Ants are among the most common insects in urban environments. Extremely organized, they live in colonies composed of hundreds or thousands of individuals that are divided into castes with well-defined roles: workers, soldiers, queens and, occasionally, winged reproductive males.
Despite their small size, they can cause major inconveniences. They invade pantries, contaminate food, damage structures and appliances, and can even transmit microorganisms harmful to health.
Main urban ant species
According to technical data and field observations, around 20 species are associated with domestic environments in Brazil. Below are the most common ones:
Ghost ant (Tapinoma melanocephalum)
With a translucent body and dark head, this species is very small and almost invisible. It forms trails in humid and hard‑to‑reach areas such as tile gaps and electrical outlets. It has nocturnal habits and feeds on sugars.
Pharaoh ant (Monomorium pharaonis)
Extremely difficult to control, this species nests inside walls and pipes. It is attracted to sweets and greasy foods. It has high adaptability and resistance to many insecticides.
Fire ant (Solenopsis spp.)
Known for its painful sting, this ant has a stinger and aggressive behavior. It can cause allergic reactions in some people and is common in outdoor areas and gardens.
Big‑headed ant (Pheidole spp.)
Common in outdoor environments and near decomposing organic materials. It often invades homes in search of food. The colony is formed by workers of different sizes.
Carpenter ant (Camponotus spp.)
It gnaws through wood to make space and form nests. It can damage furniture, doors and ceilings. Although it does not consume wood, it causes damage similar to termites.
How do ants enter your home?
Ants are attracted by food residues, sugar, grease, moisture and even electronics (some species shelter inside motors and circuits).
They can pass through tiny gaps and, once inside, form well‑defined trails to food sources. Ant dispersion occurs for two main reasons:
- Colony expansion: when the colony becomes too large, part of it moves to establish new nests;
- Search for food or shelter: climate changes, cleaning or renovations can cause ants to move.
Health and environmental risks
Although they may seem harmless, ants can:
- Contaminate food and utensils;
- Act as vectors of bacteria, fungi and viruses;
- Cause allergic reactions through stings (in aggressive species);
- Damage electrical systems (by invading appliances);
- Damage wooden furniture and structures.
Studies show that ants can carry microorganisms such as Salmonella, Staphylococcus and Escherichia coli, which pose risks in kitchens, bathrooms and hospital areas.
How to eliminate ants and prevent infestations
Effective ant control requires two fronts of action:
1. Prevention
- Thorough cleaning of floors, countertops and pantries;
- Sealing cracks, crevices and cable openings;
- Proper food storage in sealed containers;
- Inspection of furniture, pots and moist areas.
2. Chemical action with specific products
The JIMO line includes efficient solutions for ant control in indoor and outdoor areas. The products act quickly and leave a residual effect, eliminating active colonies and preventing new infestations.
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JIMO products to combat ants
Fighting ants goes far beyond eliminating visible trails. It is necessary to act at the root of the problem, treating nests and preventing the pest from returning.
With JIMO products, you have technology, efficiency and practicality to keep your home protected all year long.
- JIMO Gás Fumigante: ideal for enclosed and hard‑to‑reach areas. Acts as a fumigant, penetrating cracks, outlets and hidden nests.
- JIMO Dedetizador: long‑lasting and broad‑spectrum action. Effective against ants and other crawling insects. Can be applied on baseboards, cracks, furniture and sinks.
- JIMO Inseticida em Pó: perfect for dry and hard‑to‑reach areas. The powder adheres to ants’ bodies and is carried back to the nest, eliminating the entire colony.
- JIMO Antiformiga: ideal and tailor‑made solution for this type of pest.
Discover the complete Mata Insetos JIMO line
Practical solutions for your home
JIMO offers products designed to make your daily routine easier, with options for different types of application, insects/pests, surfaces and environments.
