Also known as Larger Citronella Ant, Citronella Ant, Yellow Foundation Ant
Larger yellow ants spend virtually their entire lives underground, tending herds of subterranean aphids and mealybugs on plant roots for sweet honeydew. When their nest galleries are disturbed or workers are crushed, they emit a distinct, pleasant citronella fragrance synthesized from defense glands. Winged queens and males often emerge in huge mating swarms around building foundations and basements during late summer or warm winter thaws, where they are frequently mistaken for termites.
SubterraneanColonialAromatic
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—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
Root Aphids
Root Mealybugs
Predators
Northern Flicker
Ground Beetles
Spiders
ThreatsPesticide applications, excessive soil disruption, and deep paving
HabitatsDeciduous woodlands, pastures, lawns, and soil along foundation walls
Life spanWorkers live 1–3 years; queens can live over 10 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
FamilyFormicidae
SpeciesAcanthomyops interjectus
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
Low
Moderate
High
Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
Scent Test: Gently crushing a deceased worker releases an unmistakable citrus or citronella fragrance.
Termite Distinction: Tell winged swarmers apart from termites by their pinched waists and elbowed antennae.
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