Ant

Natural Habitat

Ants can be found in almost every terrestrial habitat on Earth. They build nests in diverse locations including underground, in trees, under rocks, or within decaying wood.

Diet & Feeding

Ants are omnivorous, with their diet varying greatly by species. They typically eat nectar, seeds, fungi, other insects, and sometimes scavenge on dead animals or human food scraps.

Behavior Patterns

Ants are highly social insects that live in structured colonies with a queen, workers, and sometimes soldiers. They exhibit complex behaviors such as building intricate nests, foraging for food collectively, defending their territory, and communicating through pheromones.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include potential bites or stings from some species (e.g., fire ants), which can cause discomfort or allergic reactions. They can also be considered pests when they invade homes or gardens. Benefits include aeration of soil, seed dispersal, pest control (by preying on other insects), and decomposition of organic matter, contributing to ecosystem health.

Identified on: 9/9/2025