Predation of Captive Reptiles in Southern California by the Introduced Argentine Ant, Linepithema humile
Assoc Reptilian Amphibian Vet 7[3]:4-5 Winter'97 In My Experience (unrefereed material) 5 Refs

- Exotic ants have been introduced by humans to nearly every continent and island in the world. The Argentine ant, Linepithema humile, has become an ecological pest worldwide and in places where this species has been introduced, the ant has displaced native ant species and even previous ant invaders. In the last ten years the Argentine ant has become one of the most serious household pests in southern California and recently it has become a problem for captive reptile collections as well. Because Argentine ants seem to be attracted primarily to water, feces and shed skin within reptile enclosures, all enclosures within the range of this ant should have adequate safeguards. The most effective means of protecting smaller reptile cages is by either putting the entire cage in a pan of water or resting the cage on legs which are submersed in water. Boric acid or products containing boric acid have been used effectively as barriers between ants and cages, but the ants often find a way around the chemical. The most effective means of protecting larger reptile facilities is to spray pesticides such as diazonin around the yard where the ants normally live. Spraying the walls of the building where the reptiles are kept seems to keep the ants from entering in hot weather when they seem to be the most problematic. The pesticide only lasts for a few weeks and needs to be regularly reapplied. Pesticides should be used only in cases of severe infestation or as a last measure as they harm native insects and possibly other native species. If captive reptile cages are swarmed, the ants will normally be searching for water, so the reptiles themselves may remain safe for a short period. Animals should be removed from swarmed enclosures immediately and any ant which may be attached to the animal should be removed. Even smaller herp species can endure envenomation from one or two ants, but small animals with 25 or more ant stings normally die within 24 hours. Larger species (>150 grams) may endure full swarming, but may not eat or even move for several days afterwards. Some species such as Nephrurus and Anolis appear to succumb very easily to envenomation from the Argentine ant and usually die after only being stung five or ten times. Unfortunately, the author is unaware of any known treatment for ant envenomation in reptiles.