Western Black Carpenter Ant

Camponotus modoc

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Camponotus modoc: //ˌkæmpəˈnoʊtəs ˈmoʊˌdɔk//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Camponotus modoc casent0005347 profile 1 by April Nobile. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Camponotus modoc casent0005347 label 1 by wikipedia. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Camponotus modoc casent0005347 dorsal 1 by April Nobile. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Camponotus modoc P1220726a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Camponotus modoc P1240188a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.
Camponotus modoc P1220746a by xpda. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Camponotus modoc, or Western Black Carpenter Ant, is a large black ant that nests in dead wood and structures, potentially causing structural damage.

Physical Characteristics

Black with dark red legs; workers range in size from 7 to 13 mm (0.28 to 0.51 in).

Identification Tips

Known as the Western Black Carpenter Ant; distinguished from C. pennsylvanicus by range and coloration.

Habitat

Occurs in conifer forests and wood structures, making nests in dead wood.

Distribution

Mountains of western US and southwestern Canada.

Ecosystem Role

Acts as a pest by nesting in wood structures and can cause structural damage.

Economic Impact

Can damage homes by nesting and tunneling through wood.

Similar Taxa

Tags

  • Camponotus modoc
  • Western Black Carpenter Ant
  • carpenter ants
  • pests
  • insects