Black house ant (Ochetellus glaber)

Native

Black house ants are found across Australia, but more commonly in coastal areas of the east coast round to Adelaide, although it has been recorded in Tasmania and southwest of Western Australia.

Black house ants are found naturally in open or savannah woodland areas. They will nest both on the ground (under rocks and logs) and above ground in hollows in trees. They commonly nest in urban areas, in gardens and buildings. In buildings they often nest in wall cavities and also roof voids, where they will nest on or between sheet insulation. They are also known to infest electrical goods.

The black house ant produce single queen, single nest colonies. Typically they will found new colonies through nuptial flights.

Colour: Dark brown to black (brown legs and antennae)

Size: 2.0 – 2.5 mm

Nodes on petiole: 1 (prominent and flat)

Although omnivorous, black house ants have a strong preference for sugar and will often be seen trailing into trees to collect honey dew from sap feeding insects.

• Sometimes confused with the white footed house ant, but can be distinguished by its prominent, flat petiole
• Can often be seen trailing on the outside walls of buildings as they move between their nest and feeding sites

• Black house ants do not bite or sting

No are no tips to prevent them nesting in buildings, but good hygiene, in terms of clearing away food and storing food in closed containers will prevent ants foraging inside.

Can sometimes be confused with the white footed house ant and Argentine ant