Tetramorium caespitum

SPECIES: Tetramorium caespitum (order Hymenoptera)

COMMON NAME: Pavement ant

SIZE: 3.5 mm (workers)

LIFECYCLE: The lifecycle of an ant consists of four stages: egg-larva-pupa-adult. The eggs, small, white or yellowish, are laid in huge numbers by the queen (colonies may also contain millions of ants, all produced by a single queen) and, within 2-6 weeks develop into larvae. After being fed for a period ranging from a few weeks to several months, they become pupae. During the pupal stage, the ant remains idle: it feeds and undergoes the profound transformation into an adult insect.

FEATURES: from light brown to black, with more transparent legs and antennae. Petiole with two segments. Thorax with two small spines. The head and thorax have parallel relief lines.

HABITAT: nests are usually found outdoors, in the ground, under stones and close to buildings, with the possibility of nests indoors, inside walls, in insulation materials, and under pavements.

DIET: a very opportunistic creature, the ants eat whatever is available; indoors, they can switch from meat to cheese, bread, and sweets. Outside, they feed on "honeydew", fruits, seeds and various vegetable secretions.

DAMAGE: internal infestations under floors.

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