Western Region IPM Ant Workshop

University of California, RiversideAugust 20-21, 2008

Laurel D. Hansen

Spokane Falls Community College

Research and extension priorities for ant management

Identification/Education

Management personnel/

technicians/homeowners

Identification/biology/seasonal applications

1. Control of swarmers

2. Ants in winter months

Velvety tree antsLiometopum occidentaleL. luctuosum

Large infestations

Research: Velvety tree antsBiology

Behavior

Distribution

Management

Odorous house ant: 3 mm

Velvety tree ant, L. occidentale: 2.5-5.5 mm

Velvety tree ant, (pine tree ant) L. luctuosum: 2.5-4.5 mm

Odorous House AntsTapinoma sessile

Research: WDO or nuisance

Natural habitats

Chemical/cultural management

Pavement antsTetramorium caespitumTetramorium sp. E

Research: Seasonal Control

Winged forms emerging in structures

Slab construction

Activity in winter months

Moisture/cornfield antsLasius spp.

Research:

Species: WDO/nuisance

Management with removal of wood?

Injection techniques for buried wood?

Carpenter antsCamponotus spp.

Research:

Seasonal management

Reproductives in structures in winter

Wall injection at emerging sites vs full drill/inject treatment with liquid or dust

December/January

Research: (continued)

Spot/partial treatment vs full perimeter sprays

Label directions: ? up and ? feet out

Equipment: power vs hand held

Baits

Use of baits

Labor intensive: seasonal-foragers only

Transfer of material

Combination with other treatments

Problem: Competition with natural foods or bait acceptance

Inspections:

More emphasis on inspections:Initial plus follow-up

Replace regular service calls with inspectionsEducation of clients

Change is good