How Do Ants Create Anthills?
WouterAmong the many species of insects, ants create anthills, a type of mounded nest. They are used to protect the ants from predators and other hazards. They are also used as nurseries for the young. Anthills may be built under logs, stones, or on stubs.
Most anthills are built by ants that live in colonies underground. They dig underground tunnels with jaw-like mouth parts. The tunnels allow the ants to travel, search for food, and ferry around their young. These tunnels provide added protection for the ants, and they are also used for the ants to escape predators.
Some ants build low hills out of dirt, and some create towering clay anthills. Some ants build their homes near trees, while others build their nests inside walls. The nests are made from a combination of tree resin, soil, and sticks.
During the day, workers move their larvae and soil out of the tunnels, into the warmer chambers. At night, they move the larvae to the lower chambers. This provides a better climate for the queen.
They are built in the moist soil and are protected from predators. They are also built in easy-to-excavate soil. These structures provide more protection for the ants, which helps the colony to be more successful.
In addition to protecting ants, anthills provide a place for the queen to lay eggs. Anthills are built in the direction of the sun. This provides the best climate for the queen to lay eggs.
