Odorous House Ant

 Identification and Control

Proper identification is an important first step in controlling ants.

Tapinoma sessile

How to Identify an 

Odorous House Ant

The odorous house ant is about 1/8th of an inch long and black, with a small section of its abdomen being a lighter color. They have segmented antennae, and their thorax has four bumps that are evenly spaced. Unlike some other species of ants, they cannot fly.

If crushed, these ants smell distinctively like rotten coconut, hence being dubbed the Odorous House Ant.

Where do they come from?

How to keep them out

Be sure to remove any standing water or leaks from your house, as these ants love moisture. Firewood, leafy plants, and other sources of ant food should be kept 5-10ft from your home. Finally, seal any cracks or openings in your foundation, as these ants can use even the tiniest opening to gain entry.

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What do they look like?

Close up head of an odorous house ant
Worker odorous house ant carrying food
Dorsal view of an odorous house ant

Where do they live?

Wood, board, stone, cardboard, rocks, bricks, loose bark, moisture, wall voids, beneath toilets, bathtraps, wood damaged by termites

Name:

Tapinoma sessile

Size:

2.4-3.3 mm

Diet:

Honeydew, sweets, insects

How to keep them out

Be sure to remove any standing water or leaks from your house, as these ants love moisture. Firewood, leafy plants, and other sources of ant food should be kept 5-10ft from your home. Finally, seal any cracks or openings in your foundation, as these ants can use even the tiniest opening to gain entry.

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