Ant

Natural Habitat

Widely varied, including forests, grasslands, deserts, urban areas, and indoors. Found in soil, under rocks, in wood, and in human structures.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous; diet varies greatly by species. Includes insects, seeds, nectar, fungi, and household food scraps.

Behavior Patterns

Highly social insects living in colonies with a queen, workers, and males. Exhibit complex behaviors such as foraging, nest building, defense, and division of labor. Communicate using pheromones.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include painful bites or stings (e.g., fire ants, carpenter ants), contamination of food, and structural damage to homes (e.g., carpenter ants). Benefits include aeration of soil, pest control (predation on other insects), and seed dispersal.

Identified on: 10/7/2025