Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

What pests should flooring areas be checked for?

1. Ants, rodents, and spiders

2. Flies, cockroaches, and ants

3. Termites and powder post beetles

4. Mice and rats

The correct answer is: Flies, cockroaches, and ants

The focus when checking flooring areas for pests should include a range of common household and structural pests that can thrive in such environments. Flies, cockroaches, and ants are particularly notable in this context. Flies are often attracted to areas where organic waste accumulates, including under appliances or in kitchen areas, making flooring a potential hotspot for their presence. Cockroaches, being nocturnal scavengers, can easily be found in cracks and crevices around flooring areas, especially if there is access to food and moisture. Ants also frequently travel along the ground seeking food sources, particularly in kitchens and pantries, making flooring inspection crucial. While the other choices also mention pests that can be found in and around buildings, they do not focus on those that are specifically inclined to inhabit or travel across flooring areas as much as flies, cockroaches, and ants do. Termites and powder post beetles tend to be more associated with wood elements rather than flooring surfaces, although they can affect structural integrity. Mice and rats primarily inhabit wall voids, attics, and crawl spaces but may venture onto flooring surfaces. Thus, the combination of flies, cockroaches, and ants represents a more comprehensive group of pests that are commonly associated with