Identification

• Many species of ants are attracted to citrus trees, and they may provide protection against more serious pests. Ants range in size from 1/10 inch to 1/2 inch and are usually harmless.
  
  

Harmful Ants

• Two varieties of red ants, the Texas leafcutter (Atta texana) and the red imported fire ant (Solenopsis invicta), are harmful and even fatal to citrus tree populations if left untreated, particularly in Florida and Texas. Both species are reddish-brown to black in color, approximately 1/10 inch to 1/5 inch in length, and build nests near the base of the tree. The Texas leafcutter can be identified by the damage it causes, which includes large sections of missing foliage, while the red imported fire ant bores holes into the bark, leaving the tree susceptible to disease.
  
  

Control

• The presence of most species of ants near citrus trees requires no response. Red imported fire ants and Texas leafcutters may be treated with an insecticide or an application of oil. To prevent red imported fire ants from infesting young trees, the University of Florida IFAS Extension recommends the use of tree wraps on the lower trunks.