Black ants forage on garden plants.
Several different species of black ants live on plants. The ants use the foliage to forage for insects that use the plants for food. Some ants cause problems, making natural or pesticide control a necessity.
Species
One type of ant, known as the little black ant, nests in mulch, logs, stumps and brushy areas where piled material exists. The ants feed on insects and honeydew along with pollen and plant secretions. Carpenter ants, another type of black ant, build their nests in decaying wood. The ants forage on plant roots if their nest is next to the plant. Otherwise, they eat the sweet excretion that aphids leave on plant foliage.
Benefits
Most black ants benefit the garden, including acting as one way to control other pests. Ants improve soil with their nests, helping to aerate the ground. Ants also help with weed control by eating seeds before they germinate.
Control
Natural control of black ants includes use of beneficial nematodes. Nematodes enter the ant's body, where they spread a toxin that eventually kills the ant. Pesticides also help control ants, although they can harm other beneficial insects.
Tags: also help, ants forage, black ants, their nests