Ghost Ants

Tapinoma melanocephalum

Ghost Ants

Legal Status: No Status

Status in New Zealand: Not in New Zealand

Organism: Insects, worms and other land invertebrates

Pest and disease search

Report any sightings to hotline, ph 0800 809 966.

General Information

Ghost ants are very small – just 1.5 to 2mm long – with almost translucent abdomen and legs. But overseas they are a serious household nuisance. They build large colonies and forage around the house seeking sweet foods and proteins.

They run fast and erratically when disturbed and workers may emit an acrid coconut-like smell when crushed. They do not pose a significant risk to human health.