of foods, including sweets and proteins, though they prefer honeydew from sap-sucking insects. They will trail along tree limbs, utility lines, and fences; and enter structures through cracks and holes around utility lines or pipes. They are quick to bite, and emit a strong odor when disturbed.
Habitat:
Acrobat ants are the most dominant arboreal ant species in the forests of Northern Florida, and usually build their nests in the trees. They are extremely territorial, and only one colony will exist in a tree. They do not nest in sound wood, but are found in damp or rotting wood using cavities excavated by other insects. If damp or rotting wood is present these ants can invest buildings.
Unique Characteristics:
Acrobat ants have a peculiar habit of bending their heart-shaped abdomen up over their body when disturbed.
Control:
Do you live in Florida and think this ant may be invading your home? Hulett Environmental Services offers specialty pest control treatments designed to control and eliminate this pest!