What Are Citronella Ants?

Citronella ants, also known as Lasius interjectus, are a species of ant commonly found throughout the Pittsburgh, PA area. These ants are unique due to the distinct lemon or citronella-like odor they emit when crushed, which is where they get their name. Unlike other ants that might invade your pantry, Citronella ants primarily feed on honeydew, a sugary substance produced by aphids and other plant-sucking insects.

Size and Appearance

• Color: Citronella ants range in color from yellow to a light brown, making them relatively easy to identify compared to other common ants.
• Size: These ants typically measure around 1/8 inch in length, with the workers being the smallest. Winged swarmers, which are the reproductive members of the colony, can be slightly larger and are often mistaken for termites when they appear in large numbers.
• Wings: The winged Citronella ants, also known as swarmers, usually appear during their mating season, which occurs in late summer or early fall. These swarmers have a darker head and thorax compared to the workers and are often seen emerging from the ground or from within walls.

Habits and Behavior

Citronella ants are primarily soil-dwelling insects that establish their colonies in moist areas. They are often found in locations such as:

• Under Rocks and Logs: Citronella ants prefer to nest in damp environments, making the soil under rocks, logs, and other debris an ideal location for their colonies.
• Near Foundations and Slabs: You might notice Citronella ants around your home’s foundation, especially in areas where the soil is damp or where there is a moisture problem.
• Inside Wall Voids: While they prefer outdoor environments, Citronella ants can occasionally establish colonies inside wall voids, especially if there is a moisture issue within your home.

Life Cycle and Reproduction

The life cycle of Citronella ants includes the following stages:

1. Egg: The queen lays eggs that develop into larvae.
2. Larva: The larvae are cared for by worker ants until they develop into pupae.
3. Pupa: The pupae then transform into adult ants.
4. Adult: Adults include workers, queens, and males. The winged swarmers, which are future queens and males, take flight during mating season to establish new colonies.

Swarming Behavior

One of the most noticeable behaviors of Citronella ants is their swarming activity. During the late summer and early fall, winged swarmers take flight in large numbers to mate and establish new colonies. While this swarming is a natural part of their life cycle, it can be alarming to homeowners, especially when it occurs inside the home.

Diet

Citronella ants primarily feed on honeydew, which they collect from aphids and other similar insects. They tend to protect these honeydew-producing insects in exchange for the sweet substance, which is crucial for the colony’s nourishment. Unlike many other ants, Citronella ants are not typically interested in human food sources, which is why they are less likely to invade kitchens and pantries.