The Queen ants lives for as long as fifteen years and the workers may live as long as six years. During the summer, the winged males and winged fertile queens take flight and mate. After mating the males die and the queens either shed or bite off their wings. The Queen attempts to start a colony by first finding a suitable nest site, laying eggs, then raising the young until they mature into mature adults. A nest will steadily develop over several years.
Some species are winged.
Found in damp or humid areas where mould will grow which is their primary food. Generally associated with damp books and food packaging who starch sizing and glues readily support mould growth. Also found in other mould growing areas such as around bath taps, windows, new houses on plastered walls supporting mould growth. They are commonly found on wooden pallets which are damp and become infested with mould. Warm areas ie.