How Fast Can Ants Fly?
WouterThousands of different species of ants run at different speeds, but there are a few that are among the fastest in the world. Some rely on unique physical adaptations and others on special abilities.
The fastest ant on the planet, the Saharan silver ant, has a lean physique and a galloping gait. It has been measured to run at 855 millimetres per second, or 108 times its own body length per second.
Silver ants are also known to be highly adapted specialists. They have shorter legs than other ants and take more steps per second. They are able to scavenge for small animals and insects in the Sahara. They also have a special silvery coat of hairs on their body surface that reflects sunlight. This is how they are able to stay cool.
Another famous insect speed record is set by the deer botfly, which is reputed to be able to fly at a speed of 1,287 km per hour. This is a remarkable feat. It’s hard to believe, but it’s actually possible.
Another ant, the fire ant, has been clocked to run at a speed of nine body lengths per second. This is the same speed as a human walking 30 miles per hour. The heart of an ant is a muscular tube that pumps colorless blood from the head to the body. It also contains intake valves and an aorta that opens in the head.
The fastest land insect, the cheetah, runs at up to 110 kilometres per hour, or 70 miles per hour. However, most animals seek shelter during the hottest parts of the day.
