Biotica Research Today | Volume 8 Issue 2 | Pages: 24-26 | Doi : 10.54083/BRT/08.02.26/24-26

Popular Article

OPEN ACCESS | Published on : 18-Feb-2026

Unseen Invaders: The Evolutionary Success and Agricultural Implications of the Pharaoh Ant, Monomorium pharaonis (L.)

Nithisha S.
• Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, JSA College of Agriculture and Technology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Avatti, Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu (606 108), India


• Pirithiraj U.
• Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, JSA College of Agriculture and Technology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Avatti, Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu (606 108), India

Ambethgar V.
• Dept. of Agricultural Entomology, JSA College of Agriculture and Technology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), Avatti, Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu (606 108), India

Abstract

The Pharaoh ant, Monomorium pharaonis (L.) is an invasive species of global significance, causing major medical, economic and agricultural problems. It is a highly successful evolutionary model based on polygynous colony structure, cryptic nesting habits, rapid reproduction and highly efficient foraging. This is primarily linked to its indoor pest status but it is also found in greenhouses and storage facilities and causes damaging ecological ripples in agricultural systems. In contrast to beneficial ants living in the soil, M. pharaonis provides little benefit to soil aeration, but instead disrupts crops and is a possible vector for pathogens. In this review, a detailed description of its morphology, distribution and biology is provided and its ecological impact and current management approaches in public health and agricultural environments are discussed.

How to Cite

Nithisha, S., Pirithiraj, U., Ambethgar, V., 2026. Unseen Invaders: The Evolutionary Success and Agricultural Implications of the Pharaoh Ant, Monomorium pharaonis (L.). Biotica Research Today 8(2), 24-26. DOI: 10.54083/BRT/08.02.26/24-26.

Keywords

Agricultural pest, Invasive species, Monomorium pharaonis, Pest management

References

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