African black sugar ant (Lepisiota incisa) is a pest of national significance and all known infestations are under eradication.
DPIRD area technical manager John van Schagen encouraged residents in Bibra Lake and nearby suburbs of Spearwood and Coolbellup to report any suspected sightings of the pest, after it was discovered in an industrial area.
“We ask people to watch for high numbers of ants on their property, particularly ants that all look the same, as this species is known for displacing other ant species in areas where it establishes,” he said.
“African black sugar ants are ordinary looking ants that are shiny dark brown or black in colour, about three millimetres in length, with no real odour when crushed.
“We advise people not to move infested goods or materials, as these ants are notorious hitchhikers and can be inadvertently moved and start new infestations."
African black sugar ant outcompetes native ants and has significant potential to establish in a wide variety of habitats, including undisturbed bush areas as well as industrial and residential areas.
The pest can also cause damage to infrastructure, infesting electrical boxes and damaging plastic components and wiring.
“These tiny invaders are known to be aggressive towards other ant species,” Mr van Schagen said.
“They are highly invasive in and around buildings and can nest in cardboard, rubbish, building materials, plants and garden waste.”
Since 2020, African black sugar ant has been found in Maddington, Welshpool, Fremantle, Wattleup, Forrestfield, Hazelmere, Maida Vale, Jandakot, Balcatta, Landsdale, Kenwick and Narrogin.
Report suspect black sugar ant sightings via DPIRD’s MyPestGuide app or to its Pest and Disease Information Service on 9368 3080 or padis@dpird.wa.gov.au.
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