Camponotus sexguttatus
(Fabricius, 1793)
Six-spotted Carpenter Ant
Camponotus sexguttatus is a Neotropical carpenter ant native to South America, Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The has established in Florida, Hawaii, and Arizona, where it has been documented as a 'tramp ant' in urban environments. It belongs to the diverse Camponotus, which includes over 1,000 species of wood-nesting ants. Multiple have been described across its native range.



Pronunciation
How to pronounce Camponotus sexguttatus: //ˌkæmpəˈnoʊtəs sɛksˌɡʌˈteɪtəs//
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Habitat
In its native Neotropical range, inhabits tropical and subtropical forests. In invaded areas, has been observed in urban backyard environments, where it occurs alongside other tramp ant .
Distribution
Native to South America, Central America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. established in Florida, Hawaii, and Arizona, USA. GBIF records indicate presence across much of Brazil and the conterminous 48 United States.
Human Relevance
Documented as an in urban areas of Florida, Hawaii, and Arizona. Listed among 'tramp ant' that have become in disturbed urban environments. Specific economic or structural impacts not detailed in available sources.
More Details
Subspecies diversity
Numerous have been described: Camponotus sexguttatus albotaeniolatus, antiguanus, basirectus, biguttatus, decorus, fusciceps, montserratensis, ornatus, perturbans, sexguttatus (nominate), and unitaeniatus.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- Wikipedia
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- NCBI Taxonomy
- During Quarantine, an Entomologist Takes a Closer Look at a New Invasive Ant Species
- Carpenter ants here and there: Camponotus spp. — Bug of the Week
- Ant bodyguards here and there: Odorous house ants, Tapinoma sessile, and carpenter ants, Camponotus — Bug of the Week
- Big black ants in the home: Carpenter ants, Camponotus spp. — Bug of the Week
- The “silky-bellied humpbacked” ant | Beetles In The Bush
- Bichos Argentinos #10 – Friday Formicine | Beetles In The Bush
- Geographic Distribution of Camponotus sexguttatus (Hymenoptera, Formicidae), a Neotropical Carpenter Ant Spreading in Florida