In what scenario is baiting most effective for controlling pharaoh ants?

Baiting is most effective for controlling pharaoh ants when used alone because these ants are particularly cautious and can become wary of chemical sprays or other methods if they sense a threat. When only bait is used, the ants can safely forage and take the bait back to their colony. This method allows for a more natural approach to control, as the bait can be transported back to the queen and other members of the colony, leading to a larger scale reduction of the population.

This scenario is advantageous because pharaoh ants often avoid direct contact with substances they perceive as harmful, meaning that if they encounter chemical sprays or traps, they might alter their behavior and avoid the treated areas altogether. Thus, baiting alone can be more strategic as it encourages the ants to engage with the product without the stress of repellent chemicals, ultimately working toward eliminating the colony more effectively.