Ants of Marin County

Based on species list from AntWeb.org

Solenopsis molesta

Solenopsis molesta, also known as thief ants, get their names from their habit of nesting close to other ant nests, from which they steal food. They are also called grease ants because they are attracted to grease.

pavement ant

The pavement ant, Tetramorium caespitum, is a common household pest. Its name comes from the fact that colonies usually make their homes in pavement. It is distinguished by one pair of spines on the back, two nodes on the petiole, and grooves on the head and thorax . The species is native to Europe, but was introduced to North America in the 18th century.

Edited by Brian Lee Fisher, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA)