How Important Are Ants?
WouterAmong the many insects on Earth, ants are the most successful. Their numbers are so great that they outnumber all other individual animals combined. They account for about 20 percent of the world’s biomass.
They are essential to the ecosystem, and help aerate the soil. They also contribute to the decomposition of plant matter. They allow oxygen to travel deep into the soil, and also allow water to get to the roots of plants.
They also eat a wide variety of animals. They have an excellent sense of smell, which helps them find food. They are also good indicators of environmental health. They communicate with each other through chemical messages.
They also play a significant role in the ecological restoration of the planet. They can be used to monitor the effectiveness of different restoration efforts.
They have a strong jaw and elbowed antennae. They are also very intelligent. They can learn very quickly. They are also able to recognise their own colony. This can help them decide on an appropriate action.
They are also very good at taking care of dead insects. They keep the ecosystem free of dead organisms. They are also good at scavenging food. They eat a variety of animals, including spiders, termites, and ticks.
Ants are also a great source of food for many other animals. They are good at cleaning up leftovers from other animals. They also help to produce healthy topsoil. They can lift objects that are over 20 times their own weight.
