Food preference and foraging activity of ants: Recommendations for field applications of low-toxicity baits

Abstract

*[We assessed ground & vine foraging activity & food preferences for the 3 ant species (Linepithema humile (Mayr), Anoplolepis custodiens (F. Smith), & Crematogaster peringueyi Emery) under field conditions. We found that L. humile's vineyard foraging activity was high & that movement of ant bait by C. peringueyi & A. custodiens in the vineyard was relatively low. Consequently, more bait stations need to be dispensed for more effective control of C. peringueyi & A. custodiens than for L. humile. Different bait densities are discussed for the various ant species. Food preference trials indicated that vineyard foraging ants preferred wet bait attractants over dry ones, making liquids the most ideal carriers for baiting these ants. Linepithema humile was attracted to 25% sugar water, while C. peringueyi was attracted to both 25% sugar water & honey. Anoplolepis custodiens was attracted to tuna, but was also attracted to 25% sugar water.]