Ants are generally considered a nuisance when they are found in large numbers in living spaces and gardens. They like to attack food and supplies in the household and in the kitchen. They are not directly harmful in the garden or in plant cultivation. However, plants can be damaged by aphids, which are bred by the ants for their own food (milking). Because the ants rummage the soil heavily, the plant roots lose direct contact with the soil and growth is severely impaired.

Ants do not transmit diseases. One exception is the PHARAO ANT. She has been shown to transmit germs such as salmonella, streptococci and staphylococci to food, surfaces or objects. In hospitals, this can lead to serious hygiene problems.