Classification
Species category: Ant
Scientific name: Iridomyrmex spp.
Description
Black in colour, this ant species produces a distinctive and pungent odour when crushed. Typically, an adult will reach 4mm in length. They have compound eyes placed relatively high on the head away from the mandible.
They are sometimes confused with the Argentine ants but differ in colour and odour when crushed.
A native Australian species, they are now widely distributed across all states.
They can build their nests outside under stones but can also be found in wall cavities, they often only come indoors in search of a water source.
Behaviour
Typically omnivores, they can eat proteins and will occasionally eat sugars from natural sources, particularly for the moisture component. This species can be aggressive and are excellent scavengers.
Risks
More of a nuisance than a pest, they can create large colonies in the soil which can displace turf and destabilize paving.
Species category: Ant
Scientific name: Iridomyrmex spp.
Description
Black in colour, this ant species produces a distinctive and pungent odour when crushed. Typically, an adult will reach 4mm in length. They have compound eyes placed relatively high on the head away from the mandible.
They are sometimes confused with the Argentine ants but differ in colour and odour when crushed.
A native Australian species, they are now widely distributed across all states.
They can build their nests outside under stones but can also be found in wall cavities, they often only come indoors in search of a water source.
Behaviour
Typically omnivores, they can eat proteins and will occasionally eat sugars from natural sources, particularly for the moisture component. This species can be aggressive and are excellent scavengers.
Risks
More of a nuisance than a pest, they can create large colonies in the soil which can displace turf and destabilize paving.
