Boric acid solutions have been found to be effective in treating ghost ant infestations.
Ghost ants are tropical ants that are widely distributed throughout the world in hot climates and greenhouses. Especially in tropical and subtropical regions, ghost ants are considered a major household pest as they can spoil food and become a general nuisance. As with other ants, various techniques can be used to discourage and control ghost ants, but these techniques are only effective when combined with diligence and determination.
This ant, formally known as Tapinoma melanocephalum, has a very characteristic coloration that makes it easily recognizable. The front of the body is dark brown, while the back of the body is translucent to white. This unusual coloration is no doubt responsible for the common name, although people also say that ghost ants are very ghost-like, darting in and out of the house quickly. Ghost ants are also extremely small and appear smaller thanks to their coloration, as people can only see the front of their body from a distance. When crushed, the ants give off a characteristic pungent odor that some people compare to rotting tropical fruit.
These ants are very adaptable nesting ants, being able to nest in a wide variety of habitats. They prefer moist environments, so they may come indoors during dry weather or choose a moist greenhouse to make nests. Although ghost ants can eat many different foods, including other ants, they seem to have a preference for sweets, seeking out sugar, cakes, cookies, candy, etc.
Keeping your house as clean as possible can be one way to deter ghost ants. Closing candy in airtight containers is also a good idea, as it prevents ants from becoming a regular food source. Countertops and stoves should be cleaned regularly, and dishes should be washed quickly so they don’t attract ants. Some people are also able to deter ants by setting lines on the pimples, which seem to interrupt the chemical signals the ants use to communicate.
The best bait for ghost ants is a boric acid-based bait. Many hardware stores sell boric acid pest control solutions, sometimes in ready-to-use containers. Boric acid baits will need to be diluted to ensure workers carry the bait back to the nest. If you can find the nest, you can also place the bait around it, making sure the ants get a good dose of bait. Be sure to place the bait in areas that are out of reach of children and pets.