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Ghost ants (Tapinoma melanocephalum) are tiny 1/16 inch ants with black heads and pale, almost translucent abdomens. Common throughout South and Central Florida — and increasingly in the Panhandle. Here is the identification and control guide.
How to identify ghost ants
- Tiny — 1/16 inch (about 1.5mm).
- Dark head and thorax with pale, semi-translucent abdomen.
- Move erratically and quickly.
- Common in kitchens around sweet spills.
- Sometimes called “sugar ants” or “house ants.”
Why they invade homes
- Attracted to sugar, sweet foods, and sometimes grease.
- Nest in moist areas — under sinks, behind dishwashers, inside potted plants.
- Multiple-queen colonies that split easily — making elimination tricky.
Treatment strategy
Step 1: Sweet liquid bait (best for ghost ants)
Terro Liquid Ant Bait is the most-effective ghost ant treatment. Sweet borax-based liquid the workers carry back to the nest.
Step 2: Place bait near trail entry points
Do NOT spray with insecticide — splits the colony into multiple sub-colonies and makes problem worse.
Step 3: Eliminate moisture sources
Fix leaky pipes under sinks. Reduce humidity around houseplants. Check drip pans under appliances.
Step 4: Remove sweet food access
Wipe up spills immediately. Store sweet items in sealed containers. Clean appliance crevices.
What NOT to do
- Spray with general insecticide — splits colony, makes worse.
- Use granular bait — ghost ants prefer liquid sweet baits.
- Crush trails — they release alarm pheromones that attract more ants.
Verdict
For ghost ants, Terro Liquid Ant Bait + moisture source elimination is the proven treatment. Avoid spraying insecticide. Patience matters — full colony elimination takes 2-4 weeks of consistent baiting.
Reminder: Always read product labels and follow manufacturer safety instructions. For dangerous pests or large infestations, hire a licensed professional.