Can Ants Drink Milk?
WouterDuring the development stage of ants, the pupae secrete a large quantity of liquid. The fluid contains degraded products of the pupa’s old cuticle. The fluid is also rich in protein. Ants use this liquid to survive and grow. It is similar to molting fluids produced by other insects.
Ants can digest milk and sugar. They can also digest plant matter and animal matter. But they don’t like pure milk. Milk contains carbohydrates, proteins, and lactose. The lactose in milk can be lethal for ants. Among other reasons, lactose can cause bloating and diarrhea.
Milk is also highly proteinaceous. The ant diet is important for growth. Unless protein content increases, ant larvae won’t produce new larvae.
Ants are very strong. They can digest food, but they don’t have nipples. They don’t have the enzymes required to break down complex proteins.
During the first four days of life, ant larvae depend on fluid to survive. Without fluid, the larvae will drown and die. The fluid provides the nutrients the larvae need to grow.
Ants can also drink milk powder, but they prefer the sweeter version. This milk powder contains a high amount of protein, which ants need to develop. It also contains sugar, and is a good source of nutrients.
There are several species of ants that have been known to drink milk. One of them is the clonal raider ant. Another is the Emperor penguin. In each of the five major ant subfamilies, ant milk is found.
