Welcome to the Hawaiʻi Ant Lab
The Hawaiʻi Ant Lab, a program of the University of Hawai‘i Pacific Cooperative Studies Unit, is dedicated to increasing knowledge about invasive ant biology, management, and eradication.

The Department of Agriculture’s doors have reopened to the public. The Hawaiʻi Ant Lab staff are here to assist with the following services:
- identify ant samples
- offer treatment advice
- conduct farm site visits to develop a treatment plan
- give virtual presentations to your organization, community group, or school
What We Do

Research
We study invasive ants and develop new methods to manage them. This is an ongoing process that makes HAL the leading agency on LFA management strategies in the world.

Extension
We educate stakeholders on preventing the spread of invasive ants and provide best management strategies based on our research.

Operations
We survey ports of entry, green waste facilities, nurseries, and other high risk areas for invasive ant species, as well as participate in LFA eradication efforts throughout the State.

Ant Management Class
Once a month, Hawaiʻi Ant Lab conducts a FREE half-day class for residents and other interested persons. This class covers ant management basics from theory to practice and includes sessions on Little Fire Ant biology, how to survey, mixing and using gel baits, and pretty much everything you want to know about managing Little Fire Ants around your home.
Currently, we are holding the class on-line through Zoom on the last Thursday of every month. Register to obtain the Zoom link.
Connect with us!
We are excited to share that you can now connect with us on social media! Follow us to learn more tips and tricks on how to prevent, survey, and control for Little Fire Ants and other pest ant species. Check us out by clicking on one of the profiles below:
Little Fire Ants: A Global Perspective
Have you ever wondered what the deal is with Little Fire Ants (LFA)? Where did they come from? Where are they going? What’s all the fuss (they’re just ants anyway, right)? Why are these Little F****g Ants EVERYWHERE and I didn’t even know?! WHY CAN’T THERE BE A SIMPLER WAY TO CONTROL THEM FOR HEAVEN’S…
Is your Granular Bait Fresh?
Antixx and Firefighter are both granular baits recommended by the Hawaii Ant Lab (HAL) to manage Little Fire Ants (LFA). Recently, we discovered that some of these products have been sitting on the shelf for too long and/or have compromised seals causing them to go rancid. LFA are picky eaters, so if the bait is…
Make a Donation
Your donation will contribute to tackling the invasive ant issues faced by Hawaiʻi by supporting our research, extension, and field operation programs.