SURVEY on DIVERSITY of STRUCTURE-INFESTING PEST ANTS and THEIR PEST STATUS in MALAYSIA

Abstract:
Structure-infesting ants are an important group of insect pests in many parts of the world, particularly in residential premises, food outlets, and factories. In Malaysia, it is gradually becoming a major problem especially in urban settings (Lee et al., 1999; Lee and Robinson, 2001). Currently, ant control constitutes about 10-15% of the total business turnover of the pest control industry in Malaysia. Problems associated with ant infestations include food contamination, stings, bites, allergies and contamination of surgical instruments in hospitals. Information on species composition and correct identification of structure-infesting ants are essential to better planning of an integrated control programme against these pests, because different ant species often exhibit varying behavioural characteristics as well as different feeding preferences. In addition, knowledge about homeowners’ perceptions of ant infestation is also important. Despite that, little is known about the species composition of structure-infesting ants in Malaysia. In this study, we surveyed the diversity of structure-infesting pest ants, species compositions, and their pest status.