Ant

Scientific Name: Formicidae

Order & Family: Hymenoptera, Formicidae

Size: Typically 2 to 20 mm, but some species can be larger.

Ant

Natural Habitat

Ants are found in nearly all terrestrial habitats worldwide, from forests and deserts to urban environments. They build nests in soil, wood, under rocks, or within structures.

Diet & Feeding

Ants have diverse diets, including nectar, seeds, fungi, other insects, and scavenging on dead animals or human food scraps. Their diet depends heavily on the species.

Behavior Patterns

Ants are highly social insects, living in colonies that can range from a few dozen to millions. They exhibit complex behaviors such as division of labor, communication through pheromones, foraging trails, and nest building. Most species are active during the day, but some are nocturnal.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Some ant species (e.g., fire ants) can deliver painful stings or bites, which may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. They can also become household pests, contaminating food or damaging property. Benefits: Ants play crucial roles in ecosystems, including soil aeration, seed dispersal, nutrient cycling, and preying on other insects, which can help control pest populations.

Identified on: 9/6/2025