The presence of certain ant species in human habitations can pose various challenges and risks, especially in sensitive environments such as hospitals or kitchens where cleanliness is paramount. Some of these challenges include:

Food Contamination: Ants can raid stored food in homes, restaurants, or food storage facilities, leading to contamination and spoilage of food items. This poses health risks and economic losses.

Structural Damage: Certain ant species, like carpenter ants, can damage wooden structures in buildings by excavating nests within them. This can compromise the integrity of the building over time and require costly repairs.

Health Risks: Ants that bite or sting, such as fire ants, can pose health risks to humans, causing painful reactions and allergic responses in some individuals. This is particularly concerning in environments where vulnerable populations, such as children or the elderly, are present.

Agricultural Damage: Some ant species can directly damage agricultural crops by feeding on plant tissues, seeds, or fruits. This can lead to reduced crop yields and economic losses for farmers.

To manage ant populations in urban environments and mitigate these risks, integrated pest management (IPM) strategies are often employed. These strategies involve the use of various methods.