Report
Odorous House Ant (Tapinoma sessile Say)
Extension bulletin (Washington State University. Extension), 1550E, Washington State University Extension
04/2026
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.7273/000008132
Abstract
The odorous house ant, Tapinoma sessile (Say), is a temperate ant species that infests urban areas and shows invasive-like characteristics within its native range. It is named for the peculiar odor produced in the anal glands, which many describe as smelling of rotten coconut or blue cheese. Found throughout North America, odorous house ants (OHAs) have the widest geographic range and greatest ecological tolerance of any ant species within the region. While OHAs do not cause damage to structures, they are a very common, significant nuisance pest that can affect household food items and infest homes and buildings.
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Details
- Title
- Odorous House Ant (Tapinoma sessile Say)
- Creators
- Sam Dilday (Author) - Washington State UniversityRichard Stanly Zack (Author) - Washington State University, Department of EntomologyTodd Aaron Murray (Author) - Washington State University, WSU Extension ANR
- Academic Unit
- Publications, WSU Extension
- Series
- Extension bulletin (Washington State University. Extension); 1550E
- Publisher
- Washington State University Extension; Pullman, Washington
- Identifiers
- 99901371699601842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Report