Ants

Ants are eusocial insects of the family Formicidae and, along with the related wasps and bees, belong to the order Hymenoptera. Ants evolved from wasp-like ancestors in the Cretaceous period, about 140 million years ago, and diversified after the rise of flowering plants. More than 12,500 of an estimated total of 22,000 species have been classified. They are easily identified by their elbowed antennae and the distinctive node-like structure that forms their slender waists.

Characteristics

Ants form colonies that range in size from a few dozen predatory individuals living in small natural cavities to highly organised colonies that may occupy large territories and consist of millions of individuals. Larger colonies consist of various castes of sterile, wingless females, most of which are workers (ergates), as well as soldiers (dinergates) and other specialised groups. Nearly all ant colonies also have some fertile males called "drones" and one or more fertile females called "queen ants". The colonies are described as superorganisms because the ants appear to operate as a unified entity, collectively working together to support the colony.

Behavior and ecology

Ant societies have division of labour, communication between individuals, and an ability to solve complex problems. These parallels with human societies have long been an inspiration and subject of study. Many human cultures make use of ants in folk medicine, food, and rituals. Some species are valued in their role as biological pest control agents. Their ability to exploit resources may bring ants into conflict with humans, however, as they can damage crops and invade buildings. Some species, such as the red imported fire ant, are regarded as invasive species, establishing themselves in areas where they have been introduced accidentally.

Ants and humans

Ants and their larvae are used as food in different parts of the world. They are also used in traditional medicine, and are the subject of scientific research for their social behaviour and roles in ecosystems. Ants are found on all continents except Antarctica, and have diverse interactions with humans and the environment.

See also

• List of ant genera
• Ant colony optimization algorithms
• Ant mill
• Ant navigation
• Ant-plant interactions
• Ant venom
• Ant war
• Antkeeping
• Myrmecology

External links

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