How Much Does Ants Have in the World?
WouterPreviously, scientists estimated the world’s ant population by comparing the numbers of different ants to the world’s total insect population. But the estimates varied. The new study has a “bottom-up” approach that is likely more accurate.
Using a variety of sources, including ants caught in traps and leaf litter samples, researchers estimate the number of ants in the world. The total number of ants may be higher than previously thought.
For instance, ants in tropical forests may have more than a million ants per acre, according to new calculations. This is two to 20 times more ants than were previously estimated.
Ants’ muscles are thicker than those of larger animals. They are also capable of producing more force per milligram. The muscles also have a bigger cross-sectional area.
The ant is an important ecosystem engineer, dispersing seeds for plants and insects. They also help to recycle organic matter and aerate the soil.
Some ants are also biological control agents. Others are considered pests. However, the majority of ants create healthy habitats.
The average ant weighs just over 60 milligrams. This is one millionth the size of a human, making it a key player in the ecosystem.
There are over 12,000 species of ants. The most common species are the army ant, which is known for its hunting abilities. It may prey on small mammals and reptiles. It also builds extensive traps from plant fiber.
In addition to their hunting skills, ants are excellent pollinators. They also contribute to the soil’s health by breaking up dead vegetation and decomposing plant matter.
