What Do Ants Depend On?
WouterVarious ant mutualisms are critical for structuring ecosystems. Most mutualisms relate to dispersal and defense, and phenological timing is critical for some obligate mutualisms.
Several ant species are pollinators. Some of these species create healthy habitats while others may be pests. Some of these species are also decomposers. Some ants are also beneficial predators of other insects. Ants also serve as a vital menu item for creatures such as giant anteaters.
In addition to pollination, many ants also provide food. They are omnivores and consume a variety of foods. They feed on fatty eliaosome and plant parts, including seeds. They also feed on honeydew produced by insects. Some ants build mounds in parks or lawns.
Among the most famous of all ants are army ants. They are large, strong, and have specialized mandibles for crushing tough food. They march to find food, and stop when waiting for pupae to emerge as adults.
These ants can have over 700,000 individuals in a single colony. These ants are also known for their remarkable nesting skills. They create living nests that link their legs together. They also have specialized mandibles for crushing large objects.
In addition to these workers, there is a single queen in the colony. She is responsible for the health of the colony and the young. During the colony’s life cycle, a new queen will mate with a male. She then cloisters herself inside the nest for several weeks.
Workers will then feed the new queen and the young. They will also take care of the colony’s resources. These workers include those that gather insects and seed, and those that carry liquid food back to the nest.
