Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

For optimal effectiveness, where should sticky traps be placed for ants?

1. In a single location

2. In a variety of locations along their foraging routes

3. Near their nest only

4. In dark areas away from food sources

The correct answer is: In a variety of locations along their foraging routes

Placing sticky traps in a variety of locations along the ants' foraging routes is crucial for optimal effectiveness. Ants operate along established trails as they search for food, water, and nesting materials. By positioning traps along these routes, they are more likely to encounter the traps while traveling. This strategy maximizes the likelihood of capturing individual ants, disrupting their foraging behavior, and providing insights into their activity levels and movement patterns. Other options are less effective because placing traps in a single location would limit the chance of catching ants that may be traveling elsewhere. Positioning traps only near the nest would not account for ants that are foraging far from their nest, while placing them in dark areas away from food sources would likely deter ants from accessing the traps since they are less likely to traverse areas without resources. Hence, spreading traps along the foraging routes captures the most data and provides better control over ant populations.