Argentine Ants: A Persistent  Pest

Argentine ants, native to South America, are a significant pest problem in homes and gardens across New Zealand. Recognizable by their honey-brown color, these ants form vast colonies that can include thousands of workers and multiple queens. Their non-aggressive behavior towards each other allows for the formation of massive super colonies, often marked by thick trails of ants linking dispersed nests.

Habitat and Behavior These ants prefer dry, warm areas and typically establish their nests outdoors in garden soil near food sources. Common nesting spots include retaining walls, pot plants, and under garden weed mats. Argentine ants are highly adaptable and will relocate their nests to more favorable conditions as needed.

Diet and Impact While they consume sugar-rich foods, their primary dietary preferences lean towards fats and proteins. This makes them highly invasive, not only towards other small arthropods but also impacting native ant species and disrupting local ecosystems. The presence of Argentine ants is often noticed when thick streams suddenly appear in homes, trailing along walls and skirtings, and just as quickly disappearing, leaving residents bewildered.

Unique Characteristics and Challenges Argentine ants are known for their ability to form the largest known super colonies. In Europe, a single genetic colony stretches across the coast from northern France through Spain to Italy. Similarly, in New Zealand, these ants share a very similar genome, which allows them to cooperate seamlessly, often merging smaller nests into one formidable super colony around residential areas. This can lead to significant challenges for homeowners as these ants are aggressive feeders and their nests grow larger, increasing their need for more food sources.

Effective Control Strategies At ACES, we leverage the Argentine ants’ aggressive nature and cooperative feeding behaviors using specially designed baits that they prefer. These baits are shared within the colony through trophallaxis, ensuring effective dissemination of control measures, leading to the decimation of the colony.

Need Help with Argentine Ants? If Argentine ants are giving you trouble, don't wait. Contact ACES Ants today, and let our passion for pest control bring you the peace of mind you deserve!