How Long Do Ants Live?
WouterDepending on the species, the lifespan of ants can vary. Some ants can live for years in a safe environment, while others only live for a few weeks. The lifespan of an ant depends on a number of factors, including the species of ant, its caste, and its environment.
Queen ants typically live longer than worker ants. They are responsible for the health and survival of the colony. They also produce more queens to help the colony spread. Queens can live for several decades.
Male ants have the shortest lifespans. Their lifespan is usually only a few weeks. They typically die shortly after mating, but some species of ants, such as carpenter ants, can live up to several years. They die from diseases, starvation, or predators.
Worker ants are the main food providers for the colony. They are protected by their colony, but they will die when their food runs out. Their lifespan can range from four to five months during the active phase, and up to two years if left alone. They hibernate through the winter.
Some species of ants only live underground or inside wood. Others, like pavement ants, live in human homes. The lifespan of the worker ants in these colonies ranges from three to six months. They are killed by birds, other insects, and disease.
Depending on the colony, queen ants can live for years. Their lifespan is dependent on the colony’s environment and the queen’s role. Larger colonies, with more queens, have better protection from disease.
