Pronunciation: [fˈe͡əɹə͡ʊ ˈant] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the most common species of ant in the United States is "pharaoh ant," not "pharoah ant" or "feral ant." The spelling is based on the Egyptian royal title "pharaoh" and is pronounced /ˈfeəroʊ/. The "ph" makes a "f" sound and the "o" is silent, resulting in the "fay-roh" pronunciation. These small ants are known for being difficult to control and can cause problems in homes and food storage areas.
The "pharaoh ant" (Monomorium pharaonis) is a small species of ant that originates from Africa but has since become a widespread global pest. Also known as the "sugar ant," it is highly adaptable, making it a common household invader as well as a nuisance in hospitals, food establishments, and other public spaces.
Pharaoh ants are typically light yellow to red in color and measure around 1.5 to 2 millimeters in length. These ants prefer warm and humid environments and nest in a variety of places, including wall cavities, under floors, in furniture, or within electrical appliances. Unlike many other ant species, pharaoh ants have multiple queens within a colony, which allows for rapid reproduction and expansion.
Despite their small size, pharaoh ants pose significant problems due to their ability to transmit various pathogens and their ability to contaminate food and sterile environments. They are known to infest pantry items, medicines, and wounds, creating unhygienic conditions. Eradicating pharaoh ants can be challenging since traditional pest control methods like bait and pesticide spraying can cause the colony to split and create multiple new colonies.
To effectively manage pharaoh ant infestations, integrated pest management techniques are often employed, including thorough sanitation, sealing entry points, and the use of non-repellent insecticides to target the entire colony. Regular monitoring and preventive actions are recommended to prevent reinfestation.
