How Old Can Ants Be?
WouterUnlike most insects, ants do not have a juvenile stage before they become adults. Instead, they go directly from larval stage to adult stage.
The life span of ants depends on many factors. In general, ant lifespans can range from a few weeks to thirty years. The lifespan of individual ants is determined by the species, the caste, and the role that ant plays within the colony.
Almost every ant species has a queen. The queen is responsible for the health and reproductive success of the colony. Queens can live up to 30 years in the wild and may live longer in captivity. Queens also typically have longer lifespans than workers.
The lifespan of worker ants can range from a few weeks to a few years. Workers tend to do most of the work to support the colony. They take on different roles as they mature. They forage, defend the nest, and store food. Workers can also leave the colony to find food.
Some species of ants live for seven to eight years. They are also known to live as long as fifteen years. Workers can also live longer if they stay in the colony. A common species of American ant, Pheidole dentata, lives longer than most other insects.
Carpenter ants, like the black garden ant, are known to live a long time. Their diet includes insect parts and honeydew. Carpenter ants also tend to be non-aggressive. They may burrow into wood beams to construct a nest. They also eat extra-floral nectar.
